HygieneReading time: 5 minutes

Bathing Your Baby: How to Prepare and What to Do

CategoryHygiene
Bathing Your Baby: How to Prepare and What to Do

Medically reviewed by pediatrician and perinatal psychologist Polina Kizino

Bathing is not just hygiene — it’s a way to soothe your baby. You can start from day one if the umbilical area has healed. Always check the water temperature (96.8–98.6°F) and support your baby at all times. Use gentle, fragrance-free bath gel 2–3 times a week. Keep baths short, warm, and calm. If your baby cries, shorten the bath or adjust the routine.

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What’s Inside

Quick takeaways

  • Bathe your newborn starting from their first days once the umbilical stump has healed. Before that, use gentle sponge baths.
  • Always hold your baby securely in the bath and never leave them unattended.
  • Use a hypoallergenic baby wash (not soap!) 2–3 times a week to avoid drying out their skin.
  • Keep baths calm and short (5–10 minutes). If your baby dislikes water, try moving the ritual to mornings or shortening the time.

The First Bath Can Happen on the Day You Return Home

Follow your baby’s cues. The only exception is if the umbilical area hasn’t healed—stick to sponge baths to avoid wetting it.

Don’t worry if the umbilical stump hasn’t fallen off yet. Gently wash the skin around it and pat dry with a soft towel.

Once the stump falls off, clean the area with baby wash and dry thoroughly. If there’s no redness or swelling, no extra care is needed. Consult your pediatrician if you notice signs of infection.

Prepare Everything Before Bathing

Ensure you have:

  • A baby tub (or a clean regular bathtub)
  • A water thermometer
  • A soft towel (test its absorbency beforehand—no lint left behind!)
  • Baby wash or foam (labeled *0+* or newborn) – avoid soap
  • Clean clothes and a diaper
  • Cotton pads for eyes and ears

Baby’s Skin Is Delicate

Use gentle bathing products like oils or emulsions if prescribed. If dryness persists, ask your pediatrician for recommendations.

Safety Rules

  • Water temperature: 36–37°C (test with a thermometer or your elbow)
  • Room temperature: 22–24°C (no drafts!)
  • Bath time: 5–10 minutes initially, then gradually increase
  • Never leave your baby alone in water
  • Use boiled water only if tap water is unsafe
  • Skip herbal additives or potassium permanganate—plain water is best

Turn Bathing into a Smooth Routine

  1. Fill the tub and check the water temperature.
  1. Undress your baby, support their head, and lower them into the water.
  1. Wash from head to toes with your hand or a soft sponge.
  1. Rinse the face and hair. Use cotton pads for eyes (wipe outward to inward, one pad per eye).
  1. After bathing, wrap your baby in a towel and pat dry, paying attention to skin folds.
  1. Avoid creams or oils unless recommended by your pediatrician—they can disrupt natural thermoregulation.

If Your Baby Cries or Fears Water

  • Crying during baths: Check water temperature, ensure comfort, and use a soothing voice.
  • Fear of water: Try bathing them in a swaddle for a sense of security.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bathing Your Baby

When can I start bathing my newborn?

Usually, you can bathe your newborn after coming home from the hospital if the umbilical area has healed. If it has not healed yet, use gentle sponge baths and avoid wetting that area. Once the stump falls off, clean the belly button gently with baby wash and dry it well with a towel.

What water temperature is best for bathing a baby?

Usually, the best bath water temperature is 36–37 °C. Check it with a thermometer or your elbow: the water should feel pleasantly warm. Keep the room at 22–24 °C and avoid drafts. First baths should be short, about 5–10 minutes.

Can I bathe my baby every day?

Yes, bathing with plain water can be part of a daily routine. But baby wash or foam should be used only 2–3 times a week to avoid drying out sensitive skin. After the bath, gently pat the skin dry, especially in the folds.

Why does my baby cry during bath time?

Often, babies cry because the water is too hot or too cold, they feel uncomfortable, or the process is still unfamiliar. Check the water temperature, shorten the bath, and speak in a calm voice. If your baby is afraid of water, try bathing them in a swaddle.

Sources

  • “WHO recommendations on intrapartum care for a positive childbirth experience”, WHO, ISBN 978-92-4-003695-6
  • American Academy of Pediatrics. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5. 7th edition. New York: Bantam Books; 2019. ISBN: 978-1984817705