Bath time is an integral part of your baby’s routine. It is something that begins shortly after your little one is born. Some women delay their baby’s first bath for a few days to protect him or her from environmental pollutants. A newly born baby is covered with vernix, a waxy substance that protects him from germs and other allergens.
However, when you come home from the hospital, it is crucial to give your baby a sponge bath. It involves cleaning your infant’s head, body, and diaper area. The easy and safe way to bathe your young one is when his umbilical cord falls off. In today’s article, we will guide you on how to bathe a newborn safely and easily. Read on!
A Sponge Bath – Step-by-Step
Before you give your infant a sponge bath, you must have some bathing products or items, including padding, blanket, towel, a bowl of warm water, washcloth, baby soap, and baby towel. Here are the steps to give your baby a sponge bath.
Step 1: Choose a warm room or area in your home with a temperature of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Wrap your baby in a soft towel immediately after removing his clothes and diaper.
Step 2: Lay your newborn on a flat surface, such as the sink counter, changing table, or the floor. Use a safety strap if your infant is off the ground. The strap will prevent him from falling on the ground.
Step 3: Do not unwrap the towel all at once. Expose the body area that you wish to bathe. Start at the top of the head and face. Dip a clean cloth in the bowl that contains warm water. Make sure you avoid using soap for the first time to prevent it get into his eyes.
Step 4: Wipe the head, outer ears, neck folds, eyes, and chin. Now, add a few drops of soap into the bowl and dip the sponge in it. Use the soapy sponge to clean the entire body except for the head, neck, chin, eyes, and ears.
Step 5: Use a soft towel to dry your infant off and then put on a clean diaper. It is recommended to use a built-in hood towel to keep your baby’s head warm.
Bathing your baby in Bathtub – Step-by-Step
As mentioned earlier, you will give your baby a sponge bath until his or her umbilical cord falls off. When the cord detaches, you can bathe him in a bathtub. Here are the steps you need to follow to bathe your baby safely and easily. Continue reading!
Step 1: Put some water in the bathtub – i.e., 2-3 inches of water is enough. Depending on the product you have purchased, see if you can place the bathtub in your regular tub or sink. It does not matter if the bathtub does not fit into the sink.
Step 2: Undress your baby and place him in the tub. That way, your baby won’t feel cold. Support your baby’s head using one of your hands. Remember, your baby’s feet will go first into the bathtub. Make him or her feel comfortable by using your other hand to place him in the tub. Make sure his head and neck are above the water. Keep your eyes on the baby for his safety.
Step 3: Pour or splash some warm water over your little one to make him feel comfortable. Tip: The temperature of the room is very important. It must not be too cold or too hot. Maintain a warm temperature. Remember, warm is different from hot.
Step 4: Use a washcloth to clean your baby’s hair, face. You can use a mild shampoo to clean and wash his hair. Tip: Use the shampoo at least one or two times a week.
Step 5: Use soapy water to wash your baby’s entire body. Make sure the water does not enter his or her eyes. Don’t leave your baby in the bathtub to avoid the risk of drowning. Lift your little one out and use a towel to pat him dry.
Final Words
Bathing a baby is both an exciting and dreadful experience for new mothers. It is because the mother wants to maintain her baby’s safety. At the same time, bathing is necessary to keep your baby clean and maintain his hygiene. Follow the above step-by-step guide to make things easier and safer. Good Luck!
