Bathing Your Newborn: A Step-By-Step Guide

It is important to establish your baby’s bath time shortly after the baby is born. Once you bring your little bundle of joy home, you can give him/her a sponge bath. You can clean their head, body, and diaper area with a mild cleanser. Here are some tips on bathing a newborn and planning your baby’s bath time to keep him/her healthy.

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Baby’s Bath Time Frequency

Bathing your baby about two to three times a week is enough to keep your baby clean. However, if your baby likes baths, you can bathe your baby once a day. Bathing your baby more than once a day can dry out your baby’s skin. Your baby’s bath time should be no longer than five to ten minutes long especially if your baby has dry or sensitive skin.

Keep your baby’s genitals clean regularly by using warm water and a soft cotton cloth.

Where To Bathe Your Baby

You can bathe your baby in a baby bathtub until he/she is too big to fit comfortably. Help your baby get used to the big bath by putting a small baby bath into the big bath a few times.

Once your baby is ready for the big bath, you might consider taking a bath with your baby. Keep your baby’s face away from the running water and make sure the water isn’t too hot.

You can even add breast milk to your baby’s bath. Adding breast milk to your baby’s bath is said to have many health benefits for the baby.

Why Put Breast Milk In Baby’s Bath?

You may wonder “why to put breast milk in baby’s bath” – the reason is that using breast milk in a warm bath can be very relaxing for your baby due to its amazing moisturising ability.

However, make sure you check the temperature of the water for the baby’s bath. 

What Is The Right Water Temperature For A Baby’s Bath?

Ensure that the water temperature to bathe your baby is warm and never hot. The ideal temperature is about 38°C. You may use a bath thermometer to monitor the water temperature. You can also check the water with your wrist or elbow to confirm whether it’s warm enough and not hot.

An easy way to ensure this is to turn on the cold water first and then the hot water to fill the baby’s bathtub.

Besides the temperature of the water, another very important thing to keep in mind is to keep water out of the baby’s ears during the bath.

How To Keep Water Out Of A Baby’s Ears When Bathing A Baby?

One of the simplest ways to keep water out of a baby’s ears during a bath is to use a cotton ball in the opening of the baby’s ears. Rub the cotton ball into a tablespoon of petroleum jelly and make a watertight seal in the opening of the baby’s ears. Avoid shoving it down into the baby’s ear canal, it should just cover the opening.

Step By Step Guide For Baby’s Bath Time

Here are some basic steps for your baby’s bath time- 

1. Place a non-slip bath mat on the bathroom floor and one in the bath area.
2. Fill the bath with water which is enough to wash your baby. If your baby can sit up, fill the bath to the depth of his/her belly button.
3. Use warm water which is about 37°C or 38°C. Before bathing your baby, use your wrist or elbow to test the temperature. You can also use a thermometer.
4. Run some cold water as well through the tap.
5. Lower your baby gently into the bath and ensure you keep a hand on your baby at all times.
6. While bathing your baby in the big bath, sit on a low stool or kneel down or so that you don’t strain your back.
7. Shampoo should be the last step of your baby’s bath. Shampoo your baby’s hair only once or twice a week. Lay your baby on his/her back and gently rinse the hair after shampooing.
8. To clean your baby’s face, gently use a soft washcloth. Then move to his/her neck and body. The genitals and bottom should be cleaned last.
9. Once done, gently lift your baby out of the bath and wrap him/her in a soft dry towel for warmth.

Try to limit the use of soap and chemical-based shampoos as they can irritate the baby’s skin. Plus, a harsh soap can dry out your baby’s skin and even cause a nappy rash. Pick a natural, chemical free and natural moisturising baby wash for your baby.

Don’t leave your baby unattended at any time while giving him/her a bath. If you notice that your newborn cries or doesn’t enjoy bath time, check if the room is warm enough and also if the water temperature is fine. Wrap your baby in a towel during a sponge bath to keep him/her comfortable.

Baby’s bath time is a great way to bond, you can even add some fun bath activities to it to make it fun. 

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