How Parents Can Properly Care for Babies Who Drool (Public Health Network)
Experienced mothers will notice that babies begin drooling incessantly after a few months. Without proper care, this can lead to issues like red rashes around the mouth. Therefore, learning correct care techniques is crucial for mothers.
1. Reasons for Baby Drooling
Why does a baby's saliva constantly flow out instead of being swallowed?This isn't the child's fault. It's because their oral swallowing function hasn't fully developed yet, making it difficult for them to swallow saliva. Once their swallowing function matures, they will naturally stop drooling. Another reason babies drool is that they are starting to grow their first teeth. Because their gums feel uncomfortable, they constantly lick their gums with their tongue, leading to increased saliva production and drooling.Drooling is a natural and normal phenomenon for babies. Parents needn't worry excessively; proper care is all that's required. 2. Saliva's Corrosive Properties Why does a child's saliva irritate the skin around their mouth? This is because saliva contains corrosive substances. Prolonged exposure to saliva can cause skin rashes and eczema on a baby's delicate skin.Parents should be especially careful during this drooling phase. Avoid prolonged direct contact between saliva and the skin by implementing good care practices. Help your child navigate this healthy stage, and it will naturally resolve as they grow older.
3. Wipe gently
A baby's skin is extremely delicate. When drool appears, parents should use soft tissues or small towels to gently blot it away, preventing prolonged contact with the skin. Think of it more as gently absorbing moisture rather than rubbing. Never scrub vigorously, which could irritate the skin, and never use dirty cloths or random items to wipe the baby.It's best to have two or three dedicated bibs made of pure cotton. Frequently change and wash toys, clothing, and bedding to minimize bacterial exposure.
4. Use a bib
If a child drools frequently without a bib, their chest and mouth area will become damp, increasing the risk of skin issues.Parents should provide several comfortable bibs to effectively reduce the likelihood of their child's chest skin becoming damp. Daily, gently cleanse any saliva-exposed skin with lukewarm water, ensuring it stays dry. Apply moisturizer while maintaining good ventilation to prevent rashes.