Decide where you are most comfortable bathing your baby and gather your supplies ahead of time. You will need towels, washcloths, shampoo/body wash, diapers, and clothes. Use the tips below to help keep your baby safe.
Caution
To prevent scalds, turn your hot water heater down to 120°F (49°C) or lower.
Step 1. Never leave your baby alone in a bath
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Even an inch of water can be deadly for a newborn.
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If you must leave the room, always take the baby with you.
Step 2. Put the water into a small tub
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A small tub lets you control the water temperature for your baby’s bath.
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When adjusting your baby’s bath water, start with cool water and add hot water to it.
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Mix the water until it feels warm but not hot.
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Always test the water temperature with your elbow, or drop water onto the inside part of your arm. You can also buy a thermometer made for testing bath water.
Step 3. Keep your baby warm
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The temperature of the room where you’re bathing your baby should be about 75°F.
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Keep your baby out of drafts, especially when they are wet.
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Pat your baby dry as soon as you’re done with the bath.
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To keep your baby from getting a chill, cover their head with a fresh, dry towel.
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You can wash your baby's body first, and then wrap them in a warm towel while washing the hair last.
Step 4. Handle with care
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Clean only the parts of your baby that you can see.
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Don’t poke cotton swabs into your baby’s ears or nose.
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Wait until the umbilical cord falls off before bathing your baby in a tub. After the bellybutton has healed, you can get your baby’s entire stomach wet. You can sponge bathe your baby while the umbilical cord is still attached.
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