10 Outdated Baby Care Habits Parents Should Avoid, Says Pediatrician
10 Outdated Baby Care Habits Parents Should Avoid, Says Pediatrician
Bringing a baby home is exciting and emotional, but it also comes with a flood of advice—especially from elders who swear by age-old practices. While these customs are often rooted in love, many are not backed by science and can even harm a newborn.
Pediatrician Dr. Sanchi Rastogi recently highlighted 10 common practices she would never follow for her own child, urging parents to rethink them:
- Pulling or shaping the baby’s nose – Facial features develop naturally; forcing changes can cause discomfort.
- Squeezing milk from newborn nipples – This can lead to infection or inflammation.
- Wiping lips after every feed – Breastmilk doesn’t darken lips; excessive wiping can cause dryness.
- Putting oil in ears or nose – These areas clean themselves, and oil may cause infections.
- Using kajal in the eyes – Kajal may contain harmful chemicals that irritate or damage eyes.
- Giving water before 6 months – Babies get enough hydration from breastmilk or formula; early water can be dangerous.
- Offering gripe water or ghutti – These remedies lack proven benefits and may be unsafe.
- Using talcum powder – Talc particles can cause breathing issues; some may even contain asbestos.
- Applying ubtan to lighten skin – It can irritate sensitive skin and doesn’t affect natural complexion.
- Feeding honey before 1 year – Honey may contain spores that cause infant botulism.
Dr. Rastogi emphasizes that traditions should never outweigh medical guidance. Parents are encouraged to consult pediatricians and make choices that put their baby’s safety and health first.
