How to Clean and Bathe a Newborn Baby

You've waited and waited for the arrival of your new baby. Bringing home that bundle of love is exciting and sometimes overwhelming. Time to bathe your child, you know that the shower is out of the question but what is the best way to bathe your little person. Your doctor may recommend that you bathe your baby once the umbilical cord has dried off completely and fallen off. Please ask your Pediatrician when you can start to bathe your baby.

Your baby is old enough to take their first bath. Start by getting a baby bathtub. The baby may use it just for a few months, but it is well worth the money. The bathtub will not only keep baby from sliding but will save you from bending over and straining your back. Once you have the right bathtub make sure you have all the supplies you will need like shampoo, washcloths, cotton balls, baby towel, etc at arm's reach. Next make sure that the room you bathe your baby is warm, no drafts or air-conditioning. They get cold very fast and you will have a purple lipped shivering crying baby.

Fill the bath tub no more than half way. Remember when you place your baby their weight will increase the volume of the bath water. Always test the water, the wrist test is a good indicator. Place the bottom of your wrist in the water. If it feels hot remove some of the water and add lukewarm water. The water should never be hot or cold, simply warm.

Once you have the water just right it is time to undress your baby. Ease your baby into the water, and start by wetting one of your wash clothes and laying it over the baby's private parts. If you have a baby boy not only will it keep him warmer but will prevent any peeing in your face. Wash your baby's hair with baby shampoo. Products are now on the market that can be used to wash your baby from head to toe. Use a wash cloth to clean the baby's body. Carefully turn the baby to its side always holding him and clean their back, then their bottom. Now you are done, grab the towel and dry them off completely.