Essential Tips for Newborn Bathing Care

Bathing a newborn can be a delightful task for new parents. Ensuring your baby’s safety and comfort during their first baths is crucial.

When to Start Bathing Your Newborn?

For the first week or so, until the umbilical cord stump falls off, it’s best to stick to sponge baths. Once the stump has healed, you can begin giving your baby regular baths.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Newborn?

Newborns don’t need daily baths. Bathing them two to three times a week is sufficient. Over-bathing can dry out their delicate skin. On non-bath days, you can simply clean their face, neck, and diaper area with a damp cloth.

Preparing for the Bath

1. Gather Supplies: Ensure you have everything you need within reach before starting the bath.

2. Water Temperature: Fill the tub with about 2-3 inches of warm water. Always test the water with your wrist or elbow to ensure it’s not too hot or cold.

3. Safety First: Place the baby bathmat or bathtub on a flat, stable surface. Never leave your baby unattended during a bath. Be gentle to avoid getting water in their eyes and ears during bath. Provide support to their head and neck, and wrap them in a hooded towel and pat at their skin dry gently after bath.

After the Bath

1. Moisturize: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free baby lotion if your baby’s skin is dry.

2. Diaper and Dress: Put on a clean diaper and dress your baby in comfortable clothes.

It is better to avoid kajal and talcum powder as they may cause allergies and other respiratory infections. Additionally, applying oil after a bath is not recommended.

Bathing your newborn can be a bonding experience that both you and your baby will cherish. With these tips and a little practice, you’ll become more comfortable and confident in giving your baby a safe and soothing bath. Remember, each baby is unique, so find what works best for you and your little one. Enjoy this precious time together!

Summary:Newborn bathing care: Ensure safety and comfort by starting with sponge baths until the umbilical cord heals, then bathe 2-3 times weekly with warm water. Never leave the baby unattended and moisturize post-bath. Avoid kajal and talcum powder for allergy prevention. Enjoy the bonding experience!

Reshmi Mohan A
Child Developmental Therapist
SUT Hospital, Pattom