Baby bath time, whether for newborns and toddlers, is the perfect time to connect and bond with your little one. By establishing a fun and bonding bath time ritual that helps your baby or toddler feel comfortable and relaxed, you can avoid potential tears and tantrums.
Bath time is also a wonderful opportunity to teach your child about cleanliness and self-care.
Having an organised bath time setup from the get-go will help the process of bathing your infant become easier. Here are some things to consider.
Safety is of top priority when it comes to your baby or toddler’s bath time. Here are a few essential guidelines.
Fill the bathtub with a few inches of warm water and ensure the water is comfortably warm (around 37 degrees Celsius)
Undress your baby or toddler and gently lay them on a towel on a flat surface
Use a clean, soft washcloth or flannel to gently wash their face, taking care not to get water in their eyes or ears
Gently clean the rest of their body with a washcloth or flannel, starting with their chest and working your way down to their feet. You might also wish to sing a little song or nursery rhyme as you do this, to make the experience more fun and relaxing for them. As they grow and find their voice, they can join in – and perhaps add a verse or two!
Lift them out of the tub and quickly wrap them up snuggly in a towel
Gently pat your baby dry, being careful not to rub their delicate baby skin too hard
Remember, never leave your baby or toddler alone in the bath and don’t ask a child or sibling to supervise. If you have to leave the room or take a phone call, remove them from the bath and ensure they are in a safe, warm environment.
Bathtime for newborns can be an enjoyable bonding time for both the parent and the baby. Follow these step-by-step instructions when washing your baby.
Before you begin, gather all the necessary items (such as a towel, washcloth, and mild baby soap) and have them within arm’s reach. This will help ensure a smoother bath time experience.
Fill the bathtub with a few inches of warm water (around 37 degrees Celsius). Place a non-slip mat in the tub to help prevent slips and falls.
Gently introduce your newborn to the water, always keep on hand on your baby at all times. Be sure to support their head, neck, and back. Use a damp washcloth or cotton ball to clean their eyes, starting from the inner corner and moving outward.
Allow your newborn to enjoy the warm water for a few moments. You can pour a cupful of water over their body to help keep them warm.
When it's time to get out of the bath, carefully lift your newborn out of the tub and quickly wrap them in a soft, dry towel. Be sure to dry them thoroughly, including in all the folds and creases, to protect their delicate skin from rashes.
After bath time, apply a mild, pH-neutral baby moisturiser to your newborn's skin to help keep it hydrated and healthy before putting on a clean nappy and clean clothes.
Warm pyjamas or a sleep sack will help them to stay cosy and comfortable during the night.
As your little one grows and becomes more independent, bath time may look a little different for you and your infant. Here are our top tips on bathing your toddler, from safety considerations to frequency, washing and play time.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this page is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions about the health of your baby, you should consult with a health professional.
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