Information Station - Babies do not require a bath everyday…every other day is fine.
- Clean face, neck and diaper area everyday.
- A sponge bath is given until the umbilical cord falls off (usually within the first two weeks of life).
- Always check the temperature of the bath water! The temperature should be approximately 100° F.
- To give a sponge bath:
- Gather all supplies needed prior to starting:
- Washcloths (I use 2: one for washing with soap and the other for rinsing with plain water.)
- Mild baby soap
Diba's Tip: I love Earth Mama Angel Baby's Angel Baby Shampoo & Body Wash.
- Baby shampoo
- Towel
- Warm water
- Basin or other container to place warm water in (optional).
- Gather all supplies needed prior to starting:
- Clean the face with plain water (do not use soap on your baby’s face).
- Make sure to clean face with clean washcloth to prevent contamination of face with stool.
- A good rule of thumb is to clean the face first with plain water, then add soap to your washcloth and clean arms, chest, back, legs, and finally the diaper area. Rinse the second washcloth with plain water and remove the soap from baby’s arms, chest, back, legs, and finally the diaper area. Next dry your baby with a clean towel. Once baby is dry, wash baby’s hair under the sink with warm running water and shampoo. Be sure to rinse baby’s hair well and towel dry.
- Be sure to avoid soaking the umbilical cord when giving a sponge bath.
- Be sure to avoid getting baby shampoo into your baby’s eyes.
- Once the umbilical cord has fallen off, you can give your baby a tub bath.
- Be sure never to leave baby unattended in the bath.
