How is Baby Bath Done?

Bathing a baby involves carefully and gently cleaning them using warm water and mild soap. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Preparing for the Bath

1. Gather Supplies: Before you start, have everything you need within reach:
   • A baby bathtub or a clean sink.
   • A soft washcloth.
   • Mild, tear-free baby soap or cleanser.
   • A clean towel.
   • A clean diaper.
   • Clean clothes.
2. Prepare the Bathing Area: Choose a warm, draft-free room. Fill the baby tub or sink with no more than 3 inches of warm water. Check the water temperature with your wrist or elbow to ensure it's comfortable but not hot (around 100°F or 38°C).
3. Undress Your Baby: Gently remove your baby's clothes and diaper.

Bathing Your Baby

1. Support Your Baby: Always support your baby's head and neck during the bath.
2. Start with the Face:
   • Use a clean, damp washcloth (no soap) to gently wipe your baby's eyelids, starting from the inner corner and moving outward. Use a different part of the washcloth for each eye.
   • Wash your baby's face with only water, avoiding soap in their eyes.
3. Clean the Ears: Use a clean, damp washcloth to gently clean the outer part of your baby's ears. Never insert anything into your baby's ear canal.
4. Wash the Hair: Wet your baby's head with water and apply a small amount of baby shampoo. Gently massage the shampoo into their scalp and rinse thoroughly, being careful to avoid their eyes.
5. Wash the Body: Use a soapy washcloth to gently clean your baby's body, paying attention to areas like the neck, armpits, and between the fingers and toes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
6. Clean the Diaper Area: Wash the diaper area last, using a clean washcloth and mild soap. Be sure to clean all the creases and folds. Rinse thoroughly.

After the Bath

1. Dry Your Baby: Immediately wrap your baby in a clean, soft towel and gently pat them dry, paying attention to all the folds of skin.
2. Moisturize (Optional): If your baby has dry skin, you can apply a gentle, fragrance-free baby lotion.
3. Dress Your Baby: Put on a clean diaper and clothes.

Important Considerations

• Never leave your baby unattended in the bath, even for a second.
• Keep the bath short (5-10 minutes) to prevent your baby from getting cold.
• Newborns don't need a bath every day. Two or three times a week is usually sufficient. Sponge baths can be used on the other days to keep the diaper area clean.
• Be gentle and reassuring. Talk to your baby in a calm and soothing voice throughout the bath.