It can be frightening to learn how to give a newborn a bath for the first time, especially for first-time parents. Bathing can feel stressful because newborns are small, delicate, and often wiggly. The good news is that how to give a newborn a bath does not have to be difficult. With the right planning, proper timing, and a gentle technique, bath time can become a calm and bonding experience for both you and your baby.
This guide explains how to give a newborn a bath safely, when to bathe a newborn for the first time, and what pediatric professionals recommend to keep your baby clean and comfortable.
Quick Answer for Parents
Two or three times a week, you can use lukewarm water to give a newborn a sponge bath. Sponge baths are advised until the umbilical cord stump falls off. When giving your baby a bath, make sure the room is warm, support their head and neck, and never leave them alone.
When Can You Give a Newborn Their First Bath
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, delaying a newborn’s first bath helps regulate body temperature and supports early bonding and breastfeeding.
Most health organizations advise delaying a newborn’s first bath for at least 24 hours after birth. Understanding how to give a newborn a bath at the right time helps protect the baby’s natural skin barrier, supports early breastfeeding, and aids in regulating body temperature.
In the first few days at home, many parents focus on how to give a newborn a bath using gentle sponge baths, especially after spit-up or diaper messes. A full tub bath should wait until the umbilical cord stump has completely dried and fallen off, which usually happens within one to two weeks.
What You Need Before Bathing a Newborn
It is crucial to have everything prepared before beginning. It is dangerous to leave a baby alone, even for a brief period of time. Set up a warm space, a fresh towel, a gentle washcloth, a basin or baby bathtub, a clean diaper, clean clothes, and a mild, fragrance-free baby cleanser if necessary.
You can give your baby your whole attention during the bath when everything is at your fingertips.
Sponge Bath vs Tub Bath for Newborns
Newborns should take a sponge bath until the stump of the umbilical cord falls off. The baby remains mostly dry during a sponge bath as you use a warm, moist washcloth to gently clean one area at a time.
You can switch to a tub bath after the cord stump has healed. The safest option is a tiny baby bathtub with only a few inches of water. Although tub baths allow for gentle submersion, the baby’s head and neck still need to be constantly supported.
How to Give a Newborn a Sponge Bath Step by Step
Start by putting your infant on a level, secure surface, like a towel-covered bed or a padded changing table. Only the area you are cleaning should be visible when you undress your infant, keeping them covered with a towel.
Start by using a fresh, moist cloth to gently wipe each eye, using a different corner of the cloth for each eye. Next, wash your face without using soap. Proceed to the hands, arms, torso, and neck folds. To prevent the spread of germs, clean the diaper area last. To keep your baby warm, gently dry each area before proceeding.
When you’re done, make sure your baby is completely dry, change their diaper, and dress them right away.
How to Bathe a Newborn in a Tub Safely
When learning how to give a newborn a bath using a tub, begin by adding two to three inches of warm water to the baby bathtub. The ideal water temperature is between 98 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which closely matches normal body temperature.
As part of how to give a newborn a bath safely, support your baby’s head and neck with one arm while gently washing the body with your other hand. Clean the face first using plain water, then use a very small amount of mild baby cleanser for the body if needed. Keep the bath short, usually five to ten minutes, to prevent chilling and dryness.
Once the bath is complete, carefully lift your baby out, wrap them in a towel right away, and gently pat them dry.
What Is the Right Water Temperature for a Newborn Bath
Water temperature is important because newborn skin is extremely sensitive. Instead of feeling hot, the water should feel warm. Putting your elbow or wrist in the water is a good way to test it. It is probably safe for your baby if it is comfortable for you.
Particularly for new parents, using a digital bath thermometer can provide additional peace of mind.
How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn
Bathing a newborn every day is not necessary. They can be kept clean by taking a bath two or three times a week. Excessive bathing can irritate sensitive skin and dry it out.
You can use a warm cloth to wipe your baby’s face, hands, neck folds, and diaper area when necessary on days when they don’t get a bath.
For a detailed breakdown of bathing frequency and expert guidance, read our complete guide on how often you should bathe a newborn.
Common Newborn Bathing Mistakes to Avoid
Many parents inadvertently use adult soaps or products with strong scents, which can irritate a newborn’s skin. Another common mistake is taking too many baths or allowing the room to get too cold.
Never leave your baby alone in the bathtub, even for a brief period of time. Supports and seats for the bathroom should not be used in place of adult supervision or depended upon for safety.
Pediatrician-Recommended Newborn Bath Safety Tips
When giving your baby a bath, always keep one hand on them. Baths should be calm and brief. Use only baby products that are gentle and fragrance-free. Some babies just need time to get used to bath time, so if they cry, move slowly and talk softly.
See your pediatrician for advice if you experience redness, rashes, or excessive dryness after bathing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct way to bathe a newborn?
The correct way to bathe a newborn is to start with a sponge bath until the umbilical cord stump falls off. Keep the room warm, use lukewarm water, and always support your baby’s head and neck. Clean the face first with plain water, then gently wash the body, saving the diaper area for last. Never leave your baby unattended, even for a moment.
When should we start bathing a newborn baby?
Most health experts recommend delaying a newborn’s first bath for at least 24 hours after birth. During the first few days at home, gentle sponge baths are enough to keep your baby clean. Full tub baths should begin only after the umbilical cord stump has completely dried and fallen off, which usually takes one to two weeks.
How to bathe a newborn after the cord falls off?
Once the cord has healed, you can bathe your newborn in a small baby bathtub with two to three inches of warm water. Support your baby’s head and neck with one arm and gently wash with the other. Use plain water for the face and a small amount of mild, fragrance-free baby cleanser for the body if needed. Keep the bath short, around five to ten minutes.
What are common mistakes to avoid when bathing a baby?
Common mistakes include bathing too often, using adult or scented soaps, making the bath too long, and bathing in a cold room. Another serious mistake is leaving the baby unattended, even briefly. Bath seats and supports should never replace hands-on supervision.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to give a newborn a bath takes time and practice, and it is completely normal to feel a little uneasy at first. With gentle handling, proper preparation, and a calm approach, bath time can become a comforting and reassuring routine for both you and your baby.
This information is intended to provide general guidance on how to give a newborn a bath and should not replace advice from your pediatrician. If you have any concerns about your newborn’s skin or overall health, always consult a qualified medical professional.