Source:
SailNet Articles
by Kevin Jeffrey
pictures FTW Racing

While sailing allows more latitude in what you can bring for a baby, it also imposes a few restrictions of its own.
Here are some hints, tips, and things unique to sailing with a baby.

• Use a harness.
  Begin as soon as the baby is mobile and continue until he can swim.
  
  
• At bath time, use the dishpan, sink, or laundry bucket.
  Do a final rinse with fresh water to prevent salt water rashes.
  
  
• For toys, make use of any appropriate equipment on board—measuring cups and spoons, plastic glasses, keys on a keyring, wooden spoons, or even toothbrushes.
  
  
• Attach netting along lifelines if the baby is at the standing up stage.
  This will keep both the baby and toys on board.
  Also use netting or a leecloth along a sleeping bunk to keep the baby from falling out.
  
  
•  A baby can sleep anywhere.
  A basket, carrybed, or carriage top allows him to be moved while sleeping, a convenient way to keep the baby from monopolizing an entire cabin each time he naps.
  
  
• Use cloth diapers.
  Keep one bucket just for soaking purposes.
  Add Borax or lemon ammonia to the presoaking water.
  Wash in salt or fresh water, but give the diapers a final fresh water rinse to prevent rashes.
  
  
• Use both a bow and stern painter on the dinghy so the boat can be snugged alongside wherever you are landing.
  This reduces motion and keeps everyone's hands free while handing a baby in or out of the boat.