Bathing your newborn can be a frightening experience!  Their tiny, wiggling bodies can be hard to manage once covered in slippery soap and water.  Taking a few precautions can make this time safer and more enjoyable for both parent and baby.

Baby bathtubs are great once your child has some neck control, but for the first few weeks many parents find it easier to bathe their newborn in the kitchen or bathroom sink.   Using the ‘football hold’, you can wash baby’s hair with a washcloth and mild baby shampoo.  To use the football hold, cradle baby’s head in your right hand, with their body laying on your forearm.  Tuck their legs and feet into the side of your body.  This hold keeps water and soap out of baby’s eyes and allows you to keep a firm grip, while freeing up your other hand for washing and rinsing.

Baby should be bathed in a warm room with no breeze.  Whether you use a baby tub or the sink, fill with only a few inches of lukewarm water.  It is not necessary to immerse the baby in deep water (and can be dangerous to do so!).  Always test the water first with your hand.

Using a clean, damp washcloth, gently wipe baby’s eyes from the inside outward.  Wipe the rest of the face, then the outer ears.  It is not necessary to use soap on baby’s face. 

Keeping one hand on your child, lather a small amount of baby soap in your other hand and gently wash baby’s body.  Use the washcloth to rinse away soap.  Pay special attention to the diaper area, neck, hands and feet.

Remove baby from the water and wrap in a hooded towel.  Gently towel baby off and dress in warm clothing after bathing.  Gently but thoroughly pat the umbilical cord area dry.

It is important to be free of distractions during bathtime.  Babies and young children can drown in only a few inches of water, so you can’t take your eyes away for a second.  Some babies love bathtime, while others may be frightened and cry the whole time.  Remember to smile and reassure baby with one hand on them at all times.  Newborns don’t need to be bathed every day; in fact, two to three times per week is sufficient.  However, their face, hands, and diaper area should be washed with a clean cloth daily.