While most parents look forward to giving their infant his first bath, the process can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. Fortunately, bathing an infant is not complicated, as long as he is kept warm and his head and neck are properly supported throughout the process. Use a small tub designed for infants, or use your kitchen sink, if no tub is available.
Step 1
Wait until your infant's umbilical cord has fallen off before giving him a tub bath. If his cord has not yet detached, sponge bathe your infant using a damp washcloth.
Step 2
Gather your supplies before you place your infant in the tub. This is extremely important, as you will not be able to leave your infant to collect soap or washcloths once the bath begins.
Step 3
Fill an infant tub or clean kitchen sink with 2 inches of lukewarm water. If you are using a sink, place a towel in the bottom for your infant's comfort. Use a bath thermometer to ensure the water is between 92 and 100 degrees F. Eliminate hot spots by swirling the water with your hand before placing your infant into the tub or sink.
Step 4
Place your infant into the water while supporting his head and neck with one hand. Keep one hand on your infant at all times, and use your free hand to clean his eyes using a wet, warm washcloth. Start at the inside corner of his eyes and work your way to the outside corner. Wipe your infant's face using the wet washcloth.
Step 5
Apply a pea-sized amount of baby wash to the washcloth and clean your infant's neck. Work your way down his body, leaving the diaper area for last. It is important to wash down, from head to feet, to prevent spreading bacteria from more soiled areas to more sensitive areas, such as the face and eyes. Wash the diaper area from front to back.
Step 6
Wash your infant's scalp with baby wash or baby shampoo, being careful not to let soap and water run into your infant's eyes, nose or mouth. Use a clean, wet washcloth to wipe the soap from your infant's hair. Avoid pouring a cup of water over a young infant's head. If your infant suffers from cradle cap, follow your doctor's instructions as to how to remove scales.
Step 7
Use the water in the tub or sink to rinse your infant's body before removing him from the tub. Avoiding using water directly out of the tap, as the temperature of tap water can vary significantly from one minute to the next.
Step 8
Lift your infant from the tub or sink, place him on a towel, and gently pat him until dry. Do not rub your infant's skin with the towel, as this may cause irritation. When he is fully dry, apply lotion, if desired, and diaper and dress him.
Things You'll Need
- Infant tub or clean kitchen sink
- Bath thermometer
- Two or more washcloths
- Baby bath soap
- Plastic cup
- Towel
