Sure, bathing a baby isn’t rocket science and anyone can do that. But it becomes tricky if your newborn doesn’t like her bath time. Learning some tips and steps on how to bathe a baby will make the process easier for you.
Bathing your baby is not just about cleanliness. It can be a lovely bonding time for you and your little one. Some babies love a warm water bath right from the start, while few need a little time getting used to the routine. And if you clean your baby’s diaper area frequently then your baby won’t need much bathing. Before bathing your baby, make sure you have all the bath essentials such as natural baby shampoo, baby body wash, towels, a bath tub, a soft brush, wash clothes and hooded towel at home.
Step-by-step guide on how to bathe a baby
Prepare the scene
You can bathe your baby in a small plastic tub. You can also place the baby tub in your large tub in the bathroom. You can bathe your baby in any bathroom that is warm, safe and clean. If your baby is headed to the big tub, then make sure its equipped with safety features like keeping the faucets covered and having a non-slip floor mat. Remember to keep the room warm by keeping the windows and doors closed because cold air can make babies uncomfortable which can lead to a fussy bath time.
Get all your supplies ready and at one place
When you are all set to bathe your baby, don’t step away, even for a moment. Just remember this as the golden rule – never ever leave the baby alone. If possible, then ask a family member to assist you when you bathe the baby so that the baby is never left alone. Before you start bathing your baby, gather all the bath essentials you may need, keep them ready and next to you. These are a few things that you will need to clean your baby:
- A mild cleanser and a tear-free shampoo.
- Cotton balls for cleaning the face.
- Bath toys for older babies.
- A hooded towel.
- Diaper supplies.
- Fragrance-free hypoallergenic moisturizer
- A clean outfit
Wash your baby gently and slowly
Fill the tub with cold water first and then the hot water. Test the water with your wrist or your elbow to make sure the water is the right temperature for your baby.
Make sure to bathe the baby in the right order.
- Using a soft cloth or cotton balls, clean the baby’s face, neck, and ears.
- Cradle your baby’s head with one arm, supporting their head and neck with the other arm. Gently lower them into the bath, feet first, keeping a close hold at all times. Use a baby body wash to gently clean the skin.
- Supporting their head, lay your baby down in the bath so the back of their head is submerged. Gently splash some water onto the head. Use a natural baby shampoo to clean the baby’s hair and scalp.
- Clean from top to bottom and don’t miss the folds on the arms and the legs, behind the ears and around the neck.
- Gently wash your baby’s genitals and bottom last, using only water. If needed, use only a mild cleanser on the bottom area.
Dry off your baby and keep them warm
After the bath, supporting your baby’s head and neck, lift them out of the bath and place them on a clean towel and keep them warm.
Wrap them in a warm towel and pat them dry. Pay attention to the skin creases, including armpits, groin, under the chin, around the neck, and behind the ears.
Use a hypollergenic natural baby lotion to keep the skin silky smooth.
Dress your baby, putting on their nappy first and place them in her bassinet or a cot and then finish dressing them up.
By following these steps and by using natural baby products, you can ensure that your baby enjoys bath time and looks forward to bathing.