How to bathe a newborn baby?
For many parents, bringing a baby home is one of the happiest and most exciting times of their lives. However, these moments can also bring with them some minor anxieties and worries. In particular, the thought of bathing this small, delicate, fragile human being can be a big worry, especially for those who are experiencing their first baby.
Fortunately, with a little practice, bathing your baby is actually simple.
How often should a newborn baby be bathed?
Two to three times a week is sufficient as long as the diaper area is thoroughly cleaned at each diaper change.
Can you take a bath before the umbilical cord falls off?
How to bathe a baby before the umbilical cord falls off?
The first thing to keep in mind is to start with sponge baths until your baby’s umbilical cord falls off and heals.
You can follow these tips to give your newborn baby a sponge bath:
1- Gather the ingredients. You will need a bowl of warm water, a washcloth and a mild, unscented baby soap.
2- Lay your baby on a comfortable, flat surface. Keep your baby warm by wrapping them in a towel and exposing only the part of their body that you are actively bathing. Keep one hand on your baby at all times for safety.
3-Start with your baby’s head. Dip the washcloth in a basin of warm water and gently wipe your baby’s face and scalp. It is safe to gently clean baby’s soft spots. Remember to clean the folds and grooves on the neck and behind the ears.
4- Clean the rest of the body. Add the baby soap to the bowl of water and use the diaper to gently wash the rest of your baby’s body. Make sure to rinse off all of the soap after cleaning each area.
How to bathe after the umbilical cord falls off?
After your baby’s umbilical cord has fallen off, you can switch to the traditional bath. But start slowly; if your baby doesn’t like the traditional bath, go back to the sponge bath method for a week or more.
When bathing your baby in the traditional way, you can pay attention to the following:
1-Prepare in advance. Decide where you will bathe your baby, you can arrange for a washing tub which can make the job easier. Take a wash cloth, a mild, unscented baby soap and a baby shampoo if your baby has hair.
2-Put your baby in the water. First fill your baby’s bath with warm water. Test the temperature of the water on the inside of your wrist to make sure it is not too hot. Then, slowly guide your baby into the water, feet first. Most of your baby’s body should be above the water, so occasionally pour warm water over your baby’s body to warm up.
3-Start with your baby’s head. Use the diaper to gently wash your baby’s face and scalp. Use baby shampoo once or twice a week to clean your baby’s hair.
4-Clean the rest of the body. Use a washcloth and baby soap to gently clean the rest of your baby’s body. Remember to clean between your baby’s fingers and toes. Make sure to rinse off all the soap after cleaning each area.
5 – After bathing, wrap your baby in a towel to warm them up immediately. If you notice that your baby’s skin is dry after bathing, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or consider giving your baby fewer baths.
Consult your dermatologist for your concerns and questions about your baby’s skin. You can contact us to schedule an examination appointment and ask any questions you may have.
