How to Bath a Baby: The Ultimate Guide

The first few times you give your baby a bath can be a bit tricky and scary, but soon you’ll become a pro. To make it easier for you we’ve written down an ultimate guide on how to handle baby’s first bath and how to bathe your newborn step by step.

Your baby’s first bath is an exciting milestone, but handling a tiny slippery wet body in water can be a little nerve-wracking. Still, giving your newborn baby the first bath can be actually a joyful time.

How Often Bath a Baby?

In the past, it was recommended to bathe a baby daily, but the latest medical knowledge refutes this fact, especially because an increase in allergic reactions. The skin of babies is very thin and sensitive and its protective part is not yet fully developed. This desirable protective part of the skin washes away with each bath. It makes the baby’s skin more sensitive. Therefore it is recommended to bath a baby one to three times per week. Babies with a tendency to eczema and allergies is recommended to bath once a week. The bath itself should last 5-10 minutes ideally.

When to Bath a Baby?

You can bath your baby at any time of the day. It’s a good idea to pick a time when you’re relaxed and you won’t be interrupted. Try not to bath your baby when they’re hungry or straight after a feed. If bathing relaxes your baby, you can include it into your‘s baby bedtime routine. Some babies sleep longer after an evening bath.

Where to Bath a Baby?

Small babies need to be bathed in their own small baths, due to the possible transmission of the infection from the classic large bath used by the whole family. In addition, the baby bath is more economical in terms of the amount of water needs and the baby feels cozier and safer in it.

Place the bath in a spot that is safe for the baby and comfortable for you. Many parents place the bath on a dining table, changing table or washing machine. However. When baby is in the bath you must always keep an eye on him and never move away from him.

It is necessary to prepare everything you need within reach in order not to have to move away from the baby during the bath. Prepare everything such as bath towels, soap, shampoos and bubble baths, clean diapers and clothes.

Don’t forget the temperature. The optimal room temperature for bathing babies is 71.6° to 75.2° Fahrenheit and the water in the bath should be around the natural temperature of the human body – between 96.8° and 100.4° Fahrenheit.

How to Bath Baby: Step by Step

Here are basic steps for giving your baby a bath:

1. Put a non-slip bath mat on the bathroom floor and one in the bath.
2. Fill the bath with just enough water to wash your baby. For babies who can sit up, fill the bath to the depth of their belly buttons.
3. Use warm (not hot) water, 96.8° and 100.4° Fahrenheit. Turn the water off. Test the temperature with a thermometer or your wrist or elbow before you put baby into the bath.
4. Briefly run cold water through the tap.
5. Gently lower your baby into the bath, keeping a hand on your baby at all times.
6. If bathing your baby in the big bath, kneel down or sit on a low stool so that you don’t hurt your back.
7. Shampoo your baby’s hair last (you need to do this only once or twice a week). To do this, lie baby on their back and gently rinse their hair.
8. Use a soft washcloth to gently clean your baby’s face, then their neck and body, leaving the genitals and bottom until last.
9. Gently lift your baby out of the bath and wrap them in a soft dry towel to keep them warm.

Try to keep soap, shampoos and bubble baths to a minimum – they can irritate skin and cause rash. A mild non-soap cleanser is a good alternative.

Might Be Helpful for You:

• 10 Ideas for Your Baby Bedtime Routine
• Baby Sleep Schedule: How Much Sleep Does Your Baby Need? (0-12 Months)
• Baby Feeding Schedule
• How to Choose Best Baby Monitor
• Baby Camera: Where to Place a Baby Monitor
• Coronavirus in Babies: How to Protect Your Child Right Now