The practice of bathing babies has changed radically in the last 20 years. Even international medical organizations have joined in the discussion of this topic. Here's what we know today.
1. When can I bathe my baby for the first time?
WHO recommends bathing no earlier than 24 hours after childbirth [1]. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises to give your newborn sponge baths until the stump of the umbilical cord falls off [2]. That is no earlier than two weeks after birth. European pediatricians believe that it is not necessary to wait for the navel to heal, and they allow bathing literally from the second or third day after childbirth [3].
2. Why is it necessary to postpone the first wash for a whole day?
Even 10 years ago, it was customary to immediately wash off vernix, the newborn’s natural moisturiser. This white substance was considered contaminated or dirty. It is now clear that vernix acts as a protective layer, preventing a baby's skin from drying out and infection [3]. Therefore, it’s now considered best practice to leave it on the skin for at least 24 hours.
WHO does allow for exceptions to wash a baby six hours after birth if it’s culturally customary [1]. However, recent studies show that early bathing breaks skin-to-skin contact, which may affect the effectiveness of breastfeeding [4]. The best advice out there: if you can wait, do so.
3. How to bathe a baby before the umbilical cord falls off
According to AAP, a baby should only be wiped down with a damp sponge, wiping the face, folding behind the ears, arms, legs and (especially carefully) the buttucks and genitals. Only clean the cord if it has been contaminated with urine or feces [4].
In other countries, pediatricians believe that even the softest sponge may irritate the protective barrier of baby’s tender skin, so they recommend dipping the baby in warm water for 5-10 minutes: it is more pleasant for them, and everything unnecessary will wash off by itself.
4. Is it common to immerse the navel in water in other countries?
No. The recommended depth of water is only about 2 inches (5 cm) so baby's stomach remains above the waterline. You can gently pour water over the rest of baby’s body for their comfort [3]. If it accidentally splashes on the navel, it's okay.
5. Should I add some disinfectants or herbal soaps to the bath?
No, this is not recommended or necessary.
6. What temperature should baby’s bath be?
Water temperature should be about 98° F (37 ° С) and the air temperature should be about 75-77°F (24-25 ° С).
7. How often should babies be bathed?
American pediatricians recommend bathing no more than three times a week.
8. What soaps can I use when bathing?
In the first month of life, babies don’t really get dirty or sweaty, so water is sufficient. Poop and pee are removed immediately with wet wipes. But if it’s important for you to use soap, then choose body wash and shampoo for newborns that have a neutral pH. Other soaps could irritate your baby's skin [3].
9. Can I wash my baby's hair?
Yes, as well as the rest of the body. Either simply with water, or with a special shampoo for babies. Sometimes small scaly patches (“cradle cap”) form on the head. This can be brushed out during bath time with a soft brush. Or you can just ignore the crusties, and they will disappear [4].
10. Do I need to wrap my baby warmly after bathing?
Yes. Babies’ thermoregulation is not yet as effective as ours, and in the first 10 minutes after bathing, their temperature may drop sharply [3]. Therefore, you should either wrap the baby in a terrycloth towel or cover the baby with a blanket. You can also crawl under the covers with the baby to feed and provide skin-to-skin contact.
Photo: shutterstock
