How to bathe a newborn

Bathing a newborn can be tricky at first, especially if your newborn seems unhappy in the bath. A few simple steps can make bath time enjoyable and easy for you and your baby. Bathing your baby takes practice, so try to relax and take your time. You might like to start by bathing your baby when someone else is around to help. If you’re worried about losing your grip on your baby, you can make the bath less slippery by lining it with a clean cloth nappy or towel.

A newborn’s skin is soft and delicate. Contrary to popular thought, most newborn babies do not need a bath every single day. With all the diaper changes and wiping of the mouth and nose after feedings, most babies may only need to be bathed 2 or 3 times a week or every other day. Baths can be given any time of day. Bathing before a feeding often works well. Many parents prefer to bathe their baby in the evening, as part of the bedtime ritual. This works well especially if bath time is relaxing and soothing for the baby.

A safe bath temperature is 98.6 to 100.4 °F (37-38°C). A newborn’s skin is soft and delicate. It takes less than a second for a child to be severely scalded by water that’s too hot. Before putting your child into the bath, check the water temperature. Swirl the water around to remove hot spots.

Sponge baths are required at first. Bathing in a tub of water should not be done until the baby’s umbilical cord falls off, and a baby boy’s circumcision heals, to prevent infection.

It’s normal for newborns to find bath time distressing at first. But most babies quickly learn to like bath time. To help your baby enjoy bath time, you can try placing your hand gently on his tummy. This can help your baby feel safe and secure in the bath.

If your baby doesn’t like baths, give her a ‘top and tail’ bath one day and a proper bath the next. By around three months, it’s likely your baby will love the bath.

These steps make bathing your newborn easy:

• Before undressing your baby, wipe his eyelids (from inner eye to outer eye) with cotton wool dipped in lukewarm water. Use a new piece of cotton wool for each eye. Then wash his whole face. Be careful not to put anything into his ears or nose.
• Undress your baby, taking her nappy off last.
• Cradle your baby’s head with one arm, supporting his head and neck with the other arm. Gently lower him into the bath, feet first, keeping a close hold at all times.
• Supporting her head, lay your baby down in the bath so the back of her head is submerged. Gently splash some water onto her head.
• Gently wash your baby’s genitals and bottom last, using water only. Also clean out any bits of poo or vomit from his body creases.

Figure 1. Preparing a newborn bath

Figure 2. How to bathe a newborn

Figure 3. Newborn bathing safety (Remember: Never leave your baby alone or in the care of another young child in or near water—not even for a moment)

When should a newborn get his first bath?

The timing of your baby’s very first bath has changed over the last few years. While most institutions used to bathe babies within an hour or two of birth, many are changing their policies. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends delaying baby’s first bath until 24 hours after birth or waiting at least 6 hours if a full day isn’t possible for cultural reasons.

Why wait?

Here are some reasons why it is now recommended to delay baby’s first bath:

• Body temperature and blood sugar: Babies who get baths right away may be more likely to become cold and develop hypothermia. The minor stress of an early bath can also make some babies more likely to have a drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• Bonding and breastfeeding: Taking the baby away for a bath too soon can interrupt skin-to-skin care, mother-child bonding, and early breastfeeding success. One study ¹⁾ showed a 166% increase in hospital breastfeeding success after implementing a 12-hour delay in baby’s first bath compared to those bathed within the first couple hours.
• Dry skin: Vernix, a waxy white substance that coats a baby’s skin before birth, acts as a natural moisturizer and may have anti-bacterial properties. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it’s best to leave vernix on a newborns’ skin for a while to help prevent their delicate skin from drying out. This is especially important for preemies, as their skin is highly prone to injury.

Can my baby have a bath before the umbilical cord falls off?

Only give your newborn sponge baths until the stump of the umbilical cord falls off, which usually happens by about one or two weeks of age. If it remains beyond that time, there may be other issues at play. See your baby’s doctor if the umbilical cord has not dried up and fallen off by the time your baby is two months old.

When to give your newborn a bath?

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. And it’s best to avoid bathing your baby when he’s hungry or straight after a feed.

If your baby likes a bath and it seems to relax her, you can use bathing as a way to help settle her for sleep in the evening.

Where to bath your newborn?

You can give your newborn a bath in a small plastic bath or even in the kitchen sink. The kitchen sink might be easiest in the first few weeks. A plastic baby bath is probably the best option once your baby gets bigger.

You can bath your baby in any room that’s warm, safe and clean – it doesn’t have to be a bathroom.

You can also shower with your baby. Keep your baby’s face away from the pouring water and make sure to use warm, not hot, water.

What equipment is needed for bathing newborns?

• Thick towels or a sponge-type bath cushion
• Soft washcloths
• Basin or clean sink
• Cotton balls
• Baby shampoo and baby soap (nonirritating)
• Hooded baby towel
• Clean diaper and clothing.

Proper skin care for your newborn

A baby’s soft and delicate skin needs special care. Generally it is best to use products made especially for babies, but your baby’s doctor can advise you about other products. Products for adults may be too harsh for a baby and may contain irritants or allergens. Many parents like to use lotions for the sweet baby smell. However, unless the baby’s skin is dry, lotions really are not needed. Powders should be avoided, unless they are recommended by your baby’s doctor. When using any powder, put the powder in your hand and then apply it to the baby’s skin. Shaking powder into the air releases dust and talc which can make it hard for the baby to breathe.

Many babies have rashes and bumps that are normal. Some rashes may be a sign of a problem or infection. Diaper rash can be irritating to the baby and needs to be treated. If you have concerns about a rash, or your baby is uncomfortable or has a fever, call your baby’s doctor.

Laundry detergents may cause irritation to a baby’s delicate skin. Even if you use a detergent marketed for baby laundry, it is a good idea to rinse the laundry an extra time to remove residues.

How often to give your newborn a bath?

Newborns don’t need a bath every day. They rarely sweat or get dirty enough to need a full bath that often.

A bath 2-3 times a week is enough to keep your newborn clean. But if your baby really likes baths, you can bath him once a day. Three baths per week during baby’s first year may be enough. Bathing more frequently can dry out your baby’s skin.

You can keep your baby’s genitals clean between baths by using warm water and cotton wool.

About 5-10 minutes is long enough for a newborn bath. This is especially important if your baby has dry or sensitive skin.

How to give a baby a sponge bath

A sponge bath is like a regular bath, except you don’t put your baby in the water.

Baby sponge bath safety tips:

• Make sure the room is warm, without drafts (about 75° F).
• Gather all equipment and supplies in advance.
• Add warm water to a clean sink or basin (warm to the inside of your wrist or elbow).
• Place baby on a bath cushion or thick towels on a flat surface that is waist high.
• Keep the baby covered with a towel or blanket.
• NEVER take your hands off the baby, even for a moment. If you have forgotten something, wrap up the baby in a towel and take him or her with you.
• Start with the baby’s face. Use 1 moistened, clean cotton ball to wipe each eye, starting at the bridge of the nose then wiping out to the corner of the eye.
• Wash the rest of the baby’s face with a soft, moist washcloth without soap.
• Clean the outside folds of the ears with a soft washcloth. DO NOT insert a cotton swab into the baby’s ear canal because of the risk of damage to the ear drum.
• Add a small amount of baby soap to the water or washcloth, and gently bathe the rest of the baby from the neck down. Uncover only one area at a time. Rinse with a clean washcloth or a small cup of water. Be sure to avoid getting the umbilical cord wet.
• Wash the baby’s head last with shampoo on a washcloth. Rinse, being careful not to let water run over the baby’s face. Holding the baby firmly with your arm under his or her back and your wrist and hand supporting his or her neck, you can use a high faucet to rinse the hair.
• Scrubbing is not necessary, but most babies enjoy their arms and legs being massaged with gentle strokes during a bath.
• Wrap the baby in a hooded bath towel and cuddle your clean baby close.
• Follow cord care instructions given by your baby’s doctor.
• Use a soft baby brush to comb out your baby’s hair. DO NOT use a hair dryer on hot to dry a baby’s hair because of the risk of burns.
• Expect your baby to cry the first few times you bathe him or her. Usually, this is just because a bath is a new experience. However, be sure to check that the water is not too warm or cold or that soap has not gotten in your baby’s eyes.

A ‘top and tail’ bath is when you use cotton wool and warm water for your baby’s eyes and face, and a washcloth for her hands and bottom. ‘Topping and tailing’ means you can concentrate on the areas that really need a wash, and your baby can keep most of her clothes on while you do it.

Here’s how to get ready for a newborn bath:

• Take the phone off the hook or turn your cellphone off while bathing baby. You’ll be less likely to get distracted.
• Make sure you have everything you need at hand – for example, towel, washcloth, lotion, clean clothes and clean nappy. Avoid using soap because this will dry out your baby’s skin. If needed, use a gentle non-soap cleanser or fragrance-free oil.
• Position the bath somewhere stable and at a height where you can comfortably hold your baby. A kitchen table is often best.
• Fill the bath with about 5 cm of water for babies up to six months old. Use jugs of water to fill the bath if you’re planning to bath your baby away from the tap.
• Take off your watch and jewellery and wash your hands.
• Check the water temperature is 98.6 to 100.4 °F (37-38°C) before you put your baby in. If you don’t have a thermometer, use your wrist or elbow to test the temperature – it should be comfortably warm, not hot.
• Before bathing your baby in a sink, briefly run cold water through the tap once you’ve finished filling the bath.
• Don’t add extra water while your baby is in the bath.

Drying and dressing your newborn after a bath

Here’s how to take your newborn out of the bath, ready for drying and dressing:

• Supporting your baby’s head and neck, lift her out of the bath then place her on her back on a clean, dry, soft towel. Also keep her warm.
• Wrap your baby in a soft towel and pat dry. Pay attention to skin creases, including armpits, groin, under the chin, around the neck and behind the ears.
• If your baby’s skin is dry, or if he has nappy rash, you might want to apply a mild lotion like white soft paraffin, or zinc and castor oil. Pawpaw cream might also be helpful.
• Dress your baby, putting her nappy on first.
• Place your baby in a safe place, like a cot or bassinette.
• Empty the bath water.

How to give your newborn a tub bath

Once your baby’s umbilical cord has fallen off and the stump is healed, and after a boy’s circumcision has healed, you can give your baby a tub bath by placing your baby directly in the water. This can be a pleasurable experience for you and your baby. However, some babies may not like to be bathed, especially the first few times. He may protest a little. (If this happens go back to sponge baths for a week or two, then try the bath again). Babies usually make it clear when they’re ready. Or you can try talking softly or singing and trying some bath toys if your baby protests. His first baths should be as gentle and brief as possible.

What equipment is needed for a tub bath?

• Baby bathtub (preferably with a bottom drain plug)
• Nonslip mat or pad
• Bath thermometer (these often have “safe” bath temperature ranges marked on them)
• When bathing your baby in a tub:
• Clear the counter or table top of breakable objects and electrical appliances to prevent injury.
• Fill the tub with warm water, using a bath thermometer.
• Follow the same general bathing instructions for a sponge bath.
• NEVER take your hands off your baby, or walk away, even for a moment.
• Be sure to clean the bathtub after each use.

Baby bathtub safety tips

• Use an infant tub or sink. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends a hard plastic baby bathtub that has a sloped, textured surface or sling that keeps your baby from sliding. Only use an infant bath tub manufactured on or after October 2, 2017 so it meets current safety standards. Some parents find it easiest to bathe a newborn in a bathinette, sink, or plastic tub lined with a clean towel. Yes, a sink! Sometimes easiest is best; just be careful. Sinks are slippery and have all sorts of things sticking out like faucets and handles.
• Avoid using bath seats. These seats provide support so a child can sit upright in an adult bathtub. Unfortunately, they can easily tip over. A child can fall into the bathwater and drown.
• Use touch supervision. Have a towel and other bath supplies within reach so you can keep a hand on your baby at all times. If you’ve forgotten something or need to answer the phone or door during the bath, you must take the baby with you.
  • Start practicing infant water safety now: Never leave a baby alone in the bath, even for an instant. Most child drownings inside the home occur in bathtubs, and more than half of bathtub deaths involve children under 1 year of age.
• Check the water temperature. Fill the basin with 2 inches of water that feels warm—not hot—to the inside of your wrist or elbow. If you’re filling the basin from the tap, turn the cold water on first (and off last) to avoid scalding yourself or your child. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that the hottest temperature at the faucet should be no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to help avoid burns. In many cases you can adjust your water heater setting to not go above this temperature. Tap water that’s too hot can quickly cause burns serious enough to require a hospital visit or even surgery. In fact, hot water scalds are the top cause of burns among babies and young children.
• Keep baby warm. Once you’ve undressed your baby, place her in the water immediately so she doesn’t get chilled. Use one of your hands to support her head and the other to guide her in, feet first. Talk to her encouragingly, and gently lower the rest of her body until she’s in the tub. Most of her body and face should be well above the water level for safety, so you’ll need to pour warm water over her body frequently to keep her warm.
• Use soap sparingly. Soaps can dry out your baby’s skin. If a cleanser is needed for heavily soiled areas, use only mild, neutral-pH soaps without additives. Rinse soap from the skin right away. Wash baby’s hair two or three times a week using a mild shampoo or body wash.
  • You may see some scaly patches on your baby’s scalp called cradle cap―a harmless condition that appears in many babies. You can loosen the scales with a soft-bristled brush while shampooing in the bathtub, but it’s also okay to leave it alone if it doesn’t bother you. It’s unlikely to bother your baby, and she will outgrow it.
• Clean gently. Use a soft cloth to wash your baby’s face and hair, being careful not to scrub or tug the skin. Massage her entire scalp gently, including the area over her fontanelles (soft spots). When you rinse shampoo from her head, cup your hand across her forehead so the suds run toward the sides, not into her eyes. If some suds do get into her eyes, use the wet washcloth to wipe them with plain, lukewarm water. Wash the rest of her body from the top down.
• Have fun in the tub. If your baby enjoys her bath, give her some extra time to splash and play in the water. The more fun your child has in the bath, the less she’ll be afraid of the water. Bathing should be a very relaxing and soothing experience, so don’t rush unless she’s unhappy.
  • Young infants don’t really need bath toys, since just being in the water is usually exciting enough. Once a baby is old enough for the bathtub, however, toys become key. Containers, floating toys, even waterproof books make wonderful distractions as you cleanse your baby.
• Get out and dry off. When bath time is finished, promptly wrap a towel around your baby’s head and body to help her stay warm while she is still wet. Bathing a baby of any age is wet work, so you may want to wear a terry-cloth apron or hang a towel over your shoulder to keep yourself dry. Gently pat baby dry and apply a small amount of fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizing lotion right after a bath to help prevent dry skin or eczema.