How to Give a Newborn Baby a Sponge Bath

Having a newborn can be an overwhelming experience, and when it comes to bathing the little one, many parents are not sure how to go about it. But there is nothing to be afraid of--bathing a newborn can be very easy and soothing for both of you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Several soft towels
• A baby wash cloth
• Tear-free gentle baby wash
• A small bowl of lukewarm water
• Q-tips
• Rubbing alcohol

1. Find a comfortable and safe place to wash the baby, such as your bed, and lay out 2 to 3 soft towels. Gather the Q-tips, rubbing alcohol and wash cloth, and place them nearby.

2. Fill a small bowl with clean, lukewarm water. Add 1 to 2 drops of tear-free gentle baby wash and mix gently. Then place the bowl beside the bed within easy reach.

3. Undress the baby, leaving the diaper, and wrap him loosely in a towel. Lay him on the towels that you have laid on the bed in Step 1.

4. Dip the wash cloth into the bowl of water, wring free of water and then gently wash her, starting at the head and moving all the way down to the toes, making sure not to get the umbilical cord wet. Once you reach the diaper area, undo the diaper and wash, dry and re-diaper the baby. Rinse and re-wet the wash cloth as needed and try to cover the baby with the dry towel as you move to the next area.

5. After cleaning all areas, including behind and around the ears, between fingers and toes and the genitals, dry the baby with the wrapped towel. To finish the bathing process, you can now massage the baby with a baby-specific lotion.

6. As a final step, clean the umbilical cord using a Q-tip and rubbing alcohol.

Tips & Warnings

• Once the baby’s umbilical cord falls off, you can begin using a baby bath with a towel under the baby’s head.
• Enjoy bath time and try to comfort the baby. Remember, it is a new experience for both of you.
• Waiting until nighttime and using a bedtime formula wash can help the baby fall sleep faster.
• Always check the temperature of the water by using either your elbow or your wrist. The water should not feel cold or hot. A perfect temperature is close to body temperature and so you should not be able to actually feel the water on your wrist or elbow.
• If your doctor has given you specific directions on cleaning the umbilical cord area, please follow the directions of the physician instead.

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