So, you have just welcomed your new bundle of joy into the world. Congratulations! As a new mom, you have a lot on your mind and do not know where to start when it comes to bathing your newborn.
Relax, we are here to help. In this article, we will walk you through the basics of bathing a newborn.
When should baby’s first bath be and when should you bathe your newborn?
This is entirely up to you, if it is not right after a feeding or when baby is overtired. A good time to bathe your newborn is usually within the first week after birth. Newborns do not need a lot of washing, so you will only be giving them a quick sponge bath until their umbilical cord stump falls off, which usually happens about one to three weeks after birth.
When giving your baby their first bath, use plain water and a soft cloth to clean their body. Be careful around the umbilical cord stump and do not let the water get in their eyes or mouth. A newborn’s bath should be part of a relaxing bedtime routine. After the first week, you can start using soap on your baby’s skin, but avoid getting it in their eyes. Rinse them off well with warm water and wrap them in a soft towel.
Should I bathe my baby every day?
Many parents choose to give their baby a bath every day, but this is not necessary. Bathing your baby too often can dry out their skin and cause cradle cap or diaper rash. Many pediatricians recommend bathing your baby two or three times a week.
What is a good baby bath temperature?
Newborns do not need a hot bath—in fact, it can be dangerous. The water should be comfortably warm, about one hundred degrees Fahrenheit. You can test the temperature by dipping your elbow or wrist in the water. You do not want it to be too hot because that can actually dry out their skin more and cause irritation.
How to bathe a newborn baby
Now that you know when to bathe your newborn and how often, it is time to learn how to do it! Here are the basics:
- Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of soap.
- Gently wash your baby’s face and scalp with a soft cloth and water.
- Use a wet cloth to clean the baby’s body, being careful around the umbilical cord stump.
- Rinse them off well with warm water and wrap them in a soft towel.
- Finish by giving your baby a gentle massage and moisturizing with hypoallergenic lotion.
How to dry a newborn after a bath
After your baby’s bath, you will need to dry them off. Here are a few tips:
- Gently pat your baby’s skin dry with a soft towel.
- Don’t rub your baby’s skin—this can cause irritation.
- Use a hairdryer on the cool setting to dry their hair.
- Don’t put lotion or powder on your baby’s skin until they are completely dry.
Drying a newborn after a bath can be tricky. You do not want to rub their skin too hard, and you should avoid putting lotion or powder on them until they are completely dry. By gently patting their skin dry with a soft towel or using a hairdryer on the cool setting, you can avoid irritation to their delicate skin.
Things to keep in mind
When it comes to bathing your baby, you do not have to do it every day. Many pediatricians recommend bathing your baby two or three times a week. Be sure to use warm water and avoid getting the water in your baby’s eyes or mouth. Bathing your baby too often can dry out their skin and cause problems like cradle cap or diaper rash. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed by the idea of bathing your baby every day, just try doing it every other day or every three days. Your baby will still be clean and healthy!