The Dos and Don'ts of Bathing Your New Baby

The Dos and Don'ts of Bathing Your New Baby

When it comes to bathing your new baby, there are definitely some dos and don'ts that you should keep in mind. While it's important to keep your baby clean, bathing your new baby can be a tricky process if you don't know what you're doing. So whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, it pays to have an understanding of the best way to bathe your new baby. In this blog post, we'll discuss the dos and don'ts of bathing your new baby, from when to give your baby their first bath to how often you should be bathing them.

When to Give Baby Their First Bath
Giving your newborn baby their first bath can be a daunting task. While it is important to keep your baby clean and healthy, you also don't want to bathe them too soon. In most cases, it is best to wait until after the umbilical cord stump has fallen off (about two weeks) before giving your baby their first bath.
Before that point, you can give them a sponge bath. This will help keep them clean and comfortable without actually immersing them in water. Use a warm wet cloth and gently wipe down their face, neck, and diaper area. Make sure to keep their head and neck well supported with your other hand while doing this.
Once the umbilical cord stump has fallen off, it is time to give your baby their first real bath. Make sure to fill the tub with lukewarm water, between 97 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to check the temperature with a thermometer before putting your baby in the water.
When giving a newborn their first bath, it is important to keep the bath brief. Your baby's skin is very delicate, so try not to expose it to too much water for too long. Keep the bath under 10 minutes, making sure to wash their hair, face, and body with mild soap or shampoo during this time. Once finished, wrap your baby in a towel and dry them off carefully.

How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn
When it comes to bathing your newborn, it's important to know how often and what type of bath to give. Generally, newborns don't need to be bathed more than a few times per week, as the umbilical cord stump and any minor skin issues heal. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most newborns only need a few sponge baths until their umbilical cord stump falls off, which is usually between 7-10 days after birth.
After that, it's up to you and your baby as to how often you'd like to give them a bath. Many parents choose to bathe their babies at least every other day, while others may opt for only once a week. As a general rule of thumb, you should avoid giving your newborn a bath too often, as it could strip away their natural oils and cause dry skin. You should also be mindful of the temperature of the water and keep it lukewarm, not hot.
It's also important to note that if your baby has any kind of skin issue, such as cradle cap or eczema, it's best to consult with your pediatrician before you start giving them regular baths. Your doctor can provide you with advice on how best to care for your baby's skin.

What Type of Bathtub is Best for a Newborn
When it comes to bathing a newborn, safety is key. The right bathtub can help keep your baby safe and secure while you bathe them.
The ideal bathtub for a newborn is one that has a reclining surface to support their back and neck. Look for a bathtub with a non-slip base so your baby won’t slide around during their bath. There are also tubs made specifically for babies with added features like built-in thermometers, digital water temperature indicators, and draining systems.
When it comes to filling the bathtub, always use lukewarm water that is no more than 37 degrees Celsius. If the room is chilly, run the tap at a higher temperature, then let the hot water run for a few seconds before turning off the tap and letting the water cool down.
If possible, it’s best to bathe your baby in a large sink or tub that you can fill with enough water to cover their body. This will help keep them warm and secure during the bath. You can also find baby baths that sit in the adult bathtub or that come with a stand that can be used inside or outside of the shower or tub.
Finally, make sure to have everything you need within reach and within sight when you’re bathing your baby. This will ensure that they stay safe while you bathe them and also help speed up the process.
When it comes to bathing a newborn, safety is key. By choosing the right bathtub and making sure that you have all of the necessary supplies nearby, you can help keep your baby safe and secure during their bathtime.

What Soap Should You Use on a Newborn
When it comes to soap, you should always opt for products specifically designed for newborns. As babies are still developing their immune system and are more vulnerable to infections, using a gentle, mild and natural soap is a must. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and alcohol-free soaps are ideal choices for your newborn. Look for soaps with natural ingredients like organic coconut oil, organic sunflower oil, shea butter and aloe vera.
It’s best to avoid any soaps that contain any artificial colors, fragrances or preservatives. You should also stay away from soaps containing potentially harmful ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. These can easily irritate your baby’s delicate skin.
Moreover, it is best to use only a small amount of soap when bathing your baby. Too much soap can cause dryness and irritation. After bathing your baby, make sure you rinse off all the soap thoroughly to prevent any skin issues.
Remember to use a towel that is soft and absorbent when drying your baby off after their bath. This will help keep your baby’s skin smooth and moisturized. Lastly, remember to apply a baby-friendly lotion or moisturizer after each bath to keep your baby’s skin healthy and hydrated.

How to Bathe a Newborn
When bathing a newborn, safety and comfort should be your top priorities. Here are some tips to make sure the bathtime experience is both safe and enjoyable for your little one:
1. Gather all of your supplies beforehand. Make sure you have all the necessary items, such as a baby bathtub, a mild cleanser, a soft washcloth, and a soft towel, before you start the bath.
2. Prepare the water. Before you place your baby in the tub, make sure the water is warm but not hot. You should also add a few inches of water to the bathtub to ensure that your baby is fully submerged.
3. Place your baby in the tub. Use one hand to support their head and neck, and the other hand to gently lower them into the water. If your baby seems uncomfortable, you can use a bath seat or cradle to provide extra support.
4. Clean your baby’s body. Start by gently washing their face with a soft cloth and mild cleanser, being sure to avoid their eyes and mouth. Then, use a wet cloth to wipe down their arms, legs, and body. Take extra care when washing delicate areas, such as their genitals, bottom, and between their fingers and toes.
5. Rinse off the soap. Once you’re finished washing your baby’s body, use a clean cloth to rinse off any soap residue. Make sure to take extra care around the more sensitive areas.
6. Dry your baby off. Use a soft towel to pat your baby dry after their bath. Gently rub the towel over their body to remove excess moisture. Once your baby is dry, you can apply a moisturizing lotion or oil if desired.
7. Clean up the tub. Once your baby’s bath is complete, empty the bathtub and clean it thoroughly before putting away all of your supplies.