Baby Bath
Everything You Need to Know About Bathing Your Baby with Confidence and Care
Washing your baby for the first time can feel like a delicate mission — tiny limbs, slippery soap, and a wiggly little body can make bath time feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry. With the right setup and a few gentle techniques, bathing your baby can turn into one of the sweetest bonding rituals of your day.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to washing your baby safely and confidently — plus answers to the most common parent questions.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to washing your baby safely and confidently — plus answers to the most common parent questions.
First Things First:
How Often Should I Bathe My Baby?
How Often Should I Bathe My Baby?
For newborns, 3 times a week is plenty — daily baths aren’t necessary and can dry out their sensitive skin. Until the umbilical cord stump falls off (usually around 1–2 weeks), stick to sponge baths. Once it heals, you can transition to a gentle bath in a baby tub or the sink.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, gather your bath-time essentials so you’re never scrambling mid-rinse:
- A soft towel (hooded ones are great)
- Baby wash or gentle soap (fragrance-free is best)
- A clean diaper and clothes for after
- A small cup for rinsing
- Washcloth or soft sponge
- A baby bathtub or clean sink
- Warm water (check the temp: it should feel comfortably warm, not hot — around 37–38°C)
Step-by-Step:
How to Wash a Baby Safely
How to Wash a Baby Safely
Prep the Space
Make sure the room is warm and draft-free. Babies get cold quickly, so keeping them cozy is key.
Check the Water
Fill the baby tub or sink with just a few inches of warm water. Always test the water with your wrist or elbow — it should feel like a warm bath, not hot.
Undress Your Baby Gently
If they’re nervous, you can keep their upper body covered with a warm, wet washcloth while washing their lower half — and vice versa.
Clean from Top to Bottom
Hair Last
If your baby already has hair, use a bit of water to gently rinse and massage the scalp. Baby shampoo is optional and not needed every time.
Wrap and Snuggle
Lift your baby out with a firm grip under the arms, supporting the head. Wrap them in a warm towel immediately and pat them dry — don’t rub.
Make sure the room is warm and draft-free. Babies get cold quickly, so keeping them cozy is key.
Check the Water
Fill the baby tub or sink with just a few inches of warm water. Always test the water with your wrist or elbow — it should feel like a warm bath, not hot.
Undress Your Baby Gently
If they’re nervous, you can keep their upper body covered with a warm, wet washcloth while washing their lower half — and vice versa.
Clean from Top to Bottom
- Start with the face, using a clean part of the cloth for each eye (wipe from the inside out).
- Move to the neck folds, armpits, and behind the ears (baby milk loves to hide here).
- Gently wash the torso, arms, legs, and then genitals — always from cleanest to dirtiest areas.
- For baby girls, wipe front to back. For boys, avoid pulling back the foreskin if uncircumcised.
Hair Last
If your baby already has hair, use a bit of water to gently rinse and massage the scalp. Baby shampoo is optional and not needed every time.
Wrap and Snuggle
Lift your baby out with a firm grip under the arms, supporting the head. Wrap them in a warm towel immediately and pat them dry — don’t rub.
🌿 Tips for a Calmer Bath Time
Bath time can be a soothing ritual when done right. Talk or sing to your baby to comfort them, choose a time when they’re well-rested and fed, maintain eye contact to build trust, and stick to a routine—babies feel most secure when things are predictable.
Yes — but only sponge baths until it falls off and heals.
This is totally normal. Try adjusting the water temperature, using a warm cloth on their belly for comfort, or keeping bath time short and sweet.
You can, but it’s not necessary — and for newborns, too much bathing can dry their skin. Focus more on cleaning folds and diaper areas daily.
Bathing your baby isn’t just about hygiene — it’s about connection. Those few moments of warmth, touch, and gentle care help build trust and comfort for both of you. Keep it simple, stay calm, and follow your baby’s cues. You’ve got this!
Alex Haluzo
Lead Paediatrician
at Amia
at Amia