Baby's First Bath: How To Give Your Newborn A Bath

Saturday, August 19, 2023, 11:30

Welcoming a newborn into your family is a joyous occasion filled with endless moments of tenderness and wonder. As you navigate the beautiful journey of parenthood, one of the earliest and most intimate experiences you'll share with your little one is bath time.

While it might seem like a simple task, giving your newborn a bath requires a gentle touch, patience, and a deep understanding of your baby's needs - and we are here to help you with that!

How To Give Your Newborn A Bath?

Preparing for the Bath

Gather all necessary supplies before starting the bath. These include a baby bathtub, mild soap, washcloth, towel, clean diapers, and clothes. Ensure that the room is warm and draft-free to keep your newborn comfortable.

Testing the Water Temperature

Fill the baby bathtub with warm water at around 37 degrees Celsius. Use a thermometer or your elbow to check if it feels comfortably warm. Avoid using hot water as it can scald your baby's delicate skin.

Undressing Your Baby

Lay a soft towel on a flat surface near the bathtub. Gently undress your newborn, removing any clothing or diaper. Keep them wrapped in another towel to prevent them from getting cold during the bath.

Supporting Your Baby in the Tub

With one hand supporting their neck and head, carefully lower your baby into the tub feet first. Use your other hand to support their back and bottom while keeping them upright in a slightly reclined position.

Washing Your Baby's Body

Using a gentle soap or cleanser specifically designed for babies, lather up a washcloth and gently cleanse their body from top to bottom. Pay special attention to folds of skin such as the neck, armpits, and diaper area.

Washing Your Baby's Hair

Support your baby's head with one hand and use a small amount of mild baby shampoo to clean their hair. Gently massage the scalp using your fingertips while ensuring that no soap gets into their eyes or mouth.

Rinsing Off Soap

Using a cup or your hand, pour warm water over your baby to rinse off any remaining soap. Make sure all soap is thoroughly removed, especially from the diaper area to prevent irritation.

Lifting Your Baby Out of the Tub

With one hand supporting their neck and head, lift your baby out of the tub carefully. Use a towel to wrap them immediately and pat dry gently, paying attention to all creases and folds on their body.

Moisturizing and Dressing Your Baby

Apply a gentle moisturizer or lotion on your baby's skin after bathing to keep it soft and hydrated. Dress them in clean clothes and put on a fresh diaper before cuddling with them for some bonding time.