Bathing a baby is a very delicate job and requires a lot of attention as well as caution. If you are a new mommy, your baby will be the most precious being for you and you will want to provide your baby with all of the bests in life. You surely wouldn’t want to treat your baby wrong even slightly. After all, this is what Motherhood is, the most special yet dicey feeling!
So, mommies, we know you are having the most confusing time ever and we feel you! Do not worry, this happens as bathing your newborn can indeed be tricky. We have your back here! Here is the detailed procedure on your to give your baby its bath properly!
Cautions
- Use a small tub for your baby and fill only a part of it, according to your baby size. Do not let the water level be above your baby’s abdomen.
- Never place your baby in the tub when the water is still pouring. After the tub is filled, carefully check the temperature(the water should be warm but not at all hot), the water level, and then place her in it. The water temperature should be checked carefully using sensitive areas like the inside of your wrist.
- Bath your baby only externally. New-borns do not need to have their inside ears cleaned up so soon. If the physician suggests the cleaning, take the help of a certified baby nurse for the task.
- Daily baths are not needed for newborns. Bathing them 2-3 times weekly shall be the most convenient unless otherwise prescribed by the doctor.
- Last but not the least, NEVER leave your baby alone during bath time even if it’s for the smallest time.
Pro Tips For Bathing Your Baby
Here are some amazing tips that can help you bathe your baby easily and like a pro.
1. Select the Proper Timings
Your baby may not be able to express themself well but you need to understand her. Baths should always be routined but if you’re bathing your baby and she seems upset at that specific time or shortly afterward, changing the time could do the trick. Bathing your baby before bedtime is a good option and if preferred by many mommies ( and babies too!)
2. Be Prepared
Bathing your newborn is very confusing already and you wouldn’t want to add more to it. Be prepared with all the products beforehand so that you can bathe her without any interference!
3. Proper Temperature
Make sure you have the room temperature comfortable enough ( about 76°F- 80°F) for your baby. Babies tend to lose body heat pretty quickly and need warmth to feel comfortable and be safe at bath time.
4. The Sponge Bath
Babies should be given only sponge baths until their umbilical cord and circumcision, heals completely. If your baby is less than a month old, this should be the preferable bath type for him/her.
Procedure
- Undress your baby and wrap her in a towel.
- Expose only the areas you want to wash one by one and wash them carefully.
- Wash the private parts at last and handle them very tenderly.
- Gently pat her dry.
5. Tub Bath
Babies above a month old can be bathed in a tub.
Tub BathTips
- Keep the baby’s head out and away from the water.
- Keep the baths short.
- Do not use powders on babies who are less than two months old, unless necessary.
- Before using any product for your baby, sterilize them properly to avoid any contact with germs.
- For choosing the correct bathtub:
- Choose a tub of the correct size
- Make sure the material is thick enough
- Find a tub with a rough bottom( to avoid slipping)
Procedure
- Support the head of your baby with one of your hands.
- Gently lower the body into the water.
- For the face, use a baby sponge or clean washcloth and wash it like in the sponge bath.
- Use proper baby shampoo and body cleanser. Do not use shampoos and cleansers every day in the beginning, thrice a week will be good enough. As the baby grows, the frequency may increase accordingly.
- Gently pat her dry and wrap her in a towel immediately, covering the head first.
- Apply baby lotion first and the diapers and dresses.
So mommies, now you’re completely prepared to wash your newborn safely. Be patient and careful. Good luck ladies!
Also Read: How To 'Potty Train' Your Child?
