Your newborn baby is so small and wiggly – and so surprisingly slippery in the bath. No wonder you may feel like no bath is safer. All it takes is a few tips and things to remember and a bit of practice.
Before you know it, you’ll be getting your baby in and out of the bath, and wrapped up in a warm and soft towel, without having to think much about it.
Not too early and don’t over bathe
According to healthychildren.org, “The World Health Organization” (WHO) recommends delaying baby’s first bath until 24 hours after birth—or waiting at least 6 hours if a full day isn’t possible for cultural reasons.”
Babies don’t need to bathed every day as it removes essential oils from their skin, so they could get prone to getting dry and flakey skin. Most experts recommend only to wash your newborn every few days to protect their skin.
Sponge bath your infant for the first few weeks
During the first few weeks sponge baths are the best option until their body adjusts to temperature change and he umbilical cord falls off.
Make sure the water for the sponge bath is warm and so is the room you are in. Make sure to pay attention to all the folds in the neck, behind the ears and in he diaper area.
Once the umbilical cord falls off you can safely switch to giving your little newborn a bath.
Use a small tub or the sink
As always, your baby’s safety is always the first priority, which is why a sink with a towel or a small plastic tub, makes the ideal baby bath tub.
Make sure you place all the essentials needed within reach while being able to support baby safely. Only fill a tub or sink with 2-3 inches of water and again make sure that the room is nice and warm.
It is best to use a sponge to clean your baby’s body and wash their face.
Always support baby
One hand should always be supporting baby. Ideally you have a partner that can help you with your first bath so it is not too overwhelming trying to handle it all by yourself. Make sure the head is supported at all times.
Use baby safe products
Best products to use on your babies sensitive skin are fragrance free, mild and hypo – allergenic.
Always have a warm, dry, soft towel ready to dry off baby. Put a new diaper on and get your little one dressed. After the nice warm bath your little one would love to cuddle up and and feed.
My name is Tanja and I am a Maternity and Newborn photographer in North Vancouver. I’d love to schedule a consultation with you so you can learn more about me and how we can create your perfect stress-free session. You can contact me online or give me a call at (604) 771.7602. I can’t wait to meet you and your precious little one!
