One question parents often ask is: “What first aid supplies do I need at home for my baby?!”. So, we’ve put together a handy list below. Don’t forget, first aid is exactly what the name suggests, FIRST aid. Make sure to seek professional medical help if you feel it is necessary.

 This list is for a personal home kit.

1. Disposable Gloves

We recommend including disposable gloves in your fist aid kit for protection against infection for both you and your child. Ideally, sterile gloves should be used.

2. Antiseptic Wipes

Any first aid kit should include a pack of alcohol free antiseptic wipes. Antiseptic wipes are used to clean cuts and grazes to prevent any infection.

3. Saline Pods and Eyewash

Saline pods are ideal for wound cleansing and topical irrigation of the eye.

4. Bandages

It is recommended to have an assortment of bandages in your child’s first aid kit. Crepe bandages (shown above) can be used for support or holding a dressing in place. Tubular bandages are helpful when a child has strained a joint and needs extra support. You can make a sling with triangular bandages.

5. Non-Adhesive Wound Pads

These pads are absorbent, and won’t stick to the tissue. They’re ideal for use as a primary dressing for lightly draining wounds.

6. Slings

We recommend including a couple of slings in your child’s first aid kit. A sling can also be made from a triangular bandage.

7. Haemorrhage Control Bandages

We recommend you include an assortment of haemorrhage control bandages, from small to large in your child’s first aid kit

8. Finger/Toe Bandages

We all know how painful stubbing a toe can be. Including finger/toe bandages in your child’s first aid kit can help protect these injuries and are specially made for fingers/toes.

9. Plasters

An assortment of plasters of all sizes is a key staple item in any first aid kit. Ideal for minor cuts, blisters and sore spots.

10. Steristrips

Steristrips are wound closure strips that keep wound edges secured together.

11. Antiseptic Crème

Antiseptic crème or spray can be applied to cuts or grazes after cleaning which will help prevent infection.

12. Medication

We recommend you include a range of medication in your child’s first aid kit, including Calpol, Liquid Suppositories and antihistamines. Always check the best before dates and restock when needed.

13. Burn Gel

Burn gels can be useful for any minor burns. However, it is recommended by the HSE that burn gel is only used if you are not near cool, running water as that is the best treatment for minor burns.

14. Thermometer

We recommend using a digital or electronic thermometer as these are most the accurate. Always place the thermometer under the armpit for children under the age of 5.

Check out more from the NHS, check out here: NHS First Aid Information

Emergency Contacts: Call 112 or 999

Learn all about Baby First Aid at our full-day Antenatal Class. We provide baby first aid a free additional component to our classes. To sign up, follow the link below.