Bathing Your Baby: A Gentle and Caring Guide to Keeping Your Little One Clean and Cozy

Welcoming a new baby into your life is an exciting journey, and one of the many new things you’ll be learning is how to care for your little one’s delicate body. Bathing your baby can be such a sweet, bonding experience, but it’s also important to make sure you’re doing it in a safe and gentle way. Whether you’re a first-time parent or this is your second or third go-around, we want to help you feel confident and comfortable with the process.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the basics of bathing your baby—whether you choose sponge bathing or submersion bathing—and give you some helpful tips to ensure your baby stays safe and happy during bath time.

What Methods Can Be Used?

There are two main methods for bathing your newborn:

1. Sponge Bathing Sponge bathing is the recommended method for newborns until the umbilical cord stump falls off, which usually happens within the first few weeks of life. This method allows you to keep your baby clean without immersing them in water. It’s a gentle and safe way to start your little one’s bath-time routine.

2. Submersion Bathing Submersion bathing, or traditional bathing, is when your baby is fully immersed in a tub of warm water. This method is usually safe to start once your baby’s umbilical cord stump has fallen off, and their navel is fully healed. This can be a relaxing way for your baby to enjoy bath time and is often a favorite for many parents and babies alike.

How to Sponge Bath Your Baby

1. Gather Your Supplies
   Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need within arm’s reach. You'll want to keep your baby safe, warm, and calm throughout the bath.

   • A soft washcloth

   • A gentle baby soap or cleanser

   • A towel or soft blanket for drying

   • A clean diaper and fresh baby clothes

2. Prepare the Area
   Choose a warm, quiet spot to bathe your baby. Lay down a soft towel or blanket to keep them comfortable and avoid chilling. Ensure the room is warm, and the water temperature is comfortable—about 100°F is ideal.

3. Gently Clean Your Baby
   Wet the washcloth with warm water, and apply a small amount of baby soap or cleanser. Gently wipe your baby’s face and neck, being careful not to get any soap in their eyes. Then, move down their body, cleaning their arms, chest, and legs. For your baby’s diaper area, use a fresh section of the washcloth and be gentle but thorough. Take your time, as bath time is a great opportunity for bonding.

4. Dry and Dress
   Once your baby is clean, carefully wrap them in a towel to keep them warm. Pat them dry gently and get them into a fresh diaper and comfortable clothes.

How to Submersion Bathe Your Baby

1. Gather Your Supplies
   If you’re planning to give your baby a full bath in the tub, you’ll need:

   • A baby bathtub or a clean, shallow tub

   • Soft baby washcloths

   • Gentle baby soap

   • A towel or washcloth for support and drying

   • Clean diaper and clothes

2. Set Up the Bath
   Fill the baby tub with about 2 to 3 inches of warm water (around 100°F). Test the temperature with your elbow or wrist to ensure it’s just right—not too hot, not too cold. Keep the room warm and make sure you have everything you need close by so you never have to leave your baby unattended. If you find that your little one is not having a good time try keeping a small stream of water going and covering them with a warm wash cloth.

3. Submerge Baby Slowly
   Gently hold your baby and slowly lower them into the water, making sure their head and neck are well-supported at all times. Use one hand to support their head, neck, and back while the other hand is used to bathe them.

4. Clean Your Baby
   Use a soft washcloth to gently wash your baby’s face and body. Focus on one area at a time, making sure to clean all the little folds and creases in their skin, like behind their ears and around the neck. Be extra gentle and avoid getting soap in their eyes. Wash their diaper area carefully as well, using a clean part of the washcloth.

5. Dry and Dress
   Once your baby’s bath is finished, lift them out of the water gently and wrap them in a soft towel. Dry them off thoroughly, especially in the folds of their skin, and get them into a fresh diaper and clothes. Now, you have a nice, clean and cozy little one!

Precautions to Take Before Starting

1. Check the Water Temperature
   It’s essential to always double-check the water temperature to ensure it’s comfortable for your baby. Hot water can burn your baby’s delicate skin, so always test it with your wrist or elbow before you start. The water should be warm but not too hot, around 100°F.

2. Never Leave Your Baby Alone
   Bath time should be a time of connection and bonding, so never leave your baby unattended in or near water—even for a moment. Always keep one hand on your baby for safety, especially during submersion bathing.

3. Gentle Products
   Be sure to use gentle, baby-safe products like mild soaps and lotions to protect your little one’s sensitive skin. Avoid any harsh chemicals or fragrances that might irritate their skin.

4. Umbilical Cord Care
   Until your baby’s umbilical cord stump falls off (usually by 2 weeks), it’s best to stick to sponge bathing. If your baby’s stump gets wet during the bath, be sure to gently pat it dry with a soft cloth afterward.

Items to Gather for Bathing

Before you start bath time, gather the following essentials to make the process smoother:

1. Baby Tub or Basin (for submersion bathing)

2. Soft Washcloths

3. Gentle Baby Soap

4. Towel or Blanket (for drying and warmth)

5. Clean Diaper and Clothes

6. A Bath Toy (optional, but a gentle toy can make bath time more fun)

Bathing your baby is a beautiful experience that not only helps keep your little one clean but also provides a perfect opportunity to bond with them in a soothing, gentle way. Whether you choose sponge bathing or submersion bathing, always remember to be patient, gentle, and present. This special time can become a calming routine for both you and your baby, filled with love and warmth.

We’re here to support you every step of the way as you navigate these early days with your new baby. With a little preparation and care, you’ll be making precious memories during bath time in no time.