Cleaning a baby’s ears, eyes and nose

By WANGECI KANYEKI

Care should be taken when cleaning your baby’s ears, eyes and nose so as not to cause damage to these fragile, but vital organs.

Ear: Usually, the ear is self-cleaning. Clean by wiping the baby’s outer ear with a slightly damp cotton swab. The wax traps dust and dirt that would otherwise enter directly into the ear canal.  Trying to remove wax by inserting cotton buds, swabs or fingers is dangerous and could damage the baby’s eardrum.  If you are concerned about accumulating wax it is best to inform the doctor who is able to loosen it safely and give you home remedies on how to manage it.

Nasal aspirator

Nose: The nose is self-cleaning as well and does not require any special cleaning.  If baby is coming up with a cold and has discharge it is best to wipe only the outer part of the nose.  Avoid probing and inserting cotton swabs, twisted tissues, or your fingernails to clean the inside of the nose as you can damage the soft membranes. If baby’s nose is congested, speak to your doctor to prescribe a nasal drop, which decongests the nose. Also ask for a demonstration on how to safely suck it out using a nasal aspirator if need be.

Eyes: Use a sterile cotton swab dipped in warm clean water to clean baby’s tiny delicate eyes.  Used a swab once wiping the eye from the inside part near the nose to the outside. Any excessive continuous discharge should be reported to the doctor to check for infections.