When you have a new baby around, you might be unsure of the best way to do certain things. Babies are tiny and fragile, so ensuring they are bathed in the correct way with all the essentials is vital. But, finding the right items can be a challenge, especially if this is your first baby.

Luckily, it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Here, we’ll give you all you need to know about newborn bath essentials.

What is needed for a newborn bath?

When you’re preparing for a newborn baby, shopping for bathing supplies is an important step. Newborn babies are sensitive, so you need to buy items that are gentle enough for their delicate skin. Below is a checklist of essential baby bathing items:

Newborn baby bath essentials

We've put together a list of the key essentials you're going to need for your baby's first ever bath time.

When to give a newborn their first bath?

When you have a newborn baby, the nurses will most likely either give your baby their first bath at the hospital, or assist you as you give your baby their first bath.

Your baby’s umbilical cord stump needs to heal properly. So, in the first few days of your baby’s life, you should avoid submerging your newborn in water. You can start by giving them sponge baths until the umbilical stump heals.

Once you and your baby are back home, you can wait a day or two to give your baby a sponge bath. According to a statement by the American Academy of Dermatology Association, newborn babies only need to be bathed around three times a week, as long as you ensure that the diaper area is cleaned properly after each change.

How to give a newborn a sponge bath?

When you’re giving a newborn a bath, you need to be cautious and ensure that all the baby bath essentials are nearby. To give your newborn a sponge bath, follow these tips:

Step 1: Prepare the Room

Make sure the room is comfortably warm with no drafts. Babies lose heat quickly.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

Have everything ready before you begin:

Baby bathtub or bowl of water

➜ Mild baby soap

➜ Soft bath cloth or cotton wool

➜ Towels

➜ Clean clothes and diaper

Step 3: Prepare the Water

Fill the baby bathtub or bowl with lukewarm water (~37°C / 99°F).

Always test with your wrist or elbow.

Step 4: Position Your Baby

Place your baby on a flat, safe surface (e.g., a changing mat).

Wrap them in a towel to keep warm, exposing only the area you’re washing.

Step 5: Start with the Face

Dip the cloth or cotton wool in water, wring it out so it’s damp, not soaking, and gently clean your baby’s:

➜ Face

➜ Ears (outer parts only)

➜ Neck

Step 6: Clean the Rest of their Body

Add a few drops of mild baby soap to the water.

Use the bath cloth to clean:

➜ Chest and arms

➜ Legs and feet

➜ Back and bottom

Make sure to rinse off any soap with clean damp cloth sections.

What not to do when bathing a newborn?

Parenthood comes with a great amount of responsibility. It’s important that you take all the necessary precautions to keep your precious baby safe. To ensure you avoid any dangerous mistakes when you’re bathing a newborn, here’s a list of things you should not do:

1. Don’t leave the baby unattended: The best way to keep your baby safe is to have all eyes on them at every second.

2. Holding or placing the baby incorrectly: A newborn’s neck is very weak and needs assistance for head support. You need to ensure your baby has head and neck support at all times.

3. Placing your baby in the water without testing the water: Babies can easily get burnt. To avoid this, you have to test the water by using a thermometer or dipping your elbow in the water to make sure it’s not hot.

Enjoying bath time with your baby

Bathing your newborn baby doesn’t only keep them clean, but also serves as an opportunity to bond with your baby and enjoy being a parent. Now that you have the tips mentioned in this article, you can enjoy bathing your baby knowing that you have all the tools and information you need.