5 Easy Steps For Giving a Sponge Bath to a Newborn

Baby’s first bath can be nerve-wracking for new parents. Newborn babies seem so fragile that it can be scary thinking you might hurt them.

No worries: we have outlined what 5 easy steps so you can handle baby’s first bath like pro.

What You Need

  • A flat surface or changing pad
  • 2 towels
  • 1 wash cloth
  • 1 plastic bowl
  • Warm water
  • Clean diaper
  • Baby clothing
  • Infant soap | shampoo
  • 1 plastic cup

newborn sponge bath step 1

Step 1: Prepare

Spread both towels over a flat surface or changing pad. Then, undress baby while baby is lying on their back. Leave the diaper on (wash that area last). Wrap baby in one of the towels. Prepare bowl of warm water for bathing.

Step 2: Face, Neck, Arms & Legs

With a bowl of warm water and a, small amount of soap, dampen the washcloth and cleanse one area at a time. Start with the face, around the baby’s eyes, nose, ears, and chin. Then re-wet the cloth and move to the neck, arms, legs, between fingers and toes. Be sure to clean all the creases under the arms, behind the ears, around the neck, exposing only those areas that are being washed.

Step 3: Baby’s Bottom

Now it’s time to remove the diaper and wash baby’s belly, bottom, and genitals. Pat dry all areas after you clean them. Avoid getting the umbilical cord wet. Once done recover baby with the towel to keep baby warm.

Step 4: Baby’s Head & Hair

The hair comes toward the end of the bath, so baby doesn’t get cold. You can use a tiny bit of baby shampoo. Cradle the baby’s head in your hand over the bowl of warm water. Use a cup to pour water over the hair area of the head, only to rinse. Then position baby’s back on the flat surface and dry baby’s hair.

Step 4: The Private Parts

When washing girls’ genitalia, always wipe from front to back. If your baby boy is uncircumcised, leave the foreskin alone. If circumcised, don’t wash the head of the penis until it’s healed. Gently pat baby dry. Bath time is over, and your fresh little baby is ready for a clean diaper and clothes!

Some of Our Favorites

CigreenBamboo Hooded Towel

MunchkinRinse Cup

MustelaFoaming Shampoo

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