Get ready for your baby's first bath🛀 – an exciting milestone that blends joy and a hint of nervousness. While baths might not initially be every newborn's favorite, they'll likely turn into a delightful part of bedtime as your baby grows💕.
When can I give my newborn a bath?
When it comes to your newborn's baths, there's a sweet balance to strike: waiting around 24 hours after birth (or 6 hours if cultural reasons prompt an earlier dip) is recommended. This delay helps regulate their temperature🌡️, sugars, and skin hydration, all while nurturing that special bond with you. Until their umbilical cord stump takes its leave (usually within three weeks), gentle sponge baths are the way to go, guarding against any unwanted visitors while it heals.
For those adorable newborn boys with a circumcision, extra care is advised – no full-body baths until a little time has passed post-procedure. As for timing, the bathing our is yours to choose: mornings might set the stage for a lively day, while evenings offer a serene wind-down. Just ensure a happy baby and a relaxed you😺, avoiding baths right after feeding for contented digestion.
How to give your newborn a sponge bath
As your newborn eases into the world of baths, sponge baths take the stage:
🧽Prep and Comfort
To give your newborn a gentle sponge bath, start by filling a basin with warm water. Next, wrap your baby snugly in a soft towel and place them on a comfortable surface. Always keep one hand on your baby for added security and to ensure they feel safe throughout the process.
🧽Gentle Cleaning
Using a clean washcloth dipped in the warm water, begin by delicately cleaning your baby's face. Start at the bridge of their nose and gently wipe over their eyes. For their ears, use a corner of the washcloth, avoiding cotton swabs. As you proceed, use the washcloth to wipe down their body from the neck downward. Remember to uncover only the areas you're actively cleaning. It's best to skip soap during this stage, as it can be drying for your newborn's sensitive skin. If you choose to use soap, opt for a mild, moisturizing baby soap to keep their skin comfortable.
🧽Quick Touch-Ups and Scalp Care
For those minor mishaps like milk dribbles, a damp washcloth works wonders. Simply spot-clean their face, neck, and hands throughout the day as needed. Additionally, make sure to thoroughly clean the folds of their skin, such as their thighs and armpits, after diaper changes. If your newborn has a cradle cap, you can address it with gentle care. While the cradle cap generally resolves on its own, you can try washing your baby's hair with baby shampoo and lightly brushing their scalp with a soft-bristled brush to help alleviate any bothersome scales.
🧽How often to bathe a newborn
Bathing your newborn two or three times a week is just right, as they don't need frequent baths. Warm water can be soothing, but if your baby doesn't enjoy it, you can stick to sponge baths. Remember, baths don't have to be long – a few minutes is enough to keep your baby clean and cozy.