Fitness And Sport Info

Remember, when bathing baby (and all other duties), you are the adult in charge. Bathing baby takes some preparation to keep the process running smoothly, safer and a happier experience for both of you.

Newborn babies only require a sponge bath with warm water and mild soap during their first week or two, until the umbilical cord stump dries and falls off. A sponge bath every two or three days is sufficient, depending on diaper and spit-up activity. Be sure to wash your baby’s hands and face clean often and thoroughly clean genital area during diaper changes.

After the umbilical cord stump has fallen off, bath time can be accomplished in a plastic washtub or the kitchen sink. Prepare bath supplies: mild soap, washcloth and towel; keep within arm’s reach of the bath. Make sure the room is warm, too. Only fill the bath with two or three inches of warm water, about 32 degrees Celsius.

Remain calm and talk soothing to the baby while setting the baby into the warm water. Maintain a solid grip, keeping in mind now the baby and water is getting slippery with the application of soap, but you are in charge and the tub sides will keep the baby from slipping totally out of control. Some babies cry, some babies relax and poop, while other babies get sleepy during bath time. Bath time is only a few moments in a day, so throughout the day keep baby’s hands, face and diaper area clean with warm and moist wipes. Towel baby dry with a hooded towel, then wrap them up with the hood warming their head.

Bath Safety Tips
- Never leave bathing baby unattended in the bath. Wrap the bathing baby in a towel, suds and all, if you must leave the bath area once you have begun.
- Make sure the bath water is about 32 degrees Celsius. Do not keep water running after baby is in bathtub or sink, water temperature fluctuations can be harmful at worst and disturbing at least.

One Response to “How to Bathe Your Newborn Baby: A Definitive Guide”