How often should I bathe my baby?
Although some parents bathe their babies every day, until yours is crawling around and getting into things, a daily bath isn't really necessary. Many parents and babies love bath time, but there's no evidence that suggests babies must have a daily bath. The overuse of strong cleansers, and even tap water, can damage the developing skin of newborns. Look for gentle pH-neutral cleansers or mild soaps designed especially for babies, and use them sparingly in the first few weeks.
Washing the face frequently and thoroughly, cleaning the genital area after each diaper change, and cleaning off any other obvious muck, will be enough to keep your baby clean between baths. When you do bathe him/her, you may find it a little scary to handle your little one when he/she is all soapy and slippery, so keep a good grip. Most babies find the warm water very soothing.
Where should I bathe my baby?
Instead of using a standard bath, which requires you to kneel or lean awkwardly over your baby and gives you less control over his movements, it makes sense to use the kitchen sink or a small plastic baby bath.
What's the best way to give my baby a bath?
Here's how to do it and what you'll need to make baby-bathing easy. With any luck, your baby’s bath will become one of the most enjoyable parts of your days together.
1. Prepare everything for after the bath ahead of time: a blanket, a towel, a diaper, diaper cream, body lotion, undershirt, onesie, hat, socks and if you’re bottle feeding, prepare a bottle, if not, prepare your breast!
2. Make sure the room is warm and the bath water is comfortably warm but not hot; about 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) has been shown to help babies to retain body heat.
3. For newborns and babies up to six months old, fill the bath with about five inches of water, or enough to allow your baby to settle in the water with his shoulders well covered. Never fill the bath more than waist-high (in sitting position) for older children.
4. Bring your baby to the bath area and undress him/her completely.
5. Gradually slip your baby into the bath, using one hand to support his/her neck and head. I highly recommend the Daphné seat – It’ll free up your hands and make bath time a lot more manageable.
6. Use soap sparingly as you wash him/her with your hand or a flannel or sponge from top to bottom, front to back. Wash his/her scalp with a wet, soapy cloth. Use moistened cotton wool to clean his/her eyes and face. As for your baby's genitals, a routine wash is all that is needed. If dried mucus has collected in the corner of your baby's nostrils or eyes, dab it several times with a small section of a moistened cotton wool to soften it before you wipe it out.
7. Rinse your baby thoroughly with a clean flannel.
8. Wrap your baby in a towel and pat him/her dry. If his/her skin is dry, or if there is a bit of a diaper rash, you may want to apply a mild moisturizing lotion after the bath.
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