Tub time
Written by Sarah Granger on Feb 1, 2010
A slippery baby can be downright terrifying. Learn the tools of the bath trade with some helpful advice from a seasoned mom. It will be a while before your new little one gets down and dirty on the playground, but he’ll be getting messy by way of spit-up and dirty diapers from the get-go, so knowing how to bathe a baby is a necessary skill for new parents. Fortunately, it’s not as intimidating (or challenging) as you might think, and it starts off in the simplest way possible …
Sponge baths
Until your tiny tot’s umbilical cord stump falls off—usually between 10 and 21 days—all he needs is a gentle cleansing with a washcloth. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Gather your supplies before you get started. For a sponge bath, you’ll need a basin of warm water, a washcloth and a towel.
Step 2: Find your bath spot. Opt for a surface that is flat and comfortable for your little guy in a room that is warm and free of drafts. The changing table is a good choice for many moms.
Step 3: Spread out the towel and lay your baby on it. Remove his clothes and diaper, then submerge the washcloth in the warm water basin (make sure it’s not too hot or too cold) and wring it out. Gently wash your baby’s body with the cloth, remembering to wipe behind his ears and between fingers and toes.
Step 4: While you’re bathing your baby, talk soothingly to him and don’t allow him to get chilly (which is sure to cause upset). You might want to keep some body parts covered while you’re washing others.
Step 5: Once you’re done, dry him with the towel and snuggle him up in a warm, cozy outfit.
When your baby’s cord falls off, he’s ready for the big time—well, tub time, at least. Here’s what you need to know about …
Baby tub baths
Until your baby is ready to sit in the “big tub” on his own, he’ll get his cleanings in a made-for-babe tub (or the kitchen sink, for some old-fashioned folks). Once again, you’ll need to get all your supplies ahead of time—necessities include a towel, washcloth and baby wash—since leaving a baby alone in water is a huge no-no. (Scary to know, but also a real eye-opener: A child can drown in less than an inch of water in less than 60 seconds. Don’t step away!)
Step 1: Fill the tub with 2 to 3 inches of warm but not hot water—aim for about 90° F (120° F is the maximum limit). To test the water, dip your forearm or wrist in, since you’ll get a more accurate feel in these thin-skinned areas.
Step 2: Take baby’s clothes and diaper off and gently dip him in the tub feet first, using one hand to support his head and neck. Find a good position for your little one and make sure he’s comfortable and secure in the tub before beginning to wash him.
Step 3: Let the bath begin! To keep your baby warm, continually pour cupfuls of bath water over his little body.
Step 4: Gently wash your baby’s skin with a mild, baby-safe soap, softly scrubbing his scalp as well.
Step 5: Thoroughly rinse away the soap.
Step 6: When you’re finished, firmly grasp your baby to remove him from the tub, using one hand to support his head and neck and the other to support his bottom. Position your fingers around one thigh for an extra grasp.
Step 7: Wrap your baby in a hooded towel and pat him dry. Congratulations—you did it!
Bath time will undoubtedly bring a few priceless memories, so take some time to enjoy it and create experiences that both you and your baby will enjoy. It may seem a little overwhelming in the early days, but before you know it your tiny one will be splashing in the tub like an old pro—and you’ll be passing on bath time tips to your new mom friends. Leave A Comment
