Bathing a newborn can be a bit slippery, but there’s no need to worry. This guide will help you navigate your baby’s first bath and make the experience enjoyable.

You’ve gathered all the necessary baby gear, set up the nursery, and brought your little one home. Yet, when it’s time for that first bath, you might find yourself filled with questions. When is it appropriate to bathe a newborn? How often should you bathe them? And what temperature should the bath water be? Don’t fret—this guide has you covered.

When to Give Your Baby Their First Bath

In the past, hospitals would often bathe newborns shortly after birth, but practices have changed. Now, it’s generally recommended to wait a few hours—ideally at least 24 hours—before the first bath. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that in certain cases, such as exposure to pathogens during birth, a bath may need to be given sooner.

Delaying the initial bath can provide physical and emotional benefits. According to Dr. Katherine Williamson from Children’s Hospital of Orange County, waiting helps prevent cold stress in newborns. “Cold stress can lead to drops in blood sugar,” she explains. Babies are also born with a protective layer called vernix caseosa, which helps regulate their temperature and protect against infections. Moreover, research has shown that delaying the first bath can improve breastfeeding success rates by allowing for more skin-to-skin contact.

Baby’s First Bath at Home

Once you’re home, there’s no set timeline for the first bath. You should avoid submerging your baby in water until the umbilical cord stump has fallen off and healed completely. For circumcised boys, sponge baths should continue until healing is complete.

There are no strict rules regarding the timing of baths. Experts suggest that it’s perfectly fine to wait a few days before giving your baby their first bath. “Many families are eager to bathe their newborn, but there’s no rush,” says Dr. Justin Smith from Cook Children’s Medical Center.

How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn?

Bathing your newborn one to three times a week is typically sufficient, according to the AAP. This frequency might even last for the entire first year. Overbathing can lead to dry skin since newborns don’t get very dirty. For example, one mother waited weeks to give her daughter a bath at home and found she remained clean and pleasant-smelling. Regular cleaning of the diaper area and the folds of skin is usually all that’s needed.

Some parents prefer to incorporate baths into a bedtime routine, which can help soothe fussy babies and promote healthy sleep.

How to Bathe a Newborn

Bathing a newborn may seem daunting, but with some preparation, it can be a joyful experience. Yes, your baby might cry, but that’s normal. “Watching a nurse bathe my daughter in the hospital made me realize we wouldn’t break her,” recalls one mom.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for bathing your newborn:

Sponge Bath for Newborns

For the first week after birth, give your baby a gentle sponge bath.

Step 1: Gather Supplies
Make sure you have everything you need within arm’s reach—this includes a dry towel, clean diaper, washcloths, and baby soap. Never leave your baby unattended in the bath.

Step 2: Choose a Location
Select a warm area to give the bath. While not necessary, baby bathtubs are recommended for convenience. Ensure the space is comfortable for you to kneel or stand while keeping one hand on the baby at all times.

Step 3: Clean Small Areas
Remove your baby’s clothes and diaper, covering them with a towel. Use a washcloth dipped in warm water to gently clean the baby, focusing on the diaper area and skin folds.

Full Bath for Newborns

Once the umbilical cord stump has healed, you can begin giving full baths.

Step 1: Prepare the Bath
Fill the baby bathtub or sink with a few inches of warm water—about 2 to 3 inches. Ensure the bath temperature is between 90 to 100°F, never exceeding 120°F. Always support your baby’s head while gently lowering them into the water.

Step 2: Keep Baby Covered
To prevent heat loss, keep your baby covered with a warm washcloth while bathing. “I always used warm washcloths to keep my babies comfortable,” says one mom.

Step 3: Clean Thoroughly
Using a soft washcloth, wipe your baby all over, including areas that often get missed like underarms and behind the ears. It’s not always necessary to use soap; warm water often suffices. If you do use soap, choose a natural, fragrance-free option. Be sure to cup your hand over your baby’s forehead while rinsing to avoid soap in their eyes.

Step 4: Skip Lotions and Powders
After the bath, there’s no need for lotions. Newborns naturally have soft skin. If you notice dry patches, consider using Vaseline or Aquaphor. Avoid baby powder, as it can be harmful if inhaled.

While it may seem overwhelming to give your baby their first bath, soon it will feel second nature. If your baby starts to enjoy bath time, let them splash around a bit longer—it can help them become more comfortable in the water. Before you know it, they’ll be sitting up in the tub, playing with toys, and having a blast!