Baby Care and Grooming

How Often Do I Give My Baby a Bath?

Cleanliness and good hygiene are important to the health of every infant. Keeping the face, hands and diaper region clean is very important. Babies should only be given sponge baths until their circumcision and/or umbilical cord areas are completely healed.

How Do I Bathe my Baby?

• Prior to bathing an infant, place everything that you will need in within easy access.
• Infants can be bathed in a sink or in a plastic infant tub.
• Pay particular attention to water temperature because an infant’s skin is very sensitive. Test the temperature of the bath water with your elbow instead of your hand. (The adult hand is tougher and more tolerant to hot temperatures.)
• Only fill the tub or sink with an inch or two of water, and always keep a firm grip on the infant. Ignore any diversions and never leave the infant alone in water, no matter how shallow.
• You can shampoo an infant’s head with a mild shampoo. If the infant has cradle cap, use a special shampoo prescribed by the pediatrician.
• Only mild soap should be used on an infant’s skin. An infant's skin is delicate and is susceptible to dry skin and rashes.
• Pat the infant dry and avoid rubbing the skin. Be certain all areas on the baby’s body are dry, especially folds in the skin.

How To Trim a Baby’s Nails?

The nails of an infant are very thin. However, they can be very sharp. It is best to trim an infant’s nails when they are sleeping. You should use blunt-tipped nail scissors and take your time.

How to Protect a Baby’s Skin?

Infants are susceptible to rashes. You should only outfit an infant in soft, smooth clothing. Wash an infant’s clothing and bedding in mild detergent and rinse completely. Traces of detergent can cause skin irritation.

Infants should be kept out of the sun as much as possible. A hat can help protect an infant’s skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Once an infant has reached their six-month birthday, a light application of a child’s sunscreen can be used for protection.

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