Newborns need sponge baths until the umbilical cord falls off and, if applicable, until the circumcision has healed, according to the Kids Health website. The umbilical cord stump normally falls off within a month, and the circumcision heals within two weeks. A newborn baby does not need a daily bath. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, giving your newborn a bath every day can dry out her skin. You'll hear no complaints from your baby, because most newborns don't enjoy their first few baths. Using patience and creating a gentle, soothing atmosphere, you will find that bathing your baby becomes easier each time you do it.
Step 1
Gather everything you will need before you begin. Keep it within easy reach of you and the baby.
Step 2
Spread a blanket or towel out on a flat surface where you plan to wash the baby.
Step 3
Fill a sink or bowl with a few inches of water. Test the temperature of the water with your elbow. Your elbow is more reliable than your hand.
Step 4
Undress and place your baby on her back on the towel or blanket. Keep the baby partially covered. Only expose the areas being washed.
Step 5
Keep one hand on your baby at all times.
Step 6
Clean the baby's eyes with plain water and cotton balls.
Step 7
Submerge the washcloth into the water, and wring out the excess. Use the washcloth to wash the baby's face, hair, outer ears and neck creases. Dry the areas.
Step 8
Wash her chest, arms, hands and abdomen. Dry these areas.
Step 9
Wash the baby's legs and feet. Dry them with the towel.
Step 10
Remove your baby's diaper. Place the baby on her tummy with the baby's head turned to the side. Cleanse the baby's back and buttocks. Dry before returning her to her back.
Step 11
Apply a hypoallergenic baby lotion. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, applying a moisturizer immediately following a bath can relieve dry skin.
Step 12
Apply diaper cream. Put a diaper and clothing on your newborn.
Step 13
Switch to an infant bathtub, once the umbilical stump has fallen off, and the area has healed.
Tips and Warnings
- Soap is usually unnecessary for washing a newborn; however, mild baby soap can be used. Avoid washing the face with soap. Place towels and blankets being used into the dryer approximately 10 minutes before bath time, so they are warm for the baby. You want the towels warm, not hot. Keep the baby's diaper on until you are ready to clean his bottom. This will avoid unnecessary messes that are more than likely to happen with an undiapered newborn. If needed, a space heater can be used to warm the room before giving a baby a bath. According to "What to Expect the First Year," writers Arlene Eisenberg, Heidi Murkoff and Sandee Hathaway recommend the room should be between 75 to 80 degrees F. If you need to wash your baby's hair, wrap your baby in a towel and--using the football hold--work at a sink faucet. Avoid the eyes, use tear-free baby shampoo, and always test the temperature of the water.
- Never leave your newborn alone during a bath. According to Cleveland Clinic, it only takes a few seconds for a baby to drown. The baby will be extremely slippery while wet, so handle him or her with care. If your baby develops a rash after using certain products, discontinue use, and consult a doctor.
Things You'll Need
- 2 towels
- Cotton balls
- Washcloth or sponge
- Diaper
- Diaper rash cream
- Clothes
- Baby lotion
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Bathing Your Newborn
- "What to Expect the First Year"; Arlene Eisenberg, Heidi Murkoff and Sandee Hathaway; 1989
- Cleveland Clinic: Well-Baby Care
- Kids Health: A Guide for First-Time Parents
