Bathing your newborn can be a risky as well as a scary experience, especially during the initial few weeks. When the baby is wet and soapy there are chances that the baby may slip. Hence, one needs to be quite careful while bathing the baby at least in the initial few days till one is comfortable in having a good grip of the baby while bathing. There is no fixed amount of time required to bathe your baby as the time required for bathing you baby varies. The temperament of your baby shall be the deciding factor regarding the length of bathing time required. There are some babies who quietly take bath without any commotion while there are some other types of baby who scream from the start to the end while bathing them. Bathing such babies shall consume more time. Until the umbilical stump does not fall off, your baby shall not require an actual bath. Till then you can sponge your baby. After the umbilical stump falls off and the adjacent area heals then you can commence giving your baby tub baths.
Supplies required for bathing your baby
There are a few essential bathing supplies required to ensure a smooth baby bathing experience. These supplies should be placed closed to you while you bath your baby. These bath supplies include -
Two Towels
Cooled boiled water
Baby shampoo
Baby bath or washing up bowl
Bath thermometer
Small jug or cup
Talc
Clean nappy
Tips for bathing your baby
Below are mentioned a few tips and safety measures to be followed while bathing your baby.
- Set the water heater in your home to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, else warmer water could lead to severe third degree burns.
- Avoid leaving your baby in the tub unattended, as there are chances that the baby may drown.
- Keep all the baby supplies close to you.
- Undress your baby only when you are ready to bathe else they may become unreasonably chilled.
- Wash your baby with a soapy cloth from top to bottom and front to back. Check behind the ears and clean the genital area thoroughly.
- Rinse the baby thoroughly before removing them from the tub.
- The baby’s face and eyes should be washed using a cotton wool and clean boiled water. Avoid using any soap. Wipe the face from the middle of the face outwards.
- Support the baby’s back and head by placing your arm under the body and place your hand behind the neck.
- After the bathing is finished, wrap the baby in a warm towel and pat dry the baby.
Enjoy the experience of bathing your baby by keeping the above mentioned tips in your mind while bathing your new born.
