Write an article based on this "Gather your supplies. Wash your hands. Check for infection. Wash the cord. Dry the cord."
You don't want to keep your infant waiting to be cleaned. A baby may become fussy or uncomfortable if cleaning takes too long. When you get ready to clean an infant's belly button, get your supplies ready ahead of time. You will need the following: A large towel for your baby to lie on. A sponge, cotton swabs, a bowl of warm water, and baby soap. Babies are prone to infection. Wash your hands under warm water using soap before you begin the process of cleaning your baby's belly button. Wash your hands for about 20 seconds. Make sure to dry your hands off using a clean cloth or paper towel. A belly button infection can be dangerous for an infant. If you notice an infection, your baby will need to see a pediatrician as soon as possible. The following are the signs of a belly button infection in a baby: Discharge around the belly button A foul smell coming from the umbilical cord Tenderness or swelling of the skin Dab a piece of cloth in warm water. Gently wipe down the umbilical cord and the surrounding area. Then, wipe down the cord with a mild cleanser. You want to keep the cord clean and dry until it falls off naturally. This keeps your baby's belly button free of infection. Do not use rubbing alcohol to clean an umbilical cord. Leaving the cord wet could result in an infection. Gently pat the cord, and the surrounding area, dry with a clean, absorbent cloth. Make sure the cord and the surrounding skin are dry to the touch.