How to baby bath and have fun
Here’s how to make bath time a relaxing and fun experience for you and your baby
Being in the water is natural for babies after having been in the womb. But in those first few weeks, you could be less than relaxed holding your slippery bub in a tub of water! Most maternity units will teach you how to hold your baby in the bath, but if you’re unsure, ask your early childhood nurse or midwife to show you.
Once you feel confident, you’ll probably both love bath time. And don’t worry – in those early few weeks your baby doesn’t need a daily bath – just giving your baby a "top and tail" (cleaning the face and bottom) should be enough.
Soothing routine
You’ll also find baths are a great way to sllthe an unsettled baby. Give your baby a bath in the evening as part of the bedtime routine. Give them a feed, a bath, dress them (for bed), then finish the feed and hopefully they’ll settle beautifully.
After a bath is also a good time to give your baby a massage – just use a plant-based oil such as jojoba or olive oil. And less is best. Baby’s skin is delicate, so dilute shampoos (even baby shampoos) and use an unperfumed wash. Tell your GP or early childhood nurse if your baby developes a rash.
Preparing the bath
Add cold water to the bath first, then hot water, and aim for a temperature of 38 degree celcius to prevent scaling your baby. Don’t only rely on a thermometer as they may be inaccurate, always place your hand and wrist into the water and learn to recognise the temperature.
It doesn’t matter what you use to bath your baby in – find what suit you. You may want to use a bath seat or bath support, but these aids are just designed to help you support bub so that you have a free hand to wash him or her. And don’t worry about bath toys in the first few months, just let your newborn lie there and relax. Young babies don’t need the extra stimulation.
Safety first
It’s nice to have a bath with your baby but you should get help the first few times and using non-slip mats both in an out of the bath. For older babies who sit up, stay within arm’s reach an never, ever leave the room. Bring everything you need into the bathroom and remember to empty the bathwater afterward. Never leave your baby alone in the bath – if the phone or doorbell rings, just ignore it.
Lifetime of fun
You can make bath time the start of a lifetime of safe fun with water. As your baby gets older, encourage him or her to play with toys. What began as a way to soothes your baby will develop into a fun fixture in the daily routine.