Bathing Your Baby
Newborns only need 2-3 baths per week (daily baths can dry skin). Sponge baths until umbilical cord falls off (1-3 weeks), then can do tub baths.
Bath temperature: 98-100°F (lukewarm, not hot). Test with elbow or bath thermometer. Room should be warm (75°F+) to prevent chilling.
Keep baths short: 5-10 minutes max. Use gentle, fragrance-free baby soap sparingly - water alone is fine for most of body.
What to Do
- Gather supplies first: towel, washcloth, soap, clean diaper, clothes
- Fill tub with 2-3 inches of warm water (98-100°F) - test temperature with elbow
- Undress baby and lower into water slowly, supporting head and neck
- Keep one hand supporting baby at all times - babies are slippery when wet
- Wash face first with plain water (no soap), then body, diaper area last
- Use mild, fragrance-free soap sparingly - only on dirty areas
- Lift baby out, wrap immediately in towel (babies lose heat quickly)
- Pat dry gently, especially in skin folds (neck, armpits, diaper area, behind ears)
- NEVER answer door/phone during bath - bring baby with you or wait