The birth of a child is an extraordinary event, and many women are now opting for water births to make the experience more comfortable. But once the delivery is over and you have your beautiful baby in your arms, you may find yourself staring at the birth pool and wondering, “What on earth do I do with this now?” Don’t worry; we have the answers. We explore what to do with your birth pool after delivery so that you have a plan forward to make cleanup a breeze.
Clean the Birth Pool
First, it is crucial to clean the pool properly after use. Use an antibacterial solution that’s safe for both the pool material and your family. Remove all birth debris, and clean the pool thoroughly. There are many tips for cleaning after a home water birth, but ensure the pool is on the list of action items so you can move on to storage or donation efforts effectively.
Store Your Birth Pool
If you plan to have more children in the future, storing your birth pool could be a good idea. Make sure it is completely dry before you pack it away to avoid mold and mildew. Store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to maintain the integrity of the pool material. If you do plan to store it, cleaning it beforehand is critical.
Repurpose Your Birth Pool
A birth pool does not need to be a one-use item. There are several ways you can repurpose it after its initial use. Some people have used their pools as large paddling pools for their children to play in during the summer months. Others have transformed them into ball pits or even sandboxes. Don’t be afraid to get creative with how you repurpose your pool.
Donate Your Birth Pool
If storage space is a concern or you don’t foresee needing the pool again, donating it is a wonderful option. Many hospitals, birthing centers, or even individual midwives might be grateful for the donation. Always clean the pool thoroughly before donating and inform them of your cleaning steps so they can consider their next steps upon accepting the donation.
The Wrap Up
You have many options available when deciding what to do with your birth pool after delivery. Whether you choose to store, repurpose, or donate it, the most important thing is to make sure it is thoroughly clean first. Your birth pool played a part in bringing your child into the world, and it can continue to provide joy and use in the future, whether for you or the community.
