Theoretically, you shouldn’t need a baby first aid kit as infants require your constant supervision. In reality, accidents are called accidents for a reason. It’s better to have a first aid kit and never have to use it than finding yourself without one when in need. Trying to find the best baby first aid kit? So did I. I created a list of items I would like to see in the best baby first aid kit. After that, I went searching...
DadProgress Top Pick: PreparaKit: Small Travel First Aid Kit (Click For Latest Price On Amazon)
I’ve made a list of six essential things that for me would make the best baby first aid kit. All first aid kits contain a lot of stuff, but I’ll explain why I picked these six.
I’ve worked in Finland for ten years as a part-time ER doctor. A lot of different emergencies can occur, but in my experience infections, small wounds and small burns are most common.
When I became a first-time dad, I discovered that I don’t own everything needed to deal with these minor emergencies.
Antiseptic Wipes And Bandages
Wounds are not uncommon. Your baby may fall against a sharp corner of a table. If there are bigger children in the house, then your 1-year-old may get hit by a thrown toy.
If it’s not a deep wound, then you should first clean the wound. Running water is enough in most developed countries. Antiseptic wipes come in handy when in outdoors.
Minor wounds heal on their own, a bandage may be helpful. A dressing protects it from contamination. It reduces tissue movement so a wound can heal quicker. A bandage also protects your clothes if the injury is bleeding. If you’re not sure if the wound is deep or not, then it’s better to seek medical advice. Deeper wounds are treated with glue or stitches.
Burn Cream
Burns are common childhood accidents. After a burn, you should use cold (cold water for example) to relieve the pain. The best baby health care kit would now provide you with burn cream. Burn creams sooth the skin and reduce the risk of infections.
In Finland you can treat a burn of your baby at home if:
If you are not sure if it’s a superficial burn then seek medical advice.
Thermometer And Nasal Aspirator
If your baby falls ill, then use a thermometer to make sure that she doesn’t have a fewer. The best baby first aid kit should hold one.
Fever for babies is usually considered body temperature above 38 C (100 Fahrenheit). Fast digital thermometers for underarm use or tympanic thermometers are reliable enough for screening.
Younger than 6-month-olds have seldom fewer. Further tests are needed- seek medical advice.
Please don’t measure body temperature rectally. It used to be a gold standard. For home use it's not the easiest nor the safest method though (source). Imagine, how would you feel?
The best baby first aid kits should have a nasal aspirator. Babies don’t know how to breathe through the mouth. When they have a respiratory infection, their tiny noses may get stuffed up. Then it’s your disgusting job to suck the mucus out with a nasal aspirator.
Sting Relief Pads
If an insect stings your baby, then sting relief pads are a great way to sooth skin. Most people get a local reaction, and baby's skin is exceptionally tender.
Did I Find The Best Baby First Aid Kit?
I’ve not been able to find a kit that contains all these items. A thermometer and a nasal aspirator are sold separately or are included in grooming kits. All other things are included in most regular first aid kits.
You may want to buy a regular first aid kit to be prepared for every accident. Another thing to consider is size. You may want to buy a lightweight version- have it with you wherever you go with your baby.
Three First Aid Kits Reviewed
I’ve reviewed three first aid kits. One of them is a comprehensive regular first aid kit that comes with a mini kit as a bonus. The other two are lightweight versions, easy to take with you wherever you go (with a stroller:)
PreparaKit: Small Travel First Aid Kit (Check The Latest Price On Amazon)
Weight: 6,1oz (~173g)
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In U.S scissors must be less than 4 inches from "pivot point" if packed in a carry-on (source). In Europe, the same number is 2,4 inches /6 cm (source). Many airports in Europe have adopted stricter rules and are not allowing sharp objects to airplanes. It may be easier to pack your scissors to checked luggage. Many museums have strict rules about sharp objects.
To Sum Up
I've created a list of six items that in my experience are commonly needed when dealing with emergencies of babies. I was unable to find an emergency kit that holds them all. If you happen to find one then just let me know. I've reviewed three great first aid kits. Want a basic package to help you deal with emergencies of your baby? Then the Small Travel First Aid Kit by PreparaKit (check the latest price on Amazon) is probably the best baby first aid kit for you.
Last Updated on October 21, 2019