Your newborn's skin is soft and delicate. As a result, special attention should be given to their skin care. With the amount of clean up from frequent diaper changes, as well as wiping of the mouth/nose after feedings, sponge baths are more than sufficient to keep your little one clean for the first couple weeks of life. When doing so, start by making sure the temperature of the water is not too hot, and only use gentle, fragrance-free, naturally scented and hypo-allergenic products. Your baby’s bath products should be free of perfumes and dyes, which could irritate your newborn’s skin. A few brands that we we love are Mustela, Tubby Todd, and The Honest Co.
Contrary to popular belief, most babies do not require a bath every single day. They generally only need to be bathed two or three times a week; however, some parents may choose to bathe their newborn every other day. To prevent infection, bathing in a tub of water should not be done until the baby's umbilical cord falls off and a baby boy's circumcision heals. Make these bath times enjoyable and remember they can be given at any time of the day. Bathing before a feeding is often beneficial as it helps awaken your newborn and prepares them to feed. Many parents also prefer to bathe their baby in the evening as part of a bedtime routine. This works well, especially if bath time is relaxing and soothing for your baby.
It is also normal for babies to have rashes, so don’t be too concerned if you see some on your baby’s skin. These tend to come and go frequently. One of the most common experiences for a newborn’s skin are acne-like eruptions that often heal on their own after a week or two. Using proper skin care when bathing your newborn will help maintain the health and texture of your baby's skin. It will also provide a pleasant bonding experience for both your baby and you!
