Setting up a baby first aid kit is an essential step to ensure new parents are prepared for minor injuries, illnesses, or emergencies happening to your little one. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a well-stocked and organised baby first aid kit:
1. Choose a storage box
Ideally, use a container with compartments for easy organisation. Choose a waterproof, durable, and portable container for easy preservation. Keep your first-aid kit in a container with a locked lid and out of reach from your kids.
2. Checklist of basic first-aid kit essentials
If you’ve never set up a first-aid kit before, or if you’re not familiar with first-aid, here’s a list of basic essentials you should have at home at all times:
- Adhesive bandages (various sizes) for small cuts and scrapes
- Sterile gauze pads for larger wounds
- Adhesive tape to secure gauze or bandages
- Antiseptic wipes or solution for cleaning wounds
- Antibiotic ointment to prevent infections in minor cuts and scrapes
- Alcohol wipes for disinfecting surfaces and objects
- Tweezers for removing splinters or debris
- Safety scissors essential for cutting bandages, gauze, or clothing in emergencies
- Instant cold packs for bumps and bruises
- List of emergency phone number
- Up to date first-aid kit manual
3. Baby specific medications
- Infant acetaminophen and ibuprofen for fevers or pain relief (always follow age-appropriate dosage instructions)
- Baby thermometer (digital or rectal) to check your baby’s temperature
- Nasal aspirator (suction device) and saline drops or spray for clearing baby’s nasal passages
- Baby nail clipper for trimming baby’s nails
- Medicine dropper for administering liquid medication
- Gas drops to ease gas discomfort or colic for your baby
- Electrolyte solution for rehydration in case of vomiting or diarrhoea
- Sterile eye wash or eye drops in case of irritants in the eyes
- Hydrocortisone cream (1%) for bug bites or skin irritation (consult a paediatrician before use)
- Baby-safe antibiotic ointment to prevent infection on minor cuts, scrapes, or burnt
- Calamine lotion generally safe to use for soothing itches from bug bites, poison ivy, or mild rashes
- Antihistamines (benadryl, zyrtec, claritin) for managing allergic reactions such as hives, itchy skin, or runny nose from seasonal allergies. Consult with your paediatrician before giving any antihistamines, as certain types are not recommended for young babies. They can guide you on dosage and appropriateness for your child’s age
- Teething gel or teething rings to help soothe teething discomfort
- Diaper rash cream to treat diaper rash
4. Regularly check and update your first-aid kit
After completing your kit, make it a habit to check it regularly. Restock any missing supplies and replace expired items. Ensure that babysitters and other caregivers know its location and how to use its contents.
Always consult a pediatrician before using any medication or topical treatments on your baby. For babies under 6 months, special caution is needed when introducing any medications or treatments.
Read: First-time mom? Here are 26 essential baby products to buy