Bathing a Newborn Baby

🛁 When Can You Bathe a Newborn?

• Wait until the umbilical cord stump falls off (usually around 1–2 weeks) before giving a full tub bath.

• Until then, stick to sponge baths.

🧼 How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn?

• 2 to 3 times a week is plenty.

• Daily bathing can dry out a newborn’s sensitive skin.

🧺 What You’ll Need:

• Soft washcloth or sponge

• Mild, fragrance-free baby soap (optional)

• Cup for rinsing

• Baby towel (with a hood if possible)

• Clean diaper and clothes

• Small baby bathtub or basin (once ready for tub baths)

• Warm water (about 98–100°F or 37°C)

👶 How to Give a Sponge Bath (Before Umbilical Cord Falls Off):

1. Set up a warm, draft-free area.

2. Lay your baby on a flat surface (e.g., towel or changing pad).

3. Keep baby wrapped in a towel, exposing only the area you’re washing.

4. Dip the cloth in warm water, wring it out, and gently wash:

   • Face (no soap)

   • Neck folds

   • Arms, hands, legs, feet

   • Diaper area last (front to back for girls)

5. Pat dry and diaper/dress baby immediately.

🛁 How to Give a Tub Bath (After Umbilical Cord Falls Off):

1. Fill a baby tub with just 2–3 inches of warm water.

2. Undress baby and gently place them in the water, supporting their head and neck.

3. Use a soft washcloth to clean:

   • Face and scalp (including behind ears)

   • Body folds

   • Genital area (last)

4. Rinse gently with a cup of clean warm water.

5. Lift baby out, wrap in a towel immediately, and pat dry.

🚫 Safety Tips:

• Never leave your baby unattended in or near water — not even for a second.

• Test the water temperature with your wrist or elbow.

• Avoid direct water on the face or over the umbilical stump (until healed).

• Use mild products only, or just water for very young babies.