How to Bathe a Newborn: Complete Guide for First-Time Parents
Nervous about your baby's first bath? Read this guide first.
When Can You Start Bathing?
Newborn baths can begin 24-48 hours after birth. However, until the umbilical cord falls off, sponge baths are recommended instead of full baths.
Before cord falls off: Sponge bath only
After cord falls off: Full bath OK (usually 10-21 days after birth)
Bath Supplies Checklist
Set up everything before starting. Never leave your baby to search for something mid-bath.
Essential Items
- Baby bathtub - Newborn-specific or folding tub
- Bath thermometer - Essential for checking water temp
- Soft towels (2-3) - Hooded towels recommended
- Washcloths - For face and body
- Baby body wash - Gentle, fragrance-free
- Moisturizer - Apply right after bath
- Clean diaper and clothes
Water and Room Temperature
Water temperature: 98-100°F (37-38°C) - Similar to body temperature
Room temperature: 75-78°F (24-26°C) - Prevents chilling
If you don't have a thermometer, test with your inner elbow. It should feel warm but not hot.
Temperature Check Tips
- Your elbow is more sensitive than your hand
- Too hot = burn risk; too cold = hypothermia risk
- In winter, warm up the room beforehand
Step-by-Step Bathing Guide
1. Preparation
- Place all supplies within arm's reach
- Check room temperature (75-78°F / 24-26°C)
- Check water temperature (98-100°F / 37-38°C)
- Keep baby dressed until ready
2. Clean Face First (Before Water)
- Wet a clean washcloth and wring it out
- Eyes: Wipe from inner corner outward (use different part for each eye)
- Clean around nose, mouth, behind ears, and neck folds
3. Wash Hair
- Hold baby in football hold (support head and neck with one hand)
- Hold over tub and wet only the head
- Use small amount of shampoo, massage scalp gently
- Rinse with clean water
- Wrap head with towel
Football hold: Baby's back rests on your forearm, your hand supports their head and neck.
4. Wash Body
- Undress baby and lower into tub slowly
- Neck, armpits, hands → Chest, belly → Back → Legs, feet
- Pay attention to creases: groin, between fingers/toes
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap
5. After Bath
- Wrap in warm towel immediately
- Pat dry instead of rubbing
- Dry creases well (neck, armpits, groin)
- Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of bath
- Put on diaper and clothes
Umbilical Cord Care
Before the cord falls off, don't submerge it in water. Clean around it carefully.
Before Cord Falls Off
- After bath, dry around cord with cotton swab
- Alcohol cleaning is no longer recommended (air dry naturally)
- Fold diaper below the cord stump
- Keep it aired out
When to See a Doctor
- Red, swollen skin around the cord
- Yellow discharge or foul smell
- Bleeding that won't stop
- Cord hasn't fallen off after 3 weeks
Tips for New Parents
Bath Timing
- Avoid right after feeding (risk of spitting up)
- 30 minutes to 1 hour before feeding is ideal
- Bath time should be 5-10 minutes max
- Daily baths aren't necessary (2-3 times per week is fine)
If Baby Cries
- Talk or sing to comfort them
- Double-check water temperature
- Keep bath time short
- Place warm washcloth on baby's belly
Safety Rules
NEVER leave your baby alone!
Drowning can happen in just 2 inches of water. If the phone rings, take baby with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need to bathe my baby every day?
No. Newborns don't sweat much, so 2-3 baths per week is enough. However, clean the diaper area and neck folds daily.
Q. My baby is scared of water
This is normal at first. Instead of putting baby directly in water, try wrapping them in a warm washcloth and lowering them slowly.
Q. Do I need soap every time?
Not every time. Use soap 2-3 times per week, and just use water for other baths.
Q. Can I use the same product for hair and body?
Yes, newborn all-in-one wash works from head to toe. Just make sure it says "newborn" or "gentle/hypoallergenic."
The first bath is nerve-wracking, but you'll get the hang of it!
After a few tries, it becomes second nature. Don't stress about perfection.