Bath time should be a good time for bonding with the baby so I want to make sure that the environment is set up for this.

Changing unit

I have been looking at changing units that have a concealed bath underneath the changer. I have seen this at a friend's place but they are not very popular in the UK. However I managed to find some online. It is good for me to have one of these as I still need to get a changer and bathing the baby should be more comfortable on a unit rather than in the bath (and in the meantime take care of my back!) The Cosatto Easi-Peasi Changing Unit Zuton fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom and it has shelves where I can store products, a few baby grows, nappies and towels. It has a drainage tube as well.

Scallywags Bath/Changing unit

Another unit that I'm looking at is Mamas & Papas - Tub Time Changing Station - Made With Lo it's only a few pounds dearer but it comes with two positions and non slip surface, a deep padded pvc changing mattress, which works on a secondary lock when lifted for added safety, with two wheels for easy manoeuvrability, Towel rail and additional wash cup.

A cheaper option would be the Scallywags Bath/Changing unit. It doesn't have any of the fancy stuff and with just one shelf you cannot use it as a storage unit but it does the job it acts both as a bath and a changer.

Hygiene for the first few weeks

At the antenatal classes I was quite confused to hear that for the first few weeks the baby doesn't need to bath and if you do it shouldn't be more than once a week in a top and tail bath (I got one with compliments of MC) :) and later on in a bath. Also, you shouldn't be using any un-natural products on the baby.

The midwife suggested gently cleaning the face with cotton wool and water and when changing nappies wiping front to back with cotton wool and water. You don't need to use anything else. Baby wipes are far too harsh for new born skin. (she said you can wipe off markers from walls with them! Handy tip for later :) ) If the baby develops dry skin or nappy rash, olive oil (or sunflower oil) should do the job as other baby creams contain far too many chemicals as does soap.

Do you have any views on this?

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This time next year it'll be my husband's first Father's Day, how exciting!

So to mark this event (aaahhh) I'm going to write something about Dad gear.  We have been looking at changing bags for fathers and this means no flowers and no pink :)

I have seen the DadGear Backpacks from Amazon. They look very spacious and can be attached to the puschair. A hammock keeps nappies in place at the top of the bag for easy access. It also comes with 2 adjustable shoulder straps.

I have also come across this website http://www.dad.info which gives advice on how dads can help their partner during and after pregnancy. It is very informative and goes through finances, registering the birth, how dads can help at the birth and useful links escpecially for first time dads.

Wish all the Dads a very Happy Father's Day.

How cool are these? Saw them in a magazine and they caught my eye since I personally like scarfs.

Skibz Dribble Bibs look like a scarf but act like a bib.

These double-layer cotton bibs have adjustable studs and are perfect for dribbling babies. They are comfotable and easy to wash plus they are very stylish!

They come in 26 patterns and colours so there are plenty to go with every outfit. I particularly like the cow print one. Amazon have a matching soother! All we need now is the cowboy hat. :)