5 very common habits that are harmful to your baby

A baby's daily life is often marked by countless seemingly harmless gestures and habits whose consequences go unnoticed. Yet the vast majority of these habits turn out to have a real impact on the infant. So what are these habits? Here are 5 very common habits that are harmful to your baby.

Napping during journeys

One habit very frequently observed in some babies is their tendency to fall asleep on the move. This common drowsiness during journeys (in the car or even in the pram) can be explained by how busy parents are. However, it is indeed a harmful habit that will have long-term repercussions for the infant.

They could end up depending on the motion of the pram or the car in order to fall asleep. Moreover, sleep deprivation in babies may increase considerably, leaving them feeling tired much of the time. It is worth knowing that naps taken on flat, stationary surfaces are more restorative than those taken on the move.

Using cotton buds for cleaning

When it comes to cleaning babies' ears, noses, or eyes, many parents reach for cotton buds. That said, even if the intention is good, this remains risky for newborns.

Indeed, this action carries a risk in that the cotton bud could push secretions deeper and injure the baby's eardrum. It is therefore recommended to simply clean the visible parts using a small ball of damp cotton wool.

Using disposable wet wipes

The use of disposable wet wipes is very common amongst many parents to keep their babies clean throughout the day. However, many of them are unaware that these wipes can cause irritation in numerous babies.

To avoid such setbacks, it is advisable to favour washable wipes and to use disposable ones only when access to water is impossible. Even though disposable wipes are very practical, they pose significant risks to babies.

Sun exposure

During short outings or certain trips, many babies are far too often exposed to the sun by their parents, even during periods of intense sunlight.

This is a harmful habit, as their skin is delicate and burns easily. In addition, allergic reactions as well as dehydration of their skin can occur. It is therefore strongly recommended to protect babies. They can be covered with wide-brimmed hats or clothing that covers their legs and arms.

Sitting and standing positions

Holding a baby upright or in a seated position is also a bad habit that adults tend to adopt with infants.

Holding in a sitting position

Holding your baby upright and on their feet is likewise one of the many habits observed in some parents. However, it is important to know that this will have long-term drawbacks, as their legs are not yet strong enough to support and bear the weight of their body.

Holding on the knees

It is also common to notice that some people get into the habit of sitting their babies upright. Such behaviour can cause their muscles to contract and may lead to them developing a fear of falling.