Steps to Bathing a Baby
As intimidating as the notion of a wiggly, wet, slippery baby may seem to new parents, bathing babies can be a bonding time. By learning the steps to bathing babies as well as some planning and preparation, you can make the process safer and more enjoyable for you and your baby.
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Considerations
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Babies don't need to be bathed every day. A sponge or tub bath with warm water and mild soap every two or three days is plenty. the Mayo Clinic says. If you bathe every day, consider only using soap every other day to prevent your baby's skin from drying out. The Mayo Clinic recommends giving babies sponge baths only until the umbilical cord stump has fallen off.
Preparation
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Choose either a hard-sided or inflatable tub made especially for infant baths. You can also bathe your baby in a plastic wash bin or a clean sink. Have all the necessary items, including soap, washcloth and a towel, within arm's reach. Place the tub in a warm area. Fill the tub with only 2 or 3 inches of warm water, enough to clean your baby without him feeling overwhelmed, Women's Healthcare Topics says. Keep the water temperature about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the Mayo Clinic suggests. Buy a thermometer or an indicator that changes color if the water is too hot.
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Getting Started
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Babies respond to their first baths baths differently. Some cry and others love it right away, Women's Healthcare Topics shares. Keep your baby supported when placing her in the water. Keep a hand under her bottom at first. Put her in the shallow water slowly. If she doesn't like the bath at first, get her clean as quickly as possible.
In the Bath
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Never leave a baby unattended in the bath for even a few seconds. Begin with the baby's eyes and face and work your way down, washing the front first and then the back. Wash behind his ears and the folds under his chin where milk tends to drip. Pour warm water over his shoulders to keep him warm. If you wash his hair, use a mild, tear-free shampoo before washing the rest of his body. Rinse his hair with a washcloth or under a faucet. Pay special attention to the folds and creases on his arms and legs. Wash the genital area well.
After the bath
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Have your towel opened up and ready to wrap up your baby after the bath. When you're done with the bath, wrap your baby in the towel right away so she doesn't get chilled. Dry your baby thoroughly before putting a diaper or clothes back on to avoid any rashes. Lotion isn't necessary. It could cause irritation if used too often, the Mayo Clinic says. If you use lotion, use a mild one made for babies. Parents can incorporate infant massage into an after-bath routine.
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- Photo Credit baby in bath image by Pavel Losevsky from Fotolia.com
