One of the most enjoyable times for parent
and baby is the bath time. Giving your baby a bath provides an
opportunity for you and your baby to play and enjoy being together.
Babies do not need a full tub bath every day.
It doesn’t matter what time of day you bathe your baby. It
is preferable to bath your baby before feedings to help prevent
spitting up.
You will need the following items for baby’s
bath:
One or two towels
A small tub or basin (if you sponge bath
your baby)
Cotton balls
A washcloth
Clean diaper
A mild soap and shampoo
Begin the bath by bathing the baby’s
face in clear water. Start with the inner corner of each eye and
cleanse from the nose outward. Use a clean section of the washcloth
for each eye. Wash the entire face with clear water.
Some parents prefer to use the soft pads of
their fingertips to massage their baby with the bath water. It
can be helpful to try this to get to those tough little skin folds.
Wash the baby from the neck down and rinse with clean water.
Baby girls should have their genital area
cleaned by gently separating the labia and washing the area with
water. Always wash from front to back.
You should shampoo your baby’s hair with
clean water. Massage the scalp with mild shampoo using the pads
of your fingers. Don’t forget behind the ears! Rinse well
and towel dry. Dress your baby in warm clothes and wrap in a blanket.
If you are a Munson Healthcare patient and have a compliment,
concern, or complaint, please contact one of our Patient
Liaisons.
