A Complete Guide to Baby's First Bath and Safety Tips

Editor: Nidhi Sood on Oct 29,2024

The happiness of introducing a baby to his new home is never comparable to anything here. But it comes with specific challenges. One common concern that parents usually have is how to prepare the baby for their first bath. This is the first time your baby will touch the water. Usually, it's harmless, provided that you have taken all the necessary precautions. Let us walk you through this article to help you choose the right tub to protect your baby's umbilical stump and ensure a safe and happy bath time. Let's begin!

Choosing the Right Baby Tub for Bath

Bath time for a newborn differs from that of an older baby, and the proper tub selection will make bathing safer and more comfortable for your baby. Here are some popular options for every stage:

Sink Inserts for Newborns:

• Overview: Sink inserts are soft, padded cushions that fit snugly into your sink, creating a secure space for your baby.
• Benefits: They're excellent for newborns who need extra support and comfort. They keep your baby cozy and allow you to stand comfortably while washing them.
• Considerations: Only suitable for young infants; you'll need a giant tub as your baby grows. Make sure the insert fits securely to prevent slipping.

Newborn Baby First Bath: Step-by-Step Process

Before you start, ensure that everything you will need is at hand. This way, your focus will be solely on the baby and nothing else to distract you while bathing.

1. Gather Bath Time Supplies

• Baby Soap and Shampoo: Choose a fragrance-free, tear-free, and hypoallergenic shampoo and soap designed for infant skin
• Washcloth: Utilize a soft washcloth to bathe the tender skin of your baby, usually covered with vernix caseosa. 
• Rinsing Cup: A small plastic cup or pitcher will rinse the soap off without splashing
• Hooded Towel: The hooded towel will keep your baby warm and cozy after the bath, covering them from head to toe.
• Lotion or Oil: A soft moisturizer can protect the baby's skin during bathing.

2. Check Water Temperature

The water temperature for the baby's first bath should be 98-100 degrees Fahrenheit or 37-38 degrees Celsius. You may test it using a baby thermometer or placing your wrist on the water.

3. Prepare a Safe and Comfortable Environment

Ensure the room is warm because newborns can be sensitive to cold temperatures. Keep all bath essentials near you and avoid distractions so you can give your full attention to ensuring your baby's safety and experience.

4. Lower the Baby Gently into the Water

Hold the head and neck and slowly sink them into the water. The head and neck should remain afloat throughout the whole time. Always support the baby with one hand.

5. Soft Towel Bath

Wet up a soft, clean towel. Bathe your infant gently, front to back, beginning face first. If using soap, keep it to a minimum. Avoid the eyes when soaping up. If there is an umbilical stump on your baby, you want to wipe the diaper area by using sponges for bath time.

6. Bathe Quickly and Cautiously

Using a small cup, gently wash the soap off your baby. Do not let the bath last long, as it may cause your baby to catch a chill.

7. Wrap in a Hooded Towel and Pat Dry

You should pick your baby up immediately and place it inside a hooded towel to warm it. Then, rub softly over its skin, especially on those folds, and moisturize if needed.

Newborn Bath Safety Tips

A baby needs more care in the bathroom as babies are fragile and are prone to slipping. This is how you can make your baby's first bath safe and secure:

Support Your Baby's Head and Neck

Support your baby's head and neck throughout the bath for at least the first few months. Never let go of your baby while they're in the water.

Newborn Stump Care

Keep the area around the stump clean to avoid infections. Avoid dunking the baby in the water until the stump dries and falls out (usually in 1-3 weeks). Begin with sponge bathtimes, wetting him with a clean, lukewarm wet towel. Soak just around that stump, which avoids getting soaked wet at all. Continue letting this air dry.

Also read: A Guide to Umbilical Cord Care: What Parents Should Know

Avoid Using Too Much Soap

Newborn babies' skin is delicate, so they should not be exposed to harsh soap. Water alone would suffice for washing, but soap must be mild and safe for babies if soap has to be used.

Keep the Bath Time Short

Newborn babies do not need long baths. Your little one should be able to have a quick 5-10 minute bath. They can chill very fast, so ensure they are warm during washing.

Never Leave Your Baby in the Bathroom Alone

Never leave your baby alone in the bath for even a second. Babies can drown underwater in a split second, so always keep an eye on them.

Smooth and Calm Bathing Time Tips

Bath time can be an excellent soothing routine for both the parents and the baby if a few things are adjusted to ensure a smooth and calm experience.

Create a Relaxing Atmosphere

Play soft music, keep dimmed lights, and even whisper to your baby. These minor tweaks make the baby feel easygoing and can even prevent tension you might experience as a new mother or father.

Warm Towel

Use a warm towel for the baby while bathing so that he won't get anxious or shiver, making the first bath more soothing. Even with newborn babies, this has the effect that cool air will not shock them, as they are warmed when this is done.

Dry and Dress ASAP

Minutes after the baby's bath time, dry the baby using a light towel, preferably one that covers the head to protect it from the wind. Removing all the remaining water is unnecessary; you can pat this off when paying particular attention to the baby's skin folds, such as the underarm, neck folds, the diaper area, etc., because moisture sticks to some extent there.

Apply Lotion When Wet

Applying a slight oil, moisturizer, or lotion after a bath is best to protect the skin from cracking. When choosing anything to use, one can always opt for those designed to minimize irritation.

Suggested read: Newborn Baby Care Tips: A Quick Guide For First-Time Parents

Conclusion

Your baby's first bath is both an exciting and intimate time. All that is needed is essential preparation to get set with your little bundle. Remember, every baby is unique, and it might take a few tries to get into a routine that suits you and your baby. So, consider this stage in the new journey as a mother, and with every bathing session, it becomes more straightforward for you and your little one. Having developed a calm environment, considering these tips makes bath time so unique that you end up cherishing every moment while focusing on bonding, nurturing, or making those memories for an eternity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does my newborn need a bath?

A newborn does not need to be bathed each day. In most cases, washing takes two or three days, as over-bathing can cause skin to dry and crack. Otherwise, you can clean her face, neck, and diaper area with a warm cloth.

What's best: Morning bathing vs. Nighttime Bath for Baby?

Baby baths are not set for a specific time; they are just as you like. Some people like taking their babies for a bath in the morning when they are most awake and alert, while others have them take an evening bath to relax before going to sleep. Try both to determine which works best for your baby's mood and routine.

How early can I begin using soap and shampoo on my infant?

For newborns, tap water is usually all that is required. Soap and shampoo can be used gently and fragrance-free in just a few weeks, if rarely enough not to dry their skin. Use baby products only.

How can I clean around my infant's eyes and face to prevent irritation?

Use a damp, soft, soapless washcloth to clean the baby's face. Clean each eye separately using a fresh cloth, starting from the inside and moving out. This way, soap cannot be brought to this sensitive area.

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