Bathing your newborn can be a joyful experience filled with moments of love and connection. It’s not just about keeping your baby clean; it’s also a great time to bond and interact with your little one. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety during bath time. Babies are so slippery when wet! By following some simple tips, you can create a safe and comforting environment for both you and your baby. This guide will help you create an enjoyable bathing routine with your baby, turning it into a fun and loving experience for both of you.

When to Bathe Your Baby

The timing of your baby’s very first bath has changed in recent years. While many hospitals used to bathe babies within an hour or two after birth, many are now adopting new guidelines. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends delaying your baby’s first bath until at least 24 hours after birth¹, and many families wait until they are home from the hospital before giving the baby their first bath. Here are some reasons why it’s now recommended to delay your baby’s first bath:

• Body Temperature & Blood Sugar: Bathing right away can make babies cold. An early bath can also cause a drop in blood sugar.
• Bonding & Breastfeeding: Bathing your baby soon after birth can interrupt skin-to-skin contact, which is important for establishing breastfeeding and bonding with your baby. Research shows that waiting at least 12 hours can significantly increase breastfeeding success.²
• Dry Skin: Newborns are often covered with vernix, a waxy white substance that protects their skin. It acts as a natural moisturizer and has antibacterial properties.³ The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that it’s best to leave vernix on your baby’s skin to help prevent their delicate skin from drying out. Vernix usually absorbs into the baby’s skin on its own within 24-48 hours.

First Baths: Until your baby’s umbilical cord stump falls off (usually in the first few weeks), give them sponge baths. After it heals, you can give them a tub bath.

How Often: Newborns don’t need a bath every day. Two to three times a week is enough because too many baths can dry out their skin.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:

• A baby bathtub or a clean sink
• Soft washcloths
• Mild baby soap (fragrance-free is best)
• Towels 
• Baby brush or comb
• A clean diaper and clothes for after the bath

Check the Water Temperature

• Water Temperature: Fill the tub with a few inches of warm water (about 100°F or 37.8°C). Always check it with your wrist or elbow to make sure it’s not too hot.

How to Bathe Your Baby

1. Stay Safe: Always keep one hand on your baby. Babies can be very slippery, so never leave them alone in the water.
2. Sponge Bath Tips:
   • Lay your baby on a flat surface (like a changing table) with a towel underneath.
   • Use a damp washcloth to clean their face and neck. Don’t use soap on their face.
   • Clean the rest of their body with the washcloth, starting from the neck down to the feet.
   • After their body is clean, wrap them in a towel so they stay warm while you wash and rinse your baby’s hair.
3. Tub Bath Tips:
   • Place a small towel in the tub underneath the baby, so they aren’t so slippery.
   • Gently place your baby in the water, holding their head and neck with one hand while using a washcloth to wash them.
   • Start with their face and neck, then wash down their body. Be sure to clean between any folds of skin.
   • Wash and rinse their hair last.
4. Rinse and Dry: After washing, carefully lift your baby out of the water and wrap them in a towel. Pat them dry, especially in any creases.

After the Bath

• Moisturize: If your baby’s skin looks dry, you can use a gentle fragrance-free, moisturizing lotion.
• Diaper and Dress: Put on a clean diaper and dress your baby in comfy clothes.

Tips for a Safe Bath Time

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Babycare for the Breastfed Baby
• Moms Circle

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References