First infant bath is one of those parenting experiences that looks easy in theory but is fraught with uncertainty in practice. These feelings are understandable, as the little one seems so fragile, but it's time to put the fear aside!
We have put together some practical tips and tricks to make your newborn first bath and all baths to come, a pleasure. These tips are adaptable to different baby temperaments, so you can find what works best for your little one.
Contents
When to Give First Bath to a Newborn?
Preparing for a baby involves many steps, and questions arise when a new family member arrives anyway. One common question is when to give the baby their first bath.
This is the first question new parents ask themselves – no wonder, because there are so many myths about it. You might think a quick bath right after birth is best since the baby is covered in „Vernix Caseosa”, but that white substance acts like a natural lotion, protecting the baby’s skin.
So when is it best to bathe a newborn baby? The WHO recommends waiting at least 24 hours, but there’s no harm in delaying it for a few days (3-5).
Choosing the time of day is another matter, as it also makes a difference. The best time to bathe your newborn is when they feel nice and relaxed. As you get to know your little one better, you’ll figure out the perfect time for their bath.
So, instead of sticking to a strict schedule, it’s better to be flexible, but many parents give their baby an evening bath as part of their bedtime routine. But remember to avoid bathing your baby right after feeding! A full tummy can make the baby uncomfortable in the water, so it’s best to wait a bit after a meal.
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How to Give a Newborn First Bath?
Question number two is all about finding the best place to bathe a newborn. And the answer depends on what you prefer, but many parents find baby baths super useful. They let you wash your baby in different rooms, so you can create a cosy environment that works best for both of you.
The bath should not take too long – just a few minutes is enough. However, make sure all necessary accessories are ready.
First newborn bath at home – what you need:
- Baby bath.
- Towel.
- Cotton washcloth.
- A fresh nappy.
- Changing clothes.
We wrote more about what you will still need in the first few weeks with your baby in the article „Baby essentials for the first 3 months”. With all this at hand, you don’t have to worry about anything, and you can relax and enjoy carrying your baby.
Newborn First Bath Step by Step
The key is the water’s temperature for the newborn’s first bath. It should be around 37 degrees Celsius – warm but not hot. If you don’t have a thermometer, use your elbow. Why? Your elbow’s one of the most sensitive parts of your body to heat. Simply dip it in the water, and if it feels comfortable, then it’s just right for your little one.
You might wonder what to use when washing your little one after they’ve been in the water. There are many products to choose from, but for the first few weeks, plain water is all your newborn needs. You can always start using baby products in the bath later on.
Plus, since your baby might not enjoy baths at first, using fewer extra products can make bath time easier for both of you.
And how do you wash your baby? Here are some key steps to help you through the whole process:
- Always keep your baby’s head above water. Use one hand to support the baby’s head and neck, and use the other hand to pour water over the body gently.
- Start by washing your baby’s face with water and a clean cloth. Gently wipe around the nose and ears. Use the palm of your hand to dab water on the head and hair.
- Then, wash the rest of the body, including the arms, legs, and abdomen. Be careful to avoid sensitive areas like the umbilical cord stump.
After bathing, it’s time for the finale – drying. Again, the key principle is gentleness. Don’t rub your little one’s skin with a towel, just pat it gently dry.
What Instead of a Bath? Topping and Tailing!
It was once believed that a daily bath was necessary, but nowadays, we’re thinking differently about it. Instead of a full bath, simply washing your baby’s face, neck, hands, and diaper area is enough. A baby’s skin is sensitive, so daily washing is not necessary. This quick cleaning routine is completely adequate to keep your little one refreshed.
How can you do it?
Gently wipe your baby with a soft sponge or wet cloth. The best part is that you can do this anywhere – whether on the changing table, sofa, or bed. This means you can keep your child clean even when you’re not at home.
We hope that this brief guide will help make your baby’s baths even more enjoyable. And if you’re still eager to learn more, we’ve also compiled some other valuable articles on preparing for parenthood, with plenty of advice for new parents.
