Bathing your newborn is a special moment, but new parents may fumble regarding the frequency of baths for their baby. Because babies have delicate skin and are quite small, most of them do not require a bath every day. Here are the practical guidelines that every parent should know in order not to get lost in this aspect of taking care of a baby.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Newborn?
Newborns are sensitive, and frequent bathing can dry out their delicate skin. Therefore, it’s advisable to bathe them around 2-4 times a week. It is also recommended that you wash your newborn face, neck, and diaper area daily if sufficient.
Why Newborns Don’t Need Daily Baths
Unlike adults, newborns don’t sweat or get dirty in the same way. Their skin is naturally sensitive and benefits from less exposure to water and soap. Over-bathing can strip their skin of essential oils, leading to dryness or irritation.
Do you want some quick tips for between baths? Then, continue reading.
- Wipe their face and hands with a soft cloth daily.
- Clean the diaper area thoroughly during changes.
- Use fragrance-free baby wipes or warm water for gentle cleaning.
Best Time Of Day For A Bath
The timing of a newborn’s bath depends on what works for you and your baby. Different parents prefer different timings. However, the best recommended timing is written below.
- A morning bath for a fresh start to the day.
- An evening bath to relax the baby before bedtime.
How To Safely Bathe A Newborn
Bathing a newborn requires gentle handling and proper tools. Do you want to know how you can ensure a safe bath for your newborn? Read below.
- Use a shallow baby tub or sink filled with warm (not hot) water
- Support their head and neck at all times
- Use mild, fragrance-free baby soap
Do you want to know the essential bathing supplies that you’ll need? Have a look.
- A soft washcloth and baby towel
- Baby-safe soap and shampoo
- A cup or small container for rinsing
When To Increase Bath Frequency
As your baby grows older, they’ll become more and more active. And then you may notice that they’ll become even more dirtier. Therefore, after 2-3 months, you can gradually increase the frequency of the bath if your baby is fond of water.
Watch For Signs Of Over-Bathing
If a baby has dry, red, or peeling skin, this can be a sign that your baby bathes too often. It might be wise to bathe your baby less often or use an allergy-free baby moisturizer after giving them a bath.
The Key Takeaway
Bathing your newborn shouldn’t be a stressful activity. Bath time can be a bonding and calming experience for both you and your baby if you carry out simple routines.