During the first year of life, it is fairly easy to keep your baby clean without giving him daily baths. If your baby enjoys bath time, there is no harm in frequent bathing as long as it does not irritate his skin. However, if bath time is a struggle or your baby has sensitive skin, you may prefer to give him fewer baths.
Frequency
Your baby should only have sponge baths until the umbilical stump falls off, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. When you do start bathing your baby in a tub, it is not necessary to give him a bath every day. Three tub baths per week may be enough for a baby under 1 year of age, according to the AAP. As your baby gets older and more adventurous, especially when he begins experimenting with solid foods, you may find that he needs more frequent baths.
Special Conditions
If your baby has a skin condition like eczema, her doctor may give you specific instructions about how often to bathe her to protect her sensitive skin. In the past, parents were often instructed to give babies with eczema fewer baths to protect the skin, but it may be helpful to give them frequent baths in lukewarm water to hydrate the skin, according to the AAP. Ask your baby's doctor how often you should bathe her if she has a skin condition.
Considerations
To protect your baby's delicate skin, bathe her with a mild soap and pat her skin dry with a towel afterward. If baths cause your baby to have dry skin, apply a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free lotion to her skin right after the bath to lock in moisture, recommends the AAP.
Daily Hygiene
In between baths, simple measures can help keep your baby clean. Wash his face and neck daily, and pay special attention to the neck folds where saliva and milk may pool and irritate skin. Clean your baby's diaper area daily and be sure to clean him well after bowel movements.
Warning
To prevent drowning, never leave a baby alone in a tub of water for any amount of time, even if there is only a small amount of water in the tub. If you have to leave the room for any reason, wrap your baby up and take her with you.
