Let’s talk about one of the most heartwarming (and sometimes, messy!) parts of your day: baby bathtime! Just like with grownups, it might start off as something practical and necessary, but with a bit of effort, it can become a part of the day that is fun and something you all look forward to. However, whether you’re on your first baby or it’s just been a while, the idea of bathing a tiny, wriggly human can sometimes feel more than a little bit daunting.
Fear not, though! We’re here to walk you through everything you need to know to make bathtime a fun, safe, and stress-free experience for both you and your little one – even if it might take a bit of practice for the both of you. For the practical side of how to bathe your baby, check in with your midwife - they'll be able to give you a good run-through of the correct ways to hold your baby and how to wash them effectively, and answer any questions you may have as you're learning. For everything else, read on!
First Things First: When Do We Bathe Baby? And How Often?
Newborns don’t need daily baths. In fact, too-frequent baths have the potential to dry out their delicate skin. A couple of times a week is usually plenty, and sponge baths in a dedicated baby bath are perfect until their umbilical cord stump falls off and heals. Once they’re a bit older and more active, you might find daily baths become a fun part of your routine; it really depends on your baby and your family’s rhythm. So, when’s the best time for a bath? When your baby is awake, alert, and not too hungry or too full. A very common choice is an evening bath, as it can be a lovely way to wind down before bedtime, signalling to your little one that it’s almost time for sleep. Again, though, it really depends on your family’s rhythms and routines.
How Do We Get Started, Though?
As with pretty much everything baby-related, preparation is your best friend. Get everything ready before you get bubs undressed, and make sure everything you need is within reach. Being in water, even if it’s only a shallow bath, means you never want to have to turn your back or leave your baby unattended, even if it’s only for a second. If you don’t have it to hand during the bath, just skip it and try to remember next time.
So, what might you need? Let’s have a look:
- A Safe Tub: For newborns and infants, a dedicated baby bath makes life a great deal easier. They’re designed to provide support and keep your little one secure. There are a few different styles available, but best of all is the way they can be used either in your existing bath, or if your home doesn’t have its own bath, they can still sit on the bathroom floor, in the shower, or anywhere else you need them. Have a hunt around and see what’s available that will suit your circumstances!
- Warm Water (and a Thermometer): The ideal water temperature for a baby’s bath is around 37-38°C, which feels comfortably warm, not hot, to your inner wrist or elbow. A bath thermometer is a brilliant little tool to ensure it’s just right every time. You can readily grab some that are specifically designed for baby baths and make it very clear whether the water is in the right range or not.
- Soft, Clean Towels: Have at least two soft, hooded towels ready. Hooded towels are fantastic for keeping their tiny heads warm after the bath, and make it much easier to gently pat them dry. Why two? As with all things to do with our dear wee ones, one is never enough, and having a spare ready to go may well end up being needed.
- Cloths/Sponges: To gently get your baby nice and clean. In general, cleansers aren’t needed, especially for newborns, as they don’t really get dirty or sweat. A lot of what you’ll be cleaning is milk or fluff from their clothing, and luckily, they’re pretty easy to shift with clean water and a soft, clean cloth. Occasionally dipping the cloth in warm water then placing it on their chest can keep them warm and feeling secure while they enjoy being surrounded by water!
- Nappy and Clean Clothes: Have these nicely laid out and ready to go! Just keep them away from potential splashes.
- Moisturiser/Baby Lotion: To lock in moisture after the bath. A fantastic baby moisturiser is Haakaa’s Restore & Adore Balm. Use it in conjunction with the Oatmeal Bath Milk to help with dry skin. Alternatively, give our Sweet Dreams Balm a go to help settle baby before bed!
- Everything Else: Consider a washcloth, a soft brush for their hair, and maybe a fun bath toy or two for older babies.
Are There Any Tips to Make Things Easier?
- Crying Baby: If bubs gets fussy during bathtime, try a different time of day. Ensure the room is warm, and your touch is gentle and reassuring. It’s easy to forget that for babies, everything is a new experience, and it can take a while for them to get used to it all.
- Make it Fun: As your baby gets older, introduce a few simple bath toys. Floating animals or stacking cups can add an element of play. Haakaa’s Alien Explorer Bath Toys are designed to make bathtime super fun for slightly older babies while boosting their imaginations!
- Safety First: Never, ever leave your baby unattended in the bath, not even for a second. If you need to step away, wrap your baby in a towel and take them with you.
- Keep it Short & Sweet: Especially for newborns, baths don’t need to be long. A quick 5-10 minute wash is usually enough.
- Listen to Your Baby: Every baby is different! Some love bathtime, others need a bit more convincing. Keep an eye on your baby’s cues and adjust your routine accordingly.
Bathtime is more than just getting clean; it’s a sensory experience and a chance for skin-to-skin contact and bonding time. With a bit of preparation and a lot of love, you’ll be a bathtime pro in no time!