For parents, it’s natural to worry when your child ingests something they’re not supposed to. One common household item that often ends up in babies’ mouths is chapstick. In this post, we’ll address the concerns related to this incident and provide helpful tips to handle such situations.
What Happens if a Baby Eats Chapstick?
While it’s definitely not a food item, chapstick is generally non-toxic. Small amounts may not cause serious harm but could lead to minor symptoms like stomach upset or diarrhea. Nevertheless, always contact a healthcare professional or poison control center if your baby eats chapstick to ensure their safety.
Why Do Babies Put Things in Their Mouths?
Babies explore their world by putting objects in their mouths. This behavior, called mouthing, is a typical part of their development. However, it also means they could occasionally ingest something they shouldn’t.
How to Prevent Ingestion Accidents
Prevention is the best strategy when it comes to keeping non-food items out of your baby’s mouth.
Child-Proof Your Home
Ensure that small objects, especially those that can pose a choking risk or are harmful when ingested, are kept out of your child’s reach.
Supervise Playtime
While it’s impossible to watch your baby every second, it’s crucial to keep an eye on them, particularly during playtime when they’re likely to explore.
What to Do When Your Baby Eats Non-Food Items
If your child ingests something like chapstick, here are some steps to follow:
Contact a Health Professional
Call your child’s doctor or the local poison control center immediately. Provide them with as much information as you can about what was ingested.
Monitor Your Child
Watch for any signs of distress, including choking, difficulty breathing, or changes in behavior, and seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
Is Chapstick Safe for Babies?
Ingredients to Be Mindful of in Lip Balms
Several ingredients are commonly found in chapsticks and lip balms, including petroleum, beeswax, and coconut oil. Some, like beeswax and coconut oil, are generally safe. However, some others might raise concerns, especially if your baby ingests them.
Petroleum-Based Lip Balms and Chapsticks
Chapstick often contains petroleum, which is generally safe for topical use. However, it’s not meant to be ingested. If your baby has eaten chapstick or lip balm containing petroleum, monitor them closely for any signs of distress and reach out to a healthcare professional if necessary.
Non-Toxic Brands and Types
Some brands, such as Burt’s Bees and Aquaphor, have non-toxic variants. These products are usually safe for babies, provided they are used as directed and not ingested.
Can Babies Use Lip Balms or Chapsticks?
While there’s no hard and fast rule prohibiting the use of lip balms or chapsticks on babies, it’s always best to consult a pediatrician before doing so. This is because some ingredients might be harsh on a baby’s delicate skin or could pose a risk if ingested.
Alternatives to Lip Balm for Babies
For chapped lips in babies, pediatricians often recommend using a clean finger to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly. This can provide relief from dryness without the risk of your baby ingesting harmful substances.
Baby-Specific Lip Balm Products
There are some baby-specific lip balm products on the market, often formulated with milder, safer ingredients. However, even these should be kept out of reach to avoid ingestion.
Dealing with a Baby’s Ingestion of Lip Balm or Chapstick
If your baby has eaten chapstick or lip balm, it’s essential to remain calm. Monitor your child for any adverse reactions, and contact your healthcare provider or local poison control center for guidance.
How SleepBaby.org Can Help
The safety and well-being of your baby is paramount. That’s why at SleepBaby.org, we provide resources not only for promoting healthy sleep habits but also for general child care and safety. Understanding your baby’s sleep patterns can help in predicting their active times and ensuring they’re supervised during these periods to prevent accidents like ingesting non-food items.
Conclusion
While it can be alarming to discover your baby has eaten chapstick, it’s usually not a cause for panic. Ensure your home is child-proofed, always supervise playtime, and know what to do if such incidents occur. Remember, when in doubt, always reach out to a healthcare professional.