Preparing for Parenthood
New parents need to know that keeping your baby healthy means more than feeding them good food and taking them to the doctor for regular checkups. It also means maintaining a clean, safe environment for them at home and following a regular cleaning routine.
Maintaining a clean, healthy home
Having a proper cleaning routine can go a long way to keeping your house—and your baby—happy and healthy.
Washing baby clothes, diapers and bedding
Newborns make big messes, so their laundry may require more frequent washing and special detergent for their sensitive skin.
Bathing your baby
Bathing your baby for the first time can seem daunting, but with the right steps it can be a fun and bonding experience.
Storing items safely
As your family grows, it’s important to make sure your space is as safe as possible.
Changing diapers
These tips can make the diaper-changing process easier and more efficient.
Cleaning baby bottles
Infants are extra vulnerable to germs, so it’s important to clean bottles properly.
Related articles
Infants and Toddlers
Find information on toddlers and infants, caring for your newborn, potty training, vaccination decisions, home safety and nutrition, plus tips for picky eaters.
Keeping Your Home Safe for Your Baby
The Proper Way to Store Cleaning Supplies
More resources from ACI
American Cleaning Institute: Clean First Steps
American Cleaning Institute: Packets Up! Liquid Laundry Packet Safety
American Cleaning Institute Blog: Planning for Poison Prevention
American Cleaning Institute: Cleaning is Caring Web Page
American Cleaning Institute: Bathroom Cleaning Tips
American Cleaning Institute: Kitchen Cleaning Tips
American Cleaning Institute’s Clean Bottle Guide
American Cleaning Institute: Laundry Basics
American Cleaning Institute: Cold Water Saves
American Cleaning Institute Clean First Steps Safe Storage Resource
American Cleaning Institute’s Clean First Steps Diaper Changing Resource
The development of this content was in collaboration with the American Cleaning Institute™.
Copyright © American Academy of Family Physicians
This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.
