How to Bathe Newborn Babies

Bathing a newborn baby can be daunting for a first-time parent or for someone who is not used to handling newborns. Remember, though, that bathing a newborn baby isn't an activity to be feared -- rather, it's a time to bond with the infant while keeping her clean and healthy.

Things You'll Need

  • Infant tub
  • Mild soap and baby shampoo
  • Soft cloth
  • Hooded towel
  • Baby lotion
  • Clean diaper
  • Clean clothes

Instructions

    • 1

      Lay out a hooded towel, diaper and clean clothing and ensure the room is properly heated. The room should be warm for your baby, and the clothing, diaper and towel should be readily accessible next to the tub. You should be able to remove your baby from the infant tub and place him directly onto the towel with no delays.

    • 2

      Prepare the bath water in the infant tub. The water should be warm (test the heat on your elbow) but not too hot, since it is easy to accidentally scald the skin of a newborn. Make sure the depth of the water does not exceed 2 inches.

    • 3

      Undress your newborn and slowly place him into the water, allowing him to get used to the temperature while supporting his neck and head. If your baby cries excessively or seems extremely uncomfortable, consider leaving the diaper on during the bath to help provide a sense of security.

    • 4

      Wash your baby's face first using a soft wash cloth and no soap. Move from the face to the dirtiest parts of the baby's body and continually trickle warm water over her during the bath to keep her from getting cold. Wash her hair last with a mild baby shampoo and rinse it gently.

    • 5

      Remove your baby from the water and to the waiting towel. Cover his head immediately. Dry your baby carefully by patting him with the towel; do not rub your newborn since this will irritate his sensitive skin. Apply lotion to your baby's skin so that it does not lose moisture, then diaper and dress your fresh-smelling baby.

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