Once your baby is past the newborn stage, you can take them with you for bathing and cleaning.
It is best not to bathe newborn babies because their heads need support at all times, and it is more difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. In addition, experts recommend using a sponge bath only to clean your baby until the umbilical cord stump has fallen off.
Before taking your baby in the bath, make sure the water temperature is comfortable and safe, just like taking a bath. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends setting the water heater to no higher than 120 degrees to avoid burns.
The best way to test the temperature is to place the bath thermometer directly under the stream of water – the temperature should be between 90 and 100 degrees. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the water temperature at your wrist or elbow – the water never feels very hot and may even be much cooler than a normal shower.
When you take your baby in the bath for the first time, gradually bring them into the shower and position yourself so that the water does not splash on their head and face. Keep a small, dry towel nearby to wipe their face if the towel gets wet and upset them or if soap gets into their eyes.
In the beginning, you may want to limit your shower time to a few minutes. If your child is crying, follow your child’s guidance and don’t force it. Some children don’t like the feeling of water being poured on them from above and prefer to sit in a bucket of warm water to wash it.
Once your child is able to walk, you can go to the bath without a hug. But you still need to get close to keep them safe and handle the work of soaping, shampooing, and rinsing. You may want a “family shower” with your partner and baby so you can take turns holding your baby while the other person washes.
Tips for Taking Your Baby in the Bath
- Be extra careful not to let your baby fall. Your baby will be slippery, and when you’re both wet, you’ll be slippery too. If you don’t feel safe to bathe your baby, don’t bring them in.
- Use non-slip mats or non-slip mats inside and outside the shower to avoid slipping when holding your baby.
- After drying your baby, find a warm, safe place to place your baby. (You’ll also need to towel dry.)
- Use a pump bottle for soap, as it is difficult to squeeze the bottle when holding your baby.
- Use a mild soap for yourself and your baby. Your baby’s skin may be more sensitive than yours, and strong soaps may cause irritation. You’ll also want to use a cleanser that won’t sting even if it gets in your baby’s eyes.
- Make sure the water temperature is safe. The water temperature should not be too hot or too cold for your child. The ideal temperature is between 90 and 100 degrees.
- Use a moderate stream of water (instead of a stronger, more forceful spray) and keep the shower gentle and your baby relaxed.
- Never leave your baby unattended. If you need to go outside, take your baby with you, even if they are old enough to sit or stand on their own.