By Dr. Tara Thurston and Devon Joyce, PA
Department of Pediatrics

Bringing home a new baby is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. Many new parents wonder how often to bathe their baby and how to care for their soft, sensitive skin. The good news is that infant bathing and skincare can be easy and enjoyable by following a few simple steps.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Baby?

Newborns do not need a bath every day. Bathing your baby two or three times a week is usually enough. Too many baths can dry out a baby’s delicate skin. During the first week or two, before the umbilical cord stump falls off and heals, give your baby a sponge bath instead of a tub bath.

Steps for a Sponge Bath

• Wrap your baby in a towel and uncover only the area you are washing.
• Use a soft, damp washcloth to gently clean the face, neck, arms, and body.
• Pay close attention to skin folds around the neck, legs, and arms.
• Use plain water and a cotton ball to gently wipe each eye from the inside corner outward.
• Pat your baby dry with a soft towel afterward.

How to Give a Tub Bath

Once the umbilical cord area has healed, your baby can start taking short tub baths. Fill the baby tub with about two to three inches of warm water. The water should feel warm, not hot. The ideal temperature is between 97 and 100° F. Test it on your inner wrist or elbow before placing your baby in the tub. 

• Support your baby’s head and neck with one hand.
• Gently lower them into the water.
• Use a small amount of mild, fragrance-free baby wash or cleanser.
• Wash gently from head to toe with a soft washcloth.
• Rinse off all soap carefully.

After the bath, wrap your baby in a soft towel right away and dry them gently, especially between skin folds.

Safety Tips

To make sure your baby stays safe, gather the supplies you need before starting, never leave your baby alone in the bath, even for a moment, and keep the temperature of the room warm and comfortable (around 75° F).

Caring for Your Baby’s Skin

A baby’s skin is very sensitive, so gentle care is important. Be sure to follow these tips:

Moisturize: If your baby’s skin looks dry, use a fragrance-free moisturizer after baths to help keep moisture in the skin.

Prevent Diaper Rash: Diaper rash is common, but there are ways to help prevent it:

• Change diapers as soon as they are wet or soiled.
• Clean the diaper area gently with warm water or mild wipes.
• Let the skin dry completely before putting on a new diaper.
• Use diaper cream or petroleum jelly for protection.
• Avoid diapers that are too tight.

Common Skin Conditions

Many newborns develop harmless skin conditions that usually go away on their own.

• Baby Acne: Small red or white bumps may appear on a baby’s face. Gentle washing with warm water is usually all that is needed.
• Cradle Cap: This causes dry or greasy patches on the scalp. Washing with baby shampoo and brushing gently can help loosen flakes.
• Milia: Tiny white bumps on the face are common in newborns and usually disappear without treatment.
• Erythema toxicum:These red patches with small white bumps are also normal and will disappear on their own.

What to Avoid

To protect your baby’s skin, avoid:

• Strong, harsh soaps or heavily scented products
• Rough scrubbing during baths
• Talcum powder (it can irritate the lungs)
• Cornstarch (it can trap moisture)
• Direct sunlight for babies younger than six months

If you notice a rash, severe dryness, or other skin problems that do not improve, contact your pediatrician. They can offer you expert advice.

Bath time can become a calm and comforting routine for both you and your baby. Your gentle care and touch are two of the best ways to help your baby feel safe, clean, and loved. Be sure to enjoy precious moments like bath time when your baby is young!