Bringing home a newborn is a joyous occasion for many parents, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to bathing this delicate little bundle. However, with practice and guidance, giving your baby a bath becomes a routine and comforting activity. Typically, babies only need to be bathed two to three times a week, with thorough cleaning of the diaper area during each diaper change.
Initially, it's essential to start with sponge baths until your baby's umbilical cord stump heals and falls off. Here are some tips recommended by dermatologists for giving your newborn a gentle sponge bath:
Prepare the essentials: Gather a bowl of lukewarm water, a soft washcloth, and a mild, fragrance-free baby soap. Lay your baby on a flat, cushioned surface and wrap them in a towel to keep them warm. Only expose the part of the body you're washing at a time, and keep one hand on your baby for safety.
Begin with the head: Dampen the washcloth with lukewarm water and gently wipe your baby's face and scalp, including the creases in the neck and behind the ears.
Clean the rest of the body: Add a small amount of baby soap to the water and use the washcloth to gently cleanse the remaining parts of your baby's body. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
Bathing in bath tu or sink: Once your baby's umbilical cord stump has healed, you can transition to traditional bathing. Here's how to give your baby a bath in a tub or sink
Prepare the bath area: Choose a suitable location for bathing, such as a sink or a small tub. Gather a washcloth, mild baby soap, and baby shampoo if needed.
Ease your baby into the water: Fill the bath with lukewarm water and check the temperature with your wrist to ensure it's comfortable. Slowly lower your baby into the water, starting with their feet, and support their head and neck.
Clean the body: Use the washcloth and baby soap to wash the rest of your baby's body, paying attention to folds, fingers, and toes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
After bathing, wrap your baby in a towel to keep them warm and cozy. If your baby's skin appears dry, consider using a fragrance-free moisturizer or adjusting the frequency of baths.
