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How to bathe a baby

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When to bathe a baby?

Most babies do not need a bath every day. With their regular nappy changes and face-wiping after feeding, a bath every other day is usually enough. In fact, bathing your baby too often can dry out their skin. Bathing can be done at any time of day and it is best to start with sponge baths and avoid tub baths until your baby's umbilical cord falls off.

What you need

Items you will need for bathing your young baby include:

Before giving your baby a bath, remember to:

What not to do

When bathing your baby, do NOT:

How to give a sponge bath

Sponge baths should be used instead of tub baths until your baby's umbilical cord falls off or, if they have been circumcised, until their circumcision wound heals, to reduce the risk of infection. When giving a sponge bath:

How to give a tub bath

Sometimes, particularly the first few times, babies do not like being bathed. If this is the case, you can try talking to them softly, or use bath toys. When you give your baby a tub bath, be sure to:

References

  1. Bathing and Skin Care for the Newborn | UCLA Health Library - Los Angeles CA. Accessed 26 November 2014 from link here

5 Most frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What do I need to bathe my baby?
You will need a soft washcloth and a clean basin, sink, or baby bathtub. Baby shampoo and soap can be used. Be sure to use baby products, as babies have more sensitive skin than adults and require special products. Alternatively, if your baby isn't particularly dirty, you can bathe a baby using just warm water. A thick towel or bath cushion is also good to sit your baby on in the sink or basin. Be sure to have a dry towel or blanket on hand to wrap your baby in after their bath.
How often should I give my baby a bath?
There is no need to bathe your baby every day. With the wiping they receive after feeding and nappy changes, most babies only need a bath every other day. Bathing them several times a week can dry out their skin.
How much water should I put in the baby bathtub?
It is debatable how much water to use. Some people advise a water level of just 5-8 centimeters and keeping your baby warm during their bath by pouring warm water over their body. Others say that a water level that covers your baby's shoulders can reduce heat loss. However much water you use, it is important to remember to hold your baby properly during their bath, keeping one hand supporting their head and neck and all times.
Should I clean behind my baby boy's foreskin?
The foreskin is fused to the head of the penis and retracts on its own around the age of puberty. Until then, there is no need to clean under it.
Should I use soap when bathing my baby?
Soap is not necessary, but if it is to be used, then be sure to use baby soap. Baby skin is more delicate than adult skin and products made for adults can be too harsh on baby skin.

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About this article

Title: How to bathe a baby

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)

First Published: 14 Jul 2015

Last reviewed: 17 Jan 2022

Category: Information on How to bathe a baby

Average rating: 4.2 out of 5 (1399 votes)

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