New parents often have a lot of questions about how to care for their new baby, and one of the most important things to understand is the proper way to bathe a newborn. While it may seem like a simple thing, there are actually a few things to keep in mind that ensures your baby has a safe and enjoyable experience.
First, always use lukewarm water when bathing your baby. Newborns have very sensitive skin, so using water that is too hot or too cold can cause discomfort or even burns.
Second, it’s important to be gentle when washing your baby’s hair and body. Use slow, circular motions with your hands or a soft washcloth to avoid irritating their skin. Also, when choosing a soap for newborns, why not consider using an herbal-formulated one to avoid irritation due to harsh chemicals?
And finally, always keep a close eye on your baby while they are in the bathtub – never leave them unattended!
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your newborn’s bath time is both pleasant and safe.
What are the Items that You Need to Properly Bathe Your Newborn Baby?
Listed below are the essential items that your baby needs so you can give them a bath:
- A place to bathe your baby – You can use a sink, a bathtub, or even a plastic tub designed for newborns.
- A soft towel – Look for a towel that is specifically made for babies, as they are typically softer and gentler on delicate skin.
- Soft washcloths – Again, these should be specifically made for babies and their sensitive skin.
- A mild baby soap – You don’t need to use a lot of soap, and in fact, it’s better to use less rather than more.
- A cup – This can be used to pour water over your baby’s head during the shampooing process.
- A gentle, tear-free baby shampoo – Choose a shampoo that is designed for newborns and babies, as it will be more gentle and less likely to cause irritation.
And don’t forget, when shopping for your baby’s hair, skincare, and bathing products, be sure to check the label. As parents, you must know what are the ingredients to avoid in baby products.
Now that you have all of the necessary items, you’re ready to start bathing your special one!
How to Sponge Bath Your Newborn Baby
That being said, before giving your sweet infant baby a full bath, you might want to try giving your little one a sponge bath first as a way to introduce the baby bath procedure.
Here are six easy steps:
- Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water, and remember, not too hot and not too cold!
- Wet a washcloth in the water and gently wipe your baby’s face, being careful not to get water in their eyes.
- Using the same wet washcloth, clean your baby’s neck and behind their ears.
- Take a new, clean washcloth and wet it in the water. Gently wipe down your baby’s chest and back.
- Finally, wet the washcloth one last time and use it to clean your baby’s bottom – front and back!
- Once you’re finished, wrap your baby in a soft towel and snuggle them close.
How to Bathe Your Newborn Baby
After having given your baby a sponge bath, he or she might be ready for the real thing. And if your baby’s pediatrician has given you the go-ahead, then it’s recommended that you follow the proper bathing for newborns.
In less than ten steps, you can do it with confidence, too! Here’s how:
- Fill the tub with lukewarm water, and again, not too hot and not too cold. You can also use a sink, or a plastic tub designed specifically for newborns.
- Gently lower your baby into the water and let them splash around for a few minutes to get used to the feeling.
- Using a cup or a small pitcher, pour lukewarm water over your baby’s head to wet their hair.
- Apply a small amount of baby shampoo to your hands and gently massage it into your baby’s scalp. Rinse the shampoo out with more lukewarm water.
- To wash your baby’s body, start with their face, and use a soft washcloth to gently clean around their eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Next, move on to their neck and behind their ears. Use a new, clean washcloth for each area.
- Finally, wash your baby’s chest and back, using slow, circular motions with your hands or a washcloth.
- To clean your baby’s bottom, use a soft washcloth and warm water. Wipe front to back to avoid spreading bacteria.
- Once you’re finished, gently lift your baby out of the tub and wrap them in a soft towel. Snuggle them close and enjoy some quality cuddle time!
Easy as 1-2-3, right? So, you must also be wondering, how often should a newborn baby be washed and given a bath?
Newborns don’t need to be bathed every day. In fact, bathing them too often can actually dry out their skin. A good rule of thumb is to bathe them three times a week, or whenever they seem dirty or have gotten into something like milk or formula, just so they’re always clean and fresh.
What about a sponge bath? When do you know if it’s ok for your newborn to get a sponge bath?
Sponge baths are a great option for newborns who are too young or small to safely sit in a tub. They can also be used if your baby has eczema or another skin condition that makes bathing more difficult.
Bathing and skincare for the newborn truly can be a challenge, especially if it’s your first time as parents, but know that it is doable.
The Gentle and Safe Approach to Newborn Baby Skincare
When it comes to newborn baby skincare, it’s important to choose products that are gentle and safe for their delicate skin. Look for products that are specifically designed for babies and avoid anything with harsh chemicals or fragrances.
Moringa-O2’s herbal hair and skincare line is the perfect choice for gentle, safe, and effective newborn baby skincare. If you’re looking for a lotion for newborns to add to your baby’s skincare routine, then our moringa lotion is for your tiny one!
Our products are made with natural ingredients like moringa oil and aloe vera, and they’re free of harsh chemicals, sulfates, and parabens. Plus, they’re safe for even the most sensitive skin!
So, if you’re looking for the best way to care for your newborn’s skin, you know where to find us.
Check out our Hair & Skin Care Tips for more!