How to Bathe a Newborn or Older Baby: Step-by-Step Guide

Bathing your baby for the first time is an exciting milestone, but it can also be nerve-wracking. While newborns may not immediately enjoy bath time, they usually grow to love splashing in the water. As your baby gets older, baths can become a fun and relaxing part of their bedtime routine.

Although bathing a baby is simple once you get used to it, there are important safety and hygiene considerations, especially in the early weeks after birth and when transitioning from a baby tub to a regular bathtub.

This step-by-step guide will help you understand when and how to bathe your newborn and older baby safely.

When Can You Give Your Newborn a Bath?

Experts recommend waiting at least 24 hours after birth to give your newborn their first bath (or at least 6 hours for cultural reasons). This delay helps maintain their body temperature and blood sugar levels, prevents skin dryness, and encourages bonding and breastfeeding.

Until the umbilical cord stump naturally falls off (usually within three weeks), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises giving your newborn sponge baths. Keeping the stump clean and dry reduces the risk of infection.

Similarly, if your baby boy is circumcised, avoid full immersion baths for the first two days after the procedure.

You can bathe your baby at any time of day, depending on your schedule. Some parents include it in their morning routine, while others find it a soothing way to wind down at night. Choose a time when your baby is calm and avoid bath time right after feeding.

How to Give a Newborn a Sponge Bath

Before your newborn is ready for full baths, sponge baths are the safest option:

1. Fill a small basin with warm water.
2. Wrap your baby in a towel and place them on a comfortable surface, keeping one hand on them at all times.
3. Use a clean, damp washcloth to gently clean your baby’s face, starting from the bridge of the nose outward. Avoid using cotton swabs inside the ears.
4. Wipe the rest of the body, uncovering only the parts you are cleaning. Soap isn’t necessary, but if you use it, choose a mild, moisturizing baby soap.
5. Clean milk dribbles, skin folds (neck, armpits, thighs), and genital areas daily with a damp washcloth or wipes.
6. If your baby has cradle cap (scaly skin on the scalp), wash their hair with baby shampoo and gently brush their scalp with a soft-bristled brush.

How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn?

Newborns only need a bath two to three times a week. Unlike adults, they don’t sweat as much or get dirty quickly, and frequent baths can dry out their sensitive skin. However, as your baby starts eating solids and crawling, more frequent baths may be necessary.

If your baby enjoys warm water, you can incorporate baths into their daily routine. If they cry during baths, switch back to sponge baths for a while and try again later. Bath time doesn’t have to be long—just a few minutes is enough to keep your newborn clean.

How to Bathe a Newborn in a Tub

Bathing your newborn in a baby tub for the first time can feel overwhelming. Wet, wiggly babies can be tricky to handle, but following these steps will make the process easier:

1. Gather all bath essentials (mild soap, washcloths, cup for rinsing, towel, diaper, and a fresh outfit) before starting.
2. Fill the baby bathtub with about 2 inches of warm water (aim for around 100°F).
3. Undress your baby completely and place them in the tub immediately to prevent them from getting cold. Use one hand to support their head and guide their feet in first.
4. Keep pouring warm water over your baby’s body during the bath to keep them warm.
5. Wash your baby’s eyes, face, and ears with a damp washcloth. Avoid using cotton swabs inside the ears.
6. Gently wet their scalp and massage a small amount of baby shampoo into their hair before rinsing.
7. Clean the rest of the body, paying attention to skin folds, fingers, toes, and the diaper area. Use soap sparingly.
8. Rinse your baby thoroughly with cupfuls of water.
9. Carefully lift your baby out of the tub, supporting their neck and bottom.
10. Wrap your baby in a towel, pat them dry, and apply unscented baby lotion to prevent dry skin.
11. Put on a diaper and fresh clothes, and enjoy some snuggles!

Best Bath Water Temperature for Babies

The ideal baby bath water temperature should feel warm, not hot, when tested on the back of your wrist. A bath thermometer should read around 100°F.

Tips for Bathing an Older Baby

Once your baby can sit unassisted (around 6 to 8 months old), they can transition to a regular bathtub. However, bath safety remains a priority.

• Never leave your baby unattended. Drowning can happen quickly, even in just an inch or two of water.
• Keep bath supplies within reach. This ensures you don’t have to step away while bathing your baby.
• Use bath toys. Toys like cups, foam letters, and floating blocks can make bath time fun and engaging.
• Minimize soap and shampoo use. Overuse can dry out your baby’s skin. Avoid bath oils and bubble baths, which may cause irritation, especially for baby girls.

A good tip is to let your child play first and wash them at the end of the bath. This prevents prolonged exposure to soapy water, which can cause skin irritation.

How to Keep Your Baby Safe During Baths

Two-thirds of infant drownings under 1 year old occur in bathtubs. Follow these essential safety precautions:

• Stay within arm’s reach of your baby at all times when they are near water.
• Never leave your baby unsupervised, even for a second. If you need to step away, wrap them in a towel and take them with you.
• Avoid distractions. Don’t use your phone or get distracted while your baby is in the bath.
• Don’t use infant bath seats. These can tip over or allow your baby to slip out.
• Use a baby bathtub that provides support and meets current safety standards.
• Never put your baby in the tub while water is running. The water level or temperature can change quickly.
• Set your water heater to 120°F. Higher temperatures can cause third-degree burns in seconds.
• For older babies, childproof the tub. Use a rubber mat to prevent slipping and a cushioned spout cover to protect against bumps.
• Keep electrical appliances and sharp objects away from the bathtub.
• Teach older babies and toddlers to sit in the tub and only get out with adult assistance.
• Drain the tub immediately after the bath to eliminate drowning risks. Store the drain plug out of reach when the tub is not in use.

Conclusion

Bathing a newborn or older baby is a special bonding experience, but safety should always come first. Start with sponge baths until the umbilical cord falls off, then transition to baby tub baths. As your baby grows, make bath time fun while maintaining proper hygiene and safety.

By following these step-by-step guidelines, you can confidently give your baby a safe and enjoyable bath!