Baby bath basics: A parent's guide

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Are you nervous about giving your newborn baby a bath? Bathing a slippery baby may feel scary at first, but with a little practice, you'll start to feel more comfortable at bath time. Start by learning baby bath basics.

How often does my newborn need a bath?

You don't need to bathe your newborn every day. Three times a week might be enough until your baby becomes more mobile. Bathing your baby too much can dry out your baby's skin.

If you're quick and thorough with diaper changes and burp cloths, you're already cleaning the parts that need attention, such as the face, neck and diaper area. Between baths, you also may check the folds of your baby's skin, including thighs, groin, armpits and chin. If needed, clean these areas with a wet washcloth.

Is it better to bathe my baby in the morning or at night?

That's up to you. Choose a time when you're not rushed or likely to be interrupted. Some parents opt for morning baths when their babies are alert. Others prefer to make baby baths part of a calming bedtime ritual. If you bathe your baby after a feeding, consider waiting for your baby's tummy to settle a bit first.

Is a sponge bath good enough?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends sponge baths until the umbilical cord stump falls off, which might take a week or two. To give your baby a sponge bath, you'll need:

• A warm place with a flat surface. A bathroom or kitchen counter, changing table, or firm bed will work. Even a blanket or towel on the floor is OK. Pad hard surfaces with a blanket or towel.
• A soft blanket, towel or changing pad. Spread it out for your baby to lie on.
• A free hand. Always keep one hand on your baby. On a changing table, use the safety strap as well.
• A sink or shallow basin to hold the water. Run warm water into the basin or sink. Check the water temperature with your hand to make sure it's not too hot.
• Essential supplies. Gather a washcloth, a towel, preferably with a built-in hood, fragrance-free baby shampoo and soap, baby wipes, a clean diaper, and a change of clothes.

Take off your baby's clothes and diaper and wrap your baby in a towel. Lay your baby on its back in the prepared area. To keep your baby warm, uncover only the parts of your baby's body that you're washing. Wet the washcloth with plain, warm water. Then wring out excess water and wipe your baby's face. Wipe each eyelid from the inside to the outside corner.

To clean your baby's body, use a dampened washcloth dipped in plain or soapy water. If you use soap, make sure it's mild and moisturizing. Pay special attention to creases under the arms, behind the ears, around the neck and in the diaper area. Also wash between your baby's fingers and toes.

What type of baby tub is best?

Once your baby is ready for a bath, you might use a plastic tub or the sink. Line the tub or sink with a clean towel. Gather the supplies you'd use for a sponge bath, a cup of rinsing water and baby shampoo, if needed, ahead of time. This will allow you to keep one hand on the baby at all times. Never leave your baby alone in the water.

How much water should I put in the tub?

A common recommendation is 2 inches (about 5 centimeters). During bath time, always be sure to give your baby your complete attention and hold your baby securely. If you forget something you need for the bath, take your baby with you. Never leave your baby alone in the tub, even for an instant.

What about water temperature?

Warm water is best. To prevent scalding, set the thermostat on your water heater to below 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). Always check the water temperature with your hand before bathing your baby. Aim for bath water around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Be sure the room is comfortably warm too. A wet baby can be easily chilled.

What's the best way to hold my newborn in the tub?

A secure hold will help your baby feel comfortable and stay safe in the tub. Use your arm that you don't use the most, called the nondominant arm, to support your baby's head and neck. Use the other arm to hold and guide your baby's body into the water, feet first. Keep supporting your baby's head and back as needed. You might reach behind your baby and hold on to the baby's opposite arm throughout the bath.

What should I wash first?

Most parents start with the baby's head and face and move down to dirtier parts of the body. This keeps rinsed areas from getting soapy again.

Should I wash my newborn's hair?

If your newborn has hair and you think it needs washing, go ahead. With your free hand, gently massage a drop of mild baby shampoo into your baby's scalp. Rinse the shampoo with a cup of water or a damp washcloth, cupping one hand across your baby's forehead to keep suds out of the eyes.

Will lotion after a baby bath help prevent rashes?

Most newborns don't need lotion after a bath. If your baby's skin is very dry, apply a small amount of unscented baby moisturizer to the dry areas. If dryness continues, you might be bathing your baby too often.