All through the sweltering summer, we long for rain. When it finally starts pouring, it brings relief and trouble in equal measure. The drop in temperature offers much-needed relief, but the humidity, the stagnant water, and the insects, all bring their own set of health problems.
It is young children and new-born babies who are most susceptible to the ill-effects of the rainy season. So, here are some tips and tricks to help you breeze through the monsoons.
Keep humidity in check
The monsoon causes an increase in humidity, which can make babies cranky. While pacifiers and teethers can help, the real trick is to keep the air light and dry by turning on the air-conditioner or a dehumidifier. Running an air-conditioner can make your baby feel cold, so stock up on baby rugs. Clothes may not dry completely in this weather, so make sure you run a warm iron on them first.
Eat and drink responsibly
Hygiene is extremely important at all times but even more so during the rains if you have a baby in the house. Bacteria and fungi thrive during this time, so be vigilant about what you eat and drink. Stock up on baby bottles; get a few extra ones for good measure as you might want to boil them more than once. Keep baby food in the refrigerator to prevent any chance of mould from forming.
Banish bugs from the home
Ants, mosquitoes, and houseflies might all want to come indoors too and take shelter from the rain. Make sure they don’t choose your home though. Ensure there’s no stagnant water around your house. Keep everything dry and clean, especially kitchen surfaces. Other rooms – particularly baby’s room – should also be swept or mopped frequently to keep them clean and germ-free. The easiest way to keep mosquitoes at bay is by using Goodknight Patches.
Dress to keep cool
Not all days see rain during the monsoon. There could be some dry sunny days too when the temperature rises to near-summer levels. Get some light, long-sleeved cotton dresses for your baby to wear. This will protect their limbs from flies and the cotton will keep them cool. Use the dry spells to dry out your baby’s clothes and linen so that you have them ready to wear.
Keep surroundings clean
If you have a garden or plants around the house, prune them before the monsoon. Check the roads in your area and have the drains cleaned (and dispose of the debris responsibly) to prevent waterlogging. As far as possible, avoid long-term water storage at home – it can be a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and flies. Mould tends to grow wherever there’s moisture, so make sure all areas in your home are dry.
They say cleanliness is next to godliness, and at no time is this more relevant than when caring for a baby during the rains. If, despite your best efforts, mosquitoes do enter your house, use Goodknight Patches– they are baby-safe and come recommended by a pediatrician. With a little pre-monsoon planning and the right precautionary devices, you can safeguard your newborn’s health even during this difficult time of the year.