HOW TO BATHE A NEWBORN BABY FOR THE FIRST TIME?

Parents may worry that the baby could slip from their hands into the water, swallow soap, or get water in their ears, making bath time feel like a daunting task. First of all, you should set aside these fears and simply focus on enjoying the experience by being careful and attentive.

If your newborn has no health issues and the bathing environment is well-prepared, there is no harm in giving them a bath.

Until your baby’s umbilical cord falls off — usually within the first week or ten days — following expert recommendations will ease your anxiety.

• Lay your baby on their back on a few layers of soft towels or a soft cushion. It's helpful to undress the baby completely and wrap them in a towel to make things easier.
• Start by cleaning the baby’s eyes with a cotton pad soaked in lukewarm water. Then, using a soft cloth or towel dampened with warm water, gently wipe the nose area, cheeks, forehead, and ears. Dry the face afterward with a soft towel.
• For hair cleaning, support the baby's head from the nape of the neck while they lie on their back and gently tilt the head to wet it with a bit of lukewarm water. Apply baby shampoo and massage gently, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Dry the hair with a soft towel and comb it with a baby brush or comb.
• For body cleaning, use a baby washcloth soaked in warm water and lathered with baby shampoo. Wipe the entire body and then rinse off the soap with another towel soaked in warm water. Dry the body with a separate towel.
• Clean the genital area and bottom by wiping from front to back, then dry thoroughly. Clean the legs and arms in the same manner.
• Before putting on a diaper, apply a diaper rash prevention cream.
• The umbilical cord area should be cleaned with a cotton pad soaked in rubbing alcohol (preferably isopropyl alcohol, commonly known as rubbing alcohol). This helps the cord dry faster.

Note: Make sure the room where your baby will be bathed and dressed is at an ideal temperature (24–25°C / 75–77°F).