How to Handle Someone Else’s Baby: Basic Manners Every Adult Should Follow

When you’re around someone else’s baby, your intentions may be loving  but boundaries matter. Many parents silently struggle with how people handle their baby without permission.

So how should you handle someone else’s baby? This post talks about basic manners and baby etiquette every adult should follow.

Since I live alone, sometimes I call my friends over — either to look after my baby for a bit, or just to hang out and change my mood.

And honestly, people can be really kind. They come, they help, they play with my daughter, they treat her like their own…
But you know what really pinches me?
When they kiss her on the lips.
When they click her photos or videos without even asking me.

Why Basic Manners Matter Around Someone Else’s Baby

1. Don’t Rush Into a Baby’s Space Without Permission

Yes, babies are cute. Yes, they smell nice. Yes, you want to squish them.
But please understand — suddenly hopping onto a baby, squealing and grabbing them, can make them uncomfortable. Approach gently. Let them see you first.

2. Wash your hands.

Sounds obvious, right? But you’d be surprised how many people skip it. Hygiene is not just a “parent thing,” it’s basic respect for the child’s health.

3. Always ask before holding a baby.

Even if you’re a family member. Even if you’ve held them before.
And for strangers — please, if you spot a random cute baby in the street, resist the urge to squeeze their cheeks unless you’ve asked the parent first.

4. Kissing on the lips? Absolutely not.

Doctors don’t recommend it. It’s not healthy, it’s not safe, and it doesn’t matter how close you are to the family — if something happens, the baby and parents pay the price, not you.

5. No clicking photos without consent.

I don’t care how adorable the baby looks at that moment clicking and sharing photos without the parent’s permission is just… wrong. Some parents might not say it out loud, but they don’t like it.

Honestly, I respect the people who clearly say “No, I’m not comfortable” when someone tries to do these things they set boundaries without worrying about hurt feelings.

Babies are lovable, no doubt. But if you really care about them, show that love with sensitivity, respect, and basic manner