When do I bathe my baby?
Pick a time that is good for you to bathe your baby. Your baby may not look "dirty" but because of spit-ups and dirty diapers your baby will feel better after a bath. Sponge bathe your baby until the baby's cord falls off.
Where do I bathe my baby?
Find a warm place to bathe your baby Use a clean tub, sink or baby bathtub. A sponge bath can be given on top of any counter or table.
What do I need?
A clean tub, sink or baby bath tub
Mild soap (IvoryTM, DoveTM, or any baby soap)
Clean baby clothes and blanket
Clean bath towel and cloth
A baby shampoo that is "no tears" Gather all of your items before you start the bath.
How do I check the water temperature?
Check the bath water. Dip your wrist into the bath water. If it is not too hot or cold on your wrist, then it is OK for the baby Hot water can burn and cold water can chill.
How do I bathe my baby?
1. First, wash your baby's face. Wash the face with water only, no soap. Wipe each eye from the inner corner to the outer corner, using a different part of the cloth for each eye.
2. Next, shampoo. your baby's hair. Hold the baby's head and try not to get water in your baby's ears. Sometimes babies get cradle cap (white scales on the baby's head).You can treat this yourself. Rub a little baby oil on the baby's head. Then shampoo your baby's hair and dry your baby's head. The cradle cap should get better in a few days. If it does not, call your baby's Health Care Provider.
3. Next, bathe the baby's neck, arms and body. Wash well between the folds of the neck, arms, and legs.
4. In the diaper area, clean and dry your little boy's penis and scrotum gently. Little girls need gentle cleaning, too. Wash your little girl from the front to the back in the diaper area. Gently clean and dry the outer vulvas first, then spread the labia majora and gently clean.
5. Clean and dry your baby's bottom last.
DRYING BABY AND FINAL TOUCHES
1. Dry your baby well between the skin folds.
2. You may use a small amount of baby lotion on your baby's skin
3. Cut your baby's nails using baby nail clippers or baby nail scissors. You may find it easier to trim nails when baby is sound asleep.
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