Hey moms & dads! Are you planning to give your newborn their first bath? At the same time, are you overwhelmed thinking about the perfect way to do it? The delicate skin, the wiggling baby and a messy soap—all of this can make newborn baby bath seem like a challenging task.
But bath time doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it can become one of the most heartwarming moments of your day. In this blog, we’ll take you through the basics of baby bathing: from when to begin, how often to bathe, and which products are safest for baby's delicate skin.
So stay tuned!
When Should You First Bathe Your Newborn?
Did you know that the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends not bathing your baby until about 24 hours after birth. And here’s why:1
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Body Temperature
Bathing your baby soon after birth carries risk of hypothermia. It can cause a sudden drop in body temperature which can be very risky for your newborn.
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Blood Sugar
Baby bath before the recommended time may also cause a sudden drop of blood sugar. Also known as hypoglycemia, it can be quite risky and needs immediate medical attention.
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Mother-Child Bonding
Bathing too quickly after birth can also hamper mother-child bonding and lower the chances of breastfeeding success.
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Dry Skin
Newborns are born with a natural, waxy coating called the vernix. It’s antibacterial and helps to keep their skin moisturised. Delaying the first bath allows the vernix to stay longer, supporting your baby’s skin health in those early days.
How Often Does My Newborn Need A Bath?
Well, not every day! Bathing your newborn around three times a week is usually enough to meet their basic hygiene needs. Bathing them too frequently can dry out their delicate skin.2 Moreover, they don’t really sweat a lot or go outside and get dirty.
Plus, when you’re regularly changing nappies and burp cloths, you’re already cleaning their major body parts like the face, neck, and diaper area. Just ensure to check and gently clean other regions like the armpits and groin during bath time or with a soft washcloth.
Can My Baby Have A Bath Before The Umbilical Cord Falls Off?
Yes, you can! But make sure that you give them a sponge bath instead of a tub bath until the stump of their umbilical cord falls off.3 This can help to keep the cord area dry while you’re washing the rest of your baby.
This is important because the umbilical cord stump is a wound. And the best way to heal a wound faster is by keeping it clean and dry. Frequent and prolonged wetting can increase the risk of infections.4
Is It Better To Bathe My Baby In The Morning Or At Night?
There’s no hard and fast rule about the timing. You can bathe your baby either in the morning or at night. But choose a time when you’re not in a rush and when you’re less likely to be disturbed in between.2
However, there must be some gap if you plan to bathe your baby after feeding them. This will allow their tummy some time to settle down.2
Is A Sponge Bath Good Enough?
Absolutely! In fact, a sponge bath is the preferred method to bathe your baby until their umbilical cord stump falls off. Here are the steps to follow if you plan to give your baby a sponge bath:2
- Choose a warm place and a firm flat surface to begin with. It could be your bath counter, kitchen counter or even their changing table
- Next, you can spread on some padding such as a towel to put your baby on.
- Ensure to keep your hands free so that you’re able to maintain your grip on the baby.
- Also, ensure that the water temperature is just right. It shouldn’t be too hot or too cold.
- Gather all your bathing supplies such as the sponge, towels and a gentle baby wash.
You can try our pH-balanced, tear-free Baby Head-To-Toe Foam Wash that comes in a pumping bottle. It’s packed with >98% natural and cellularly tested ingredients such as PENTAVITIN® and Aloe Vera, which give 24 hours of post-wash hydration
Bath Time Safety: Water Level & Temperature Tips
You can bathe your baby in a tub or sink layered with a towel. But it’s extremely important to not let them unattended even for a second. To ensure this, keep all the essential bathing supplies like baby wash and towels, handy beforehand.2
Fill the tub with about 2 inches of warm water (about 38 degrees celsius). Check the water temperature before you start. And hold your baby firmly at all times while bathing them.2
What's The Best Way To Hold My Newborn In The Tub?
Hold your baby firmly yet gently in the tub. Use your weaker arm to support their head and body, while your stronger hand applies the wash and cleans them. Always start with their feet upward, making sure the head and face stay safely above water at all times.2
Avoid bathing your baby directly under running water. Once done, wrap them in a soft towel and move them to a warm, cozy room.2
Should I Wash My Newborn's Hair?
You can feel free to wash your baby’s hair if you think it needs one. With the dominant hand, apply a small amount of our baby wash and gently rub it into their scalp. The wash will gently cleanse their scalp and also get rid of cradle cap if any.2
Final Words
A baby bath can be a joyous experience if done right. Just remember to follow the right tips, techniques, and products to keep your baby’s skin safe and nourished. From checking the water temperature to picking the gentlest wash, it’s the little things that make a big difference. After all, bath time isn’t just about getting them clean, it’s about comfort, bonding, and those tiny giggles you’ll remember forever.
FAQs
Q1) How Long Do You Have To Wait To Give A Baby A Bath After Birth?
It's best to wait at least 24 hours after birth before giving your baby their first bath.1
Q2) What Is The Best Time For Baby Bath?
There’s no fixed time. Just choose a moment when you’re relaxed, unhurried, and less likely to be interrupted.2
Q3) How To Wash Newborn Hair?
Use a damp, soft cloth or gently pour water over their head while supporting it, using a mild baby shampoo if needed.2
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