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For most parents, bringing a baby home marks the start of new routines, quiet cuddles, and the joy of watching their little one grow. But for families of premature babies, those born before 37 weeks of pregnancy,1. that homecoming often comes after weeks or even months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Each year, around 1 in 10 babies worldwide are born prematurely.2. Some need a short stay in special care; others require more complex medical support. Whatever the length of the journey, the NICU becomes a second home, a place filled with compassion, care, and small but powerful milestones.

Leaving that environment can bring mixed emotions: excitement to finally be together at home, but also anxiety about managing without the reassuring presence of hospital staff and machines.

This World Prematurity Day, we’re here to help make that transition a little gentler. From feeding and sleep to creating a calm space and caring for delicate skin, here’s what to expect and how to feel confident as you navigate those precious first weeks at home.

What should I know about my baby’s needs after the NICU?

Premature babies may still be developing some of the skills and systems that full-term babies master before birth. That’s why they often need a little extra care at first.

Your baby may:

  • Tire more easily during feeds3.
  • Need help maintaining body temperature4.
  • Have more delicate skin that’s prone to dryness or irritation5.
  • Prefer quieter, low-light surroundings6.

It can take time for your baby to adjust to life outside the NICU, but remember, you’re not starting over. You’re continuing the same loving care that helped them grow stronger each day in hospital, just in a new environment.

How can I create a calm and comfortable space at home for  my preterm baby?

The best environment for your baby is one that feels safe, warm, and peaceful. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just soothing and familiar.

  • Keep lights soft and noise low: Your baby has grown used to gentle sounds and dim light in the NICU.6.
  • Maintain a steady room temperature: Premature babies can lose heat quickly. Keep the room around 20–22°C (68–72°F) and use light layers instead of heavy blankets.7.
  • Avoid strong scents and products: Their skin is extra sensitive, so avoid any potentially irritating products. The HSE recommends waiting at least 6 weeks before using any products on your baby's skin. Always be sure to check with your neonatal team for advice and guidance. 8.
  • Keep essentials nearby: Having nappies, wipes, spare clothes, and muslin cloths within reach can help reduce stress during care routines.

How can I make feeding easier for my premature baby?

Feeding can take time to establish. Some preemies are still learning to coordinate sucking, swallowing, and breathing; others may tire partway through a feed.9.

  • Feed slowly and allow rest breaks: Smaller, more frequent feeds are often easier.
  • Follow your baby’s cues: Premature babies may not feed on a strict schedule, watch for signs like stirring, rooting, or bringing hands to the mouth.
  • Ask for support: Many hospitals offer neonatal outreach or feeding clinics to guide you through this stage.

Whether you’re breastfeeding, expressing, or using formula, remember there’s no one “right” way. What matters most is that feeding is calm, comfortable, and nourishing for both of you.

How should I care for my premature baby’s delicate skin?

A premature baby’s skin is still developing. It’s thinner, more permeable, and can lose moisture more easily which makes it especially sensitive to irritation.

To protect and soothe their skin:

  • Use minimal products: Plain water or ultra-gentle wipes are often recommended for cleaning. Remember that the HSE recommends waiting at least 6 weeks before using any products on your preterm baby's skin.8.
  • Avoid overwashing: Two to three short baths per week are enough initially.10.
  • Dry gently: Pat rather than rub your baby’s skin to protect its natural barrier.10.
  • Choose soft, breathable fabrics: Cotton and other breathable clothing helps reduce irritation.

Gentle care keeps your baby comfortable and supports healthy skin development as they grow stronger.

(Always follow the advice of your neonatal or healthcare team regarding suitable products for your baby.)

How can I help my premature baby sleep well?

Your baby may not yet have a consistent day-night rhythm, this will come with time. In the meantime:

  • Create a soothing bedtime routine: Dim lights, gentle sounds, and a calm tone help signal it’s time to rest.
  • Use safe sleep practices: Always place your baby on their back to sleep in a clear, flat space.11.
  • Respond to cues: Look for early tired signs such as yawning or rubbing eyes.
  • Be patient: Preemies often need a few extra weeks to establish sleep patterns; small steps are still progress.

How can I build confidence as a parent after the NICU?

Leaving the hospital means you’re now the one leading your baby’s care, and that can feel daunting at first. But the confidence will come.

  • Trust yourself: You’ve already been caring for your baby alongside the NICU team; now you’re continuing that care at home.
  • Stay connected: Keep in touch with your baby’s healthcare team for reassurance and advice.
  • Seek out community: Many neonatal charities and parent groups offer online and in-person support.
  • Celebrate every milestone: The first full feed, the first bath at home, the first sound sleep, each one is a victory worth celebrating.

You’ve already shown incredible strength. The rest will come with time, love, and patience

When should I contact my healthcare provider about my premature baby?

Always trust your instincts. Contact your midwife, GP, or hospital team if your baby:12.

  • Is unusually sleepy or hard to wake
  • Has difficulty feeding or breathing
  • Feels very hot, cold, or clammy
  • Shows signs of infection, such as fever or irritability

If you are ever unsure don’t be afraid to talk to your GP or medical team. Even outside hospital, you’re never without support, help is always just a call away.

A gentle reminder for every family

The journey from hospital to home is a powerful one, a mix of relief, pride, and cautious hope. It’s also a reminder of how far your baby has already come.

This World Prematurity Day, we honour every tiny fighter and every parent who’s walked the NICU path. Your strength, patience, and love make all the difference as your baby continues to grow and thrive, one gentle step at a time.

 At WaterWipes™, we see you and stand with you. Our wipes are made with the gentlest formula, because every baby deserves the best start, no matter how tiny. We’re honored to be trusted by so many NICUs. This World Prematurity Day, explore what life looks like in the NICU: Helping Parents To Care for Premature Babies in the NICU

References: 

  1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premature-birth/symptoms-causes/syc-20376730#:~:text=A%20premature%20birth%20means%20a,These%20problems%20often%20vary.
  2. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/preterm-birth
  3. https://communityhealth.mayoclinic.org/featured-stories/breastfeeding-late-preterm-baby
  4. https://www.gfcni.org/fileadmin/www.gfcni.org/GFCNI_Academy/Temperature_Management/Factsheet/Thermoregulation_Factsheet_2020_English.pdf
  5. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/premature-infant-skin-and-care
  6. https://neonatalnetworkssoutheast.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/TVW-Neonatal-ODN-Light-on-the-neonatal-unit-parent-guide-v5-ratified-June-2025.pdf
  7. https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/parenting-advice/premature-babies/caring-for-premature-baby-home/
  8. https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/parenting-advice/caring-for-a-new-baby/your-babys-skin/
  9. https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/parenting-advice/premature-babies/feeding-and-monitoring-at-home/#:~:text=wake%20to%20feed%20often,lead%20to%20lower%20weight%20gain
  10. https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/parenting-advice/caring-for-a-new-baby/how-bathe-your-baby/
  11. https://www.nhsfife.org/media/lghd3jd0/the-lullaby-trust-safer-sleep-advice-for-premature-babies.pdf
  12. https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/first-aid/when-to-see-your-gp/