What solution is recommended to cleanse the eyes of an infant?

The recommended solution to cleanse the eyes of an infant is plain water. Using plain water is safe and gentle, which is crucial when dealing with an infant's sensitive skin and mucous membranes. It helps to remove impurities or discharge from the eyes without introducing any additional chemicals or potential irritants that could exacerbate any existing conditions.

Saline solution can also be used for eye cleansing, especially when prescribed by a healthcare professional, as it helps to mimic the body's natural fluids. However, for routine cleansing at home, plain water is often the simplest and safest option, making it more commonly recommended.

Other options like baby shampoo and alcohol wipes are not suitable for cleansing an infant's eyes. Baby shampoo is formulated for safe use on hair and skin but may still contain surfactants that could irritate the eyes. Alcohol wipes can cause significant irritation and should never be used on sensitive areas such as the eyes. Therefore, plain water stands out as the most appropriate solution for eye cleansing in infants.