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But babies do not get as dirty as adults or older kids. Their skin is sensitive, delicate, and still getting used to the environment. Because of this, bathing your baby too often can sometimes do more harm than good. Understanding what your baby really needs can help you feel more confident and relaxed during this phase.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Newborn?
In the first few weeks of life, your newborn does not need a daily bath. Babies only need to be bathed 2 to 3 times a week, and bathing too often can dry out their delicate skin.
Since most newborns do not sweat much or become dirty, there is not a high demand for them to take baths often.
On non-bath days, you can wipe down your baby's face, neck, hands, and the area around their diaper to help keep the baby clean and minimise exposure to water.
Why Your Baby Does Not Need to Be Bathed Every Day?
Even if it feels instinctive for you to want to bathe your baby every day, the skin on newborns is very distinct from the skin we have as adults. Newborns have thinner and more fragile skin, and they tend to get drier than children do.
If you bathe your baby too frequently, it can remove the natural moisture from their skin and leave them with dry or irritated skin.
Also, newborns are typically wearing clean clothing and diapers, and therefore do not get soiled as quickly as older children do. Changing the baby's diaper regularly and cleaning only the visible areas of the baby's skin will usually be sufficient to keep your baby clean between baths.
What Are Some Alternatives to Daily Baths?
Focus on the skin folds, as moisture can collect and cause irritation to those areas if they are not cleaned. There are several different ways you can clean your baby without giving them a full bath.
You can clean your baby's:
- Face
- Neck folds
- Hands
- Diaper area
From When Can You Bathe Your Baby Regularly?
When you first take your baby home, and until the umbilical cord stump falls off, it is suggested to sponge bathe them instead of giving them tub baths. Once the umbilical cord stump has healed, you can then give your baby a gentle bath in a small tub or basin.
After that, you can continue to bathe your baby two to three times per week, unless your baby is extremely dirty or enjoys being in the water so much that you want to give them more.
When Should You Bathe Your Baby More Frequently?
While routine bathing does not need to occur on a daily basis, there will be times you may want to give your baby an extra bath.
You may want to bathe your baby if:
- They had a recent diaper leak or blowout
- Their skin is soiled with spit-up or milk
- Your baby enjoys and finds comfort in the bath
Right Time to Bathe Your Newborn?
There is no right time to bathe your baby. Pick a time that works for you.
Some parents will choose:
- When the baby is awake and alert, usually in the morning
- As part of a soothing bedtime routine
- Most importantly, pick a time when they are awake, happy, and not too hungry or tired
- Bathing them right after they feed may make them uncomfortable, so it is best to wait a bit
Bathing Your Newborn Safely
Bathing your baby is an excellent way for you and your baby to get connected, and it is also important to practice safe bathing.
Some safety tips:
- Always keep an eye on your baby while in the water
- Make sure the water is warm, but not hot
- Use your wrist or elbow to check the temperature before putting your baby into the water
- Ensure that you keep the room warm for your baby
- Ensure that you are always supporting your baby’s head and neck
- Be aware that even small amounts of water can be unsafe for babies; therefore, it is essential to monitor your baby constantly
Do You Need Soap Every Time?
Most of the time, during the first couple of weeks, you will find plain water is sufficient for bath time.
If you do wish to use soap, it should be:
- Mild
- Fragrance free
- Baby-friendly soap
A Few Steps To Help Bathe Your Newborn
Bathing your newborn becomes easier with practice. Having everything you need on hand before starting can also smooth the process.
Generally, the steps in a bath are:
- Wash your baby’s face first with a gentle cloth
- Wash baby’s hair with plain water
- Wash your baby’s body, in particular the folds and diaper area
- Gently lower the baby into the warm water
- Support the head and neck while bathing
- Gently pat the baby between the belly button and the knees after the bath, paying special attention to the folds of their skin to ensure there is no moisture left behind
Creating a Soothing Experience During Bathing for Your Newborn
The bathing process does not have to be stressful for both the baby and you. Bath time can be relaxing and enjoyable. To make bath time more comfortable, you can:
- Use soft, calming voices while bathing the baby
- Make eye contact with the baby as you bathe him or her
- Keep the temperature of the room at a comfortable temperature
- Wrap the baby in a soft and clean towel before and after bathing
As newborns grow and become more physically active, you can gradually change how many times per week you bathe them (with average recommendations). Basically, the most important part of caring for your baby is not how often they are bathed, but rather how gentle and safe you care for them.
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FAQs on How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn Baby?
- Is it ok to bathe a newborn each day?
Daily bathing of a newborn typically is not required, and, therefore, will result in excessive dryness of their skin. Newborns are usually bathed no more than 2 or 3 times per week, which is sufficient. - What is the best way to clean a newborn if my baby does not require a full bath?
You can use a soft, warm washcloth to gently wipe down baby's face, neck, hands, and diaper area. - Will my baby need a complete bath after his or her umbilical cord falls off?
Yes, once the umbilical cord falls off and heals, you will be able to give your baby a complete bath.