How to Give a Baby a Sponge Bath

Sponge baths are necessary during the first few weeks of life, until the umbilical cord stump falls off; they're also good between tub baths for older babies. When washing, work from the face to the diaper area.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baby Clothes
• Baby Bathtubs
• Baby Blankets
• Baby Hooded Towels
• Baby Robes
• Baby Washcloths
• Changing Pads Or Towel
• Towels
• Towels
• Baby Shampoo
• Diapers
• Mild Soap
• Baby Shampoo
• Mild Soap
• Towels

1. Gather all supplies - a basin of warm water, mild baby soap, shampoo, a washcloth and a baby towel, preferably one with a hood.

2. Prepare an area for baby's bath - the counter next to the sink, the floor or a changing table.

3. Pad hard surfaces with a changing pad, blanket or towel.

4. Keep your baby wrapped in a towel and only expose the parts of the body you are washing.

5. Clean the upper eyelids gently with a washcloth soaked in warm water.

6. Wipe the outer part of the ears.

7. Wash the creases of the neck, arms and legs. Don't forget that a baby's bottom should be washed from front to back.

8. Spread a baby girl's labia apart and gently clean between them with a soft washcloth soaked in warm water. Carefully clean a baby boy's penis and scrotum.

9. Rinse off shampoo by squeezing clean water from a wet washcloth onto baby's hair while holding him/her in the football hold over the sink.

10. Diaper and dress your baby.

Tips & Warnings

• Baby skin is very sensitive and can scratch easily.

on 11/22/2005 Wait until your baby is fully awake before you give him a bath. Your baby will be fussy and uncooperative if you give him a bath when he is sleepy. If you want to give your baby a bath before bedtime, do so at least an hour before putting him down to sleep.