How to Bathe a Newborn – 7 Gentle Steps for New Parents

How to bathe a newborn can feel intimidating at first. But with the right steps, it becomes a gentle and safe routine. This baby bath step-by-step guide offers expert-backed advice for first-time parents to keep their little one comfortable and scratch-free.

When Should You Start Bathing a Newborn?

According to pediatricians, you don’t need to give your newborn a full bath right after birth. Instead, start with sponge baths until the umbilical cord stump falls off — usually within the first 1 to 2 weeks. Once that happens, you can begin the first baby bath at home using a small plastic tub.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Newborn?

Wondering how often to bathe a newborn? Two to three baths per week are enough. Overbathing may dry out their sensitive skin. Focus on cleaning the diaper area, neck folds, and hands daily with a soft cloth or sponge.

What You’ll Need for Bath Time

Here’s a list to answer the question: what do I need to bathe a baby?

Soft baby washcloth
Mild, fragrance-free baby soap and shampoo
Plastic baby bathtub or sink insert
Soft towel (preferably with a hood)
Clean diaper and clothes
Warm water at newborn bath temperature (about 37–38°C / 98.6–100.4°F)

How to Bathe a Newborn: Step-by-Step

Prepare the space: Gather all items and ensure the room is warm and draft-free.
Fill the tub: Add about 2–3 inches of warm water and test it with your wrist or elbow.
Undress your baby: Gently remove clothes and wrap the baby in a towel, leaving only parts to be washed exposed.
Start with the face: Use plain water and a soft cloth to clean the face, avoiding soap around the eyes.
Wash the body: Use a small amount of baby soap for the neck, arms, chest, and diaper area.
Clean the scalp: Use a tiny bit of baby shampoo and rinse with cupped hand or cup.
Rinse and wrap: Gently pour water to rinse off soap, then lift the baby out and wrap in a warm towel immediately.

Baby Bath Safety Tips

Always prioritize baby bath safety:

Never leave your baby unattended, not even for a moment.
Always keep one hand supporting your baby.
Test the water temperature before placing your baby in the tub.
Dry all creases and folds to prevent irritation.

Making Bath Time Enjoyable

Use calming music, gentle words, or lullabies to make the experience pleasant. Keep the environment peaceful and warm. With time, your baby will associate bath time with comfort and care.

Final Thoughts

Mastering how to bathe a newborn becomes easier with practice. With these newborn bath tips and the right supplies, you can make every bath a safe, loving, and enjoyable experience.