How to Bathe a Newborn Baby at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted by Moshe Shimon · April 27, 2018

If you’re a new parent and have no experience at all when it comes to bathing your newborn, there’s no need to worry. Here’s how to bathe your baby step-by-step. Just remember to be gentle when doing so.

In this part, we want to inform you of precautions you should take when giving your newborn a bath. First, always hold your infant while giving a bath and never leave him or her unattended.

A baby can drown even in a one-inch deep water within a minute. Second is to put water first before putting your baby in. Running water from the faucet can be too hot for the baby.

Third, the ideal water temperature is around 90 degrees. Any higher and your child can get a burn. Now, let’s proceed to give a bath step-by-step.

Step 1. Set the Room Temperature

The room should not be cold as babies tend to drop body temperature fast. The ideal room temperature should be around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Set the temperature at least 2 minutes before giving a bath.

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Step 2. Prepare Baby Bath Supplies

You need to have an adequate surface for the tub and bath suppliers. For the baby tub, there are those that are flexible in size so you can still use if as your baby gets bigger. For newborns, using a baby bath soap is optional. Make sure you use a baby soap that is safe, mild and tear-free. Other items you have to prepare are washcloths, small cup, towel, diaper, and clothes. It is recommended that you put a towel in the tub so your baby doesn’t slip.

Step 3. Fill the Tub with Water

Mix hot and cold water until you achieve the right temperature. Fill the tub 2 to 3 inches deep but no deeper than that. Use your elbow to test the water since it is more sensitive than your hand and is the best water thermometer.

Step 4. Put Baby in the Tub

Undress your infant completely and then slowly slip him into the tub, feet first. Use one hand to support the neck of the baby throughout the bathing process.

Step 5. Clean the Different Body Parts

When giving a bath, start with the cleanest part: the face. Wet a clean cotton ball and then wipe the eyelids gently, and then clean around the ear. Wipe the face with a washcloth, going down the chin and neck, shoulders, stomach, backside and so on. When washing baby genitals, do so from front to back to avoid urinary tract infection. When using baby bath soap, use just a small amount and then rinse carefully.

Photo by Mindy Olson P on Unsplash

Step 6. Gently Lift the Baby from the Tub and Wrap in a Towel

While still supporting the neck and back of the baby, gently lift him out of the tub and wrap him up in a towel.

Step 7. Wash the Head

While wrapped in a towel, position the head of your baby above the tub. Using a cup, pour water on the head. This will keep the water and shampoo away from the baby’s eyes. Rub the hair softly and then rinse.

Step 8. Pat Dry and Dress

Pat the towel on your baby softly. Do not rub the skin because it’s still very delicate. Gently press the fingers and toes to pat them dry. And then put on the diaper and onesies. Apply baby lotion, hug and kiss a baby, and voila!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn Baby?

Two to three times a week is enough because too much washing can irritate baby’s skin.

How Long Should a Baby Bath Last?

Keep it short especially if the baby starts crying right at the start. 5 minutes is enough time for giving your baby a bath.

When is the Best Time to Bathe a Baby?

There’s no specific ideal time, just make sure that your baby is well rested, not hungry and not full either. Bathing the baby in the evening will boost to a good nights sleep.