It's Time For Your Baby's Bath - BathTime Basics

Bathtime with your newborn baby for the first time can be both exciting and scary. This is usually because the parents are not quite sure how to go about it and they are afraid of hurting their baby. If done properly, there is no need for concern and it can be a very enjoyable experience for both you and your baby. There are, however, some helpful tips you should follow when bathing your newborn.

First, you should not worry about putting your baby in a baby tub until their umbilical cord stump has fallen out. You also want to give their naval area some time to heal. This doesn't mean that you neglect to clean your baby during this time. What you want to do instead is sponge bathe your baby. You can do this two or three times a week to keep your baby clean and smelling good.

Now, once your baby has reached the point where she can have a bath, you will want to be sure to have your area completely set up before you begin and make sure that the room you choose to bathe your baby in is warm. Babies tend to get chilled quickly and they dislike the feeling of cold air on their bare skin. Next, you will set up your area with a towel or changing pad for your baby to lie on, an extra towel to dry your baby off afterwards, a small basin or baby tub of lukewarm water, cotton balls, a washcloth, baby soap and tear-free shampoo.

Fill up the tub only a couple of inches of warm (not hot) water and be sure to test it with your elbow before placing your baby in. Add some mild baby wash on your washcloth and gently create a good lather on your baby's skin. Be sure you are cradling your baby's head (if newborn) with your arm for support while you bathe her. You can use the same baby wash for your baby's hair or a separate tear-proof shampoo designed for babies. If your baby has cradle cap, you can gently loosen it up with a small baby brush while you shampoo her hair.

Use the cotton balls to clean your baby's eyes (a separate cotton ball for each eye) and for her face as this is very sensitive. Also, there is no need to use any baby wash on this area. Once done soaping, you can gently rinse your baby off and then wrap them snug in the towel (or blanket) that you have waiting. Be sure to dry her thoroughly, apply lotion and dress.

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