How often should you bathe a baby?

What should you wash every day?

Wash your baby's face, neck, hands, bottom and genital area with warm water and cotton wool each day. This is called 'topping and tailing', a name that makes a small wash sound like a formal procedure. Use fresh cotton wool for each eye, wiping from the nose outward, and another fresh piece for the nappy area. Clean around the ears, never inside them, and dry gently, including between skin folds.13

When should the first bath happen?

For a healthy baby born at term, wait at least 24 hours after birth for the first bath. The baby should be clinically stable and able to maintain their temperature. If your baby was born early or is unwell, the care team should plan bathing around their needs rather than a routine schedule.4

How do you get ready?

Choose a warm room without draughts, and avoid bath time when your baby is hungry, tired or has just been fed. Gather cotton wool, a towel, a changing mat, a clean nappy and clean clothes before starting, which is quite a packing list for a trip to the bathroom. A baby bath or clean washing up bowl can serve as the bath.3

How to bathe your baby

1. 1Put cold water in first, then add hot water. Mix well and check with your elbow: the water should feel comfortably warm, not hot.
2. 2Clean your baby's face while holding them on your knee. Wash their hair with plain water while supporting them over the bowl, then gently dry it.
3. 3Remove the nappy and wipe away any mess. Lower your baby into the water, holding their upper arm and supporting their head and shoulders.
4. 4Gently swish water over your baby, keeping their head clear of the water.
5. 5Lift your baby out and pat them dry, including the skin creases. Keep the umbilical cord dry, then put on a clean nappy and clothes.

Do you need soap or lotion?

Use plain water for the first four weeks. After that, introduce gentle baby washing products gradually and sparingly, choosing ones without colours or perfume and with a neutral pH. Do not routinely apply creams or lotions to newborn dry or cracked skin. Ask your baby's clinician about persistent dryness.4

Stay with your baby throughout

Never leave your baby alone around water, even for a few seconds. Stay close enough to hold them if they slip, and empty the bath when finished. Keep electrical items unplugged and sharp objects out of reach. Contact your baby's healthcare provider if you have questions about the bathing routine or bathroom safety.2