How to Bathe a Newborn at Home: A Complete Guide

Bathing a newborn for the first time can feel intimidating, but with the right setup and gentle approach, it becomes a soothing experience for both you and your baby. Here's everything you need to know about how to bathe your newborn at home safely and confidently.

📆 When Can You Start Bathing a Newborn?

You can begin giving your baby sponge baths right after birth, but wait until the umbilical cord stump falls off (usually within the first 1–2 weeks) before giving full baths in a tub or sink.

🧴 What You Need to Bathe a Newborn at Home

Prepare everything in advance to make the bath smooth and safe:

• A baby bathtub or a clean sink

• Soft washcloths

• Mild, fragrance-free baby soap or shampoo (optional)

• A rinsing cup or baby shower cap (try the Shower Cap to protect baby’s eyes from water)

• A soft baby towel, like our cozy Bear Baby Bath Towel

• Clean diaper and clothes

• Optional: baby lotion and gentle baby brush

🧼 How to Bathe a Newborn Step-by-Step

1. Choose a Warm, Draft-Free Room
Babies can get cold quickly. Make sure the room is comfortably warm before undressing your baby.

2. Fill the Bath with Warm Water
Use just 2–3 inches of warm water (around 37°C or 98.6°F). Always test the water with your wrist or elbow.

3. Undress and Support Baby
Gently undress your baby, cradling their head and neck with one hand. Use your other hand to gently lower them into the water, feet first.

4. Clean from Top to Bottom
Start with your baby’s face using only water and a soft washcloth. Then wash the rest of their body with mild baby soap.

👉 Tip: Use a shower cap like this one to avoid water and soap getting into your baby’s eyes while rinsing.

5. Rinse Gently
Use a cup or your hand to pour water gently over their body. Be sure to rinse off all soap, especially in skin folds.

6. Lift and Wrap in a Towel
Lift your baby out carefully and wrap them immediately in a soft towel — like our Bear Baby Bath Towel with a hood to keep them extra cozy.

7. Pat Dry and Moisturize
Pat (don’t rub) your baby’s skin dry. Apply gentle baby lotion if needed, and dress them warmly.

🗓️ How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn?

You don’t need to bathe your newborn daily. 2–3 times per week is enough. Too many baths can dry out their sensitive skin. In between, clean the diaper area and skin folds during diaper changes.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Bathing your newborn at home is a wonderful way to bond — it doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With a calm approach and the right tools, you’ll turn bath time into a gentle, joyful routine.

Looking for newborn essentials? Explore our Baby Bath Collection to make bath time simple and soothing.