Bathing Your Baby

by Donna Lee

Bathing your baby

Make bath time enjoyable for your baby by being safe, prepared, and nurturing. Babies love the feel of water (lots of splashing!) and the feel of skin-to-skin touch. Speak to your baby in soft, happy tones to make him feel relaxed and comfortable.

Safety Reminders

In the first few days, newborns should be sponge-bathed. Sit your baby on a soft towel and wipe your baby with warm washcloths. Never leave your baby unattended. Test the water temperature on the back of your wrist. Water should be warm, not hot. Always keep one hand on your baby. To avoid falls or slips, keep bathing supplies within arms reach. Consult your child's doctor on how to care for the child's umbilical cord and/or circumcision.

Bathing Supplies

Organize these supplies before beginning your baby's bath.

Soft non-abrasive washcloths; Baby formulated soap and/or shampoo(tearless); Baby bath tub; Small cup to pour water; Two large soft towels (one for drying and one to place the baby on); Baby creams, lotions, or oils. New change of clothes and diapers.

Bathing Tips

The ideal way to bathe a baby is to start from the top and work down. Gently wash baby's face with warm washcloth. Eyes should be wiped from nose to cheek, using a different corner for each wipe. Apply a tearless baby formulated shampoo to your baby's head. To rinse, hold the baby like a football and tip his head. Carefully pour small cups of water over the top of the head avoiding water to stream over the face. Wash your baby's body next, leaving the genital area last. Remember to clean within skin folds, between feet, and behind ears. Lay out a large towel next to the tub. Wrap baby in another soft large towel and transfer him from the tub to the towel. Gently pat your baby dry. Remember to dry all folds in his skin. Diaper and change baby into fresh new clothes.