How to bathe a newborn | Practical and safe guide

Welcome to the Newborn Tips blog, the reference point for all new parents looking for practical and safe advice for the care of their baby. In today’s article we will answer one of the most frequently asked questions among mothers and fathers: how to bathe a newborn?

Stay tuned until the end to find out everything you need to know to transform this moment into a serene and pleasant experience, both for you and your little one. From the precautions to follow to the fundamental steps, we will guide you step by step to make bathing a simple and safe ritual.

Table of contents

When to give a baby their first bath?

Generally, a newborn’s first bath can be given after the umbilical stump falls off (usually between 7 and 14 days of life).

Until then, it is recommended to sponge cleanse (also called “dry bath”) to keep the infant clean without completely immersing him in water.

How to give a newborn baby their first bath?

Since a newborn’s first bath is a special moment that can generate a bit of anxiety in new parents, with a few simple precautions it will become a sweet and peaceful experience. Here are the steps to follow.

Prepare everything you need before starting:

A baby tub or a very clean sink
How many degrees should the water be for a newborn’s bath? In reality, the water should be lukewarm, with a temperature of around 36-37°C (checked with a thermometer or the back of your hand)
A soft towel
A delicate baby cleanser (optional, often just water is enough)
Cotton pads or a natural sponge
A clean change of clothes and diaper

How to wash newborns?

Choose a warm environment, without drafts
Hold the baby with one hand under the head and the other to support the body
Immerse him gradually, starting from the feet, keeping the head always out of the water
Gently wash the face and head with clean water, without soap
For the body, use a small amount of delicate cleanser if necessary
Rinse well and delicately

What to put after bathing the newborn?

Wrap the newborn in a soft towel, patting gently without rubbing
Dry the skin folds carefully to avoid irritation
Apply a gentle moisturizer if the skin is dry

How do you wash a newborn in the first days of life?

Since immediately after birth, when the umbilical stump has not yet fallen off, a complete bath should be avoided to prevent infections, in the following lines we explain how to wash newborns in the first few days:

1) Sponge cleaning:

Use a soft sponge or cotton pads moistened with warm water
Gently clean the face, neck, hands, armpits, skin folds and diaper area
Change the water often to maintain cleanliness

2) Umbilical cord care:

Keep the stump dry and clean
If necessary, clean around it with a sterile gauze moistened with warm water and dry well

3) Intimate hygiene:

For the diaper area, use warm water and cotton. Avoid scented wipes that can irritate delicate skin
Dab gently to dry

By following these simple steps, you will keep your newborn clean and protected, turning the moment of care into an occasion of cuddles and tenderness.

How to bathe a newborn alone?

To tell the truth, bathing a newborn alone can seem challenging, especially the first few times, but with the right organization it will become a special moment of cuddles and tranquility. Here is everything you need to know:

Preparation:

Prepare everything you need before starting: towel, clean diaper, clothes, delicate detergent, soft sponge, and thermometer for the water
Make sure the room is warm (about 22-24°C) to avoid sudden changes in temperature

How to hold the newborn during bathing?

Support the baby’s head and neck with your forearm, keeping your hand under the armpit
With the other hand, gently wash the body
If you are worried about the baby slipping, use an ergonomic tub with a non-slip support or a tub reducer

When to bathe a newborn?

In short, there is no “right” time, but some times of the day may be more suitable:

In the evening: for many newborns, bathing has a relaxing effect and helps create a bedtime routine.

After feeding? Avoid doing it immediately after eating to prevent spitting up; wait at least 30 minutes.

When the newborn is awake and calm: do not do it if he is too tired or hungry.

Bathing newborn frequency: how many times a week?

In all honesty, newborns do not need to be bathed every day. In fact, bathing too often can dry out your baby’s delicate skin.

Let’s see below how often you should bathe your little one:

Newborns (0-3 months): 2-3 times a week is enough. Newborn skin is very delicate and frequent washing could dry it out.

If it’s hot or your baby sweats a lot: you can give him a light bath more often, even just with water.

Daily cleaning: even on days without a bath, clean his face, hands, diaper area and skin folds with warm water and a soft sponge.

Bath time

First of all, baby baths don’t have to be long and tiring. In fact, a quick and fun bath is the best way to keep your little one clean and happy.

For newborns: 5-10 minutes is enough, especially in the first few months.

For older children: when they start to enjoy the water, you can extend the time a little, always under close supervision.

Water temperature for bathing a newborn

The ideal temperature for bathing a newborn is around 36-37°C, similar to an infant’s body temperature.

Also, to check that the temperature is right, use a bath thermometer or check with your elbow or wrist (it should not be too hot or cold).

Later, when winter arrives, keep the room warm and dry the baby immediately to prevent him from catching a cold.

Instead, in summer, you can use slightly cooler water (34-35 ° C), if the baby likes it.

What products should you use for bathing a newborn?

Especially when it comes to products for bathing a newborn, less is more. Considering that newborn skin is very delicate and can easily be irritated by aggressive soaps and shampoos.

Below, we will see which products are safe and suitable for bathing your baby, and how to choose the best ones for his needs:

Gentle cleanser: choose a product specifically for newborns, without perfumes or aggressive substances. In many cases, water alone is sufficient for the first few months

Shampoo: only if necessary, preferably without tears

Bath oil: optional, for very dry skin (ask your pediatrician for advice)

How much should I fill my baby’s tub?

The right amount of water for a baby’s bath is essential for their safety and comfort. Too much water could cause them to lose body heat, while too little water may not be enough for a relaxing bath.

For newborns: 5-7 cm of water is sufficient, just enough to cover the legs and part of the torso.

Clarification: do not overfill to ensure maximum safety and always keep one hand on the baby.

How to dry your baby after a bath?

After a relaxing bath, it is important to dry your baby carefully and delicately. Below we will look at the essential steps to dry him safely and comfortably, avoiding irritation and keeping him warm.

Pat gently: use a soft towel (perhaps with a hood for the head) and pat the skin without rubbing.

Pay attention to skin folds: dry the folds of the neck, armpits, behind the ears, between the fingers and toes to prevent irritation.

Moisturize: if the skin is dry, apply a delicate cream or oil specifically for newborns.

Baby Safety Tips During Bath

Never leave your baby alone, not even for a few seconds
Beware of slips: always keep a hand on the baby
Constant supervision: even if the water level is low

So by following these tips, bathing your baby will become a pleasant and safe ritual for you and your little one!

Precautions on how to bathe your baby

Short bath: limit the duration to 5-7 minutes.

Warm environment: avoid sudden changes in temperature; the room must be well heated.

Quick drying: dry the baby immediately by patting gently and dress him in warm clothes.

Hydration: if the baby has a fever, make sure he is well hydrated (offer milk often, both breast milk and formula).

Temperature control: monitor the fever before and after the bath to notice any changes.

When should you consult your pediatrician before bathing?

In order to make bathing your newborn a special moment, it is important to be prepared.

Therefore, in some cases, it is advisable to consult your pediatrician before starting to bathe your little one, below we will see when:

Persistent high fever
Severe skin infections or widespread rashes
Difficulty breathing
Signs of dehydration (dry lips, dry diapers for more than 6 hours)
A very lethargic newborn or one that is difficult to wake up

As a final point, we would like to point out that the information provided in this article on ‘how to bathe a newborn’ is for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a doctor. If you have any doubts or concerns about bathing your little one, always consult your pediatrician. Finally, remember that your baby’s health is the top priority, and a medical professional is the best resource for any questions or concerns.

Newborn Tips, The Editors