You are now the proud parent of a brand new, squirmy baby that poops up their back and has very little neck and head control. Bathing a baby with such characteristics feels really daunting for some new parents. We’re here to help you break down the basics of Baby Bathing 101, so that bath time can be done with ease.

There are two types of bathing to consider: Sponge bathing and Submersion bathing.

Sponge Bathing: this type of bathing is used when we are waiting for the umbilical stump to heal and fall off. We don’t want to submerge the baby until this area of the body is healed.

A newborn typically doesn’t need to be bathed often, some providers suggest 2-3 times a week at most.

To set yourself up for success with this type of bathing, gather all of your supplies prior to starting. You’ll need a towel, 2 small washcloths, a tiny basin/bowl for water (one with soap, one without), soap, clean clothes, and a diaper.

Our postpartum doulas like to keep babies mostly swaddled either on our laps or on a flat surface, we work our way from the top of the head down to the bottom of the baby. We wait to clean their bottoms and private areas for last. Make sure you wipe gently in all those little nooks and crannies. Babies can get yeast buildup in those delightful little fat rolls on their body. We promptly go back over the baby with the clean water without soap, making sure to wipe down all possible residual soap. Dry baby off, use lotion if you’d like, diaper, and clothe your baby.

Submersion Bathing: this type of bathing is when you get to use that fun baby bath you were gifted. Or if you’re old fashioned like us, we are happy to use a nice clean kitchen sink to get the job done!

If using a baby bath, make sure the bath is on a safe surface and the temperature of the water isn’t too hot for your newborn. There’s no need to fill the basin with a lot of water, think hip depth to start. Your baby may not be entirely thrilled to be submerged in water as they like to stay cozy and warm more than anything. Start at the top of your baby’s head and work your way down, making sure to gently wipe the eye areas and all of the other body parts mentioned above in Sponge bathing. Have your clean items nearby so that transitioning out of the bath will make for a more content baby. Pat your baby dry with a towel, and keep this process fun and connected.

Tips and tricks: just like a massage therapist never takes their hands off of their clients, a parent should try to instill the same level of touch and connection. Bathing is an excellent time for bonding- you can sing songs or speak softly about what you’re doing. Water is a type of sensory exposure that babies may enjoy or may not. Take your time and know that this process will get easier. It goes without saying, but never ever leave your baby unattended in the bath water. Bathing your baby when they are content, i.e., fed and not uncomfortable can make this process more enjoyable for all involved.

Some things to consider when giving your baby their first bath: It’s encouraged to “Wait for 8(hours),” prior to bathing your baby. Babies are born with a vernix on their skin, and this protective barrier should not be wiped off, rather wiped into baby's skin. Allowing the baby to wait the minimum of 8 hours prior to bathing allows them to adjust to the temperature of the outside world and facilitates better bonding with parents and improves feeding relationships. Bathing your baby for the first few times might feel like a daunting task, but it’s okay to take your time as babies are relatively clean to begin with.