Taking a bath can be an enjoyable and educational time for you to spend with your baby. Your baby will likely enjoy the sensation of splashing and playing with water toys. Bathing a baby takes care and precaution. You will need the right supplies and your baby will need constant supervision.
Step 1
Choose a safe baby bathtub. Kids Health reports that baby bathtubs allow you to safely bathe your wet and slippery baby because they keep your baby sitting upright. When you are deciding which baby bathtub to buy, Kids Health cautions you to avoid bath rings, baby flotation devices and suction seats. Your final choice should be a tub that cannot tip over and should have an anti-slip back to keep it from moving around.
Step 2
Gather all necessary bathing supplies and place them within arms reach before filling the tub with water or placing your baby in the tub. According to Healthy Children, a website created by the American Academy of Pediatrics, you will need to keep one hand on your baby at all times to prevent accidents. Having your soap, shampoo, washcloth and towel where you can easily get to them will make bathing your baby safe and easy.
Step 3
Get your baby clean. Healthy Children reports that plain water is fine for many babies, but baby soaps and shampoos are convenient as well. You only need 3 or 4 inches of water, says Healthy Children, because it is plenty for cleaning, but also prevents your baby from slipping underwater while you are bathing her.
Use warm water that is no hotter than 120 degrees, says Kids Health, to prevent hot water burns. Lower your hot water heater temperature or install an anti-scald device to monitor the temperature of the water, recommends Kids Health.
Place your baby in the water and wash her diaper area and skin folds to ensure proper cleanliness. Washcloths are useful for gently scrubbing your baby, recommends Healthy Children.
Step 4
Allow your baby to play and enjoy the sensation of being in the water. Miriam Stoppard, author of "Complete Baby and Child Care," suggests giving your baby a variety of different items to play with including bath toys, sponges or kitchen utensils, such as bowls and cups. Encourage your baby to splash with and fill the items as she pleases.
Step 5
After washing and playing, gently remove your baby from the tub and wrap her in a towel. Snuggle her and dry her off. Healthy Children recommends asking your doctor about using baby moisturizer. There are many varieties to choose from and you want to ensure that you choose the one that is best for your baby's skin. Dress your baby in a diaper and clean clothes and enjoy the scent of a freshly cleaned baby.
Tips and Warnings
- Bathing can be entertaining for you and your baby. Encourage her to play and experience the water by showing her how to splash, make waves and interact with toys.
- Never leave your baby unattended in the bathtub. Do not leave the room to answer the phone or the door or for any other reason.
Things You'll Need
- Baby bathtub
- Baby soap
- Washcloth
- Towel
- Baby lotion
- Diaper
- Clothing
References
- Kids Health: Choosing Safe Baby Products: Bathtubs
- Healthy Children: Preparing Your Bathing Area
- "Complete Baby and Child Care"; Miriam Stoppard; 2006
- Kids Health: Household Safety: Preventing Burns, Shocks and Fires
