When bathing a baby for the first time, many parents are nervous about not knowing how to do it properly. What you will be happy to know is that apart from the diaper area, your baby does not have to have a bath all that often.
When should I start bathing my baby?
When you first bring your infant home, you should only be giving him/her sponge baths. This is to protect your baby’s umbilical cord stump until it falls off. Once it is has healed, you can begin giving your baby normal baths by putting the baby into the water feet first with her head and most of her body still out.
How often should I bathe my baby?
If you clean the diaper area thoroughly every time and wipe down your baby’s neck, hands, and face daily, you may only have to give your baby a bath two (2) or three (3) times a week. If you wash him/her any more than that, his/her skin may become too dry or irritated.
What do I need to bathe my baby?
- Unscented soap – soaps with added scents or dyes are more likely to cause an allergic reaction.
- Wash cloth
- Spout cover – If you are washing your baby in a regular sized tub, you may want to consider using a spout cover, especially for when your baby becomes mobile. A spout cover can help prevent head injuries.
Remember to make sure that all of your supplies are within reach. If you have to leave your baby for any amount of time remove them from the water. If you are giving them a sponge bath and have them up on a counter or on their changing table, be sure to have them safely strapped down if you have to leave them. If you do not have safety straps your hand should always be resting on them to reduce the risk of falling.
For more about keeping your baby safe in the bathroom and during bath time, CLICK HERE.