Hi there, 

Here is your baby bath time guide! In this guide, we share with you: 

• How to bathe baby in 8 simple steps!
• A Parent's Guide to Baby Bath Basics
• 5 Tips to Keep your Baby's Skin Healthy & Soft
• Top Skincare Brands you Must Know 
• Top 10 Baby Bath Products you Must Have (Featuring our Bestsellers!)
• How to Take Care of Newborn Skin Properly

Fun Fact: Did you know that Newborn Skin Soaks Up a Calming Touch?

Like cuddling, a massage is a way to convey your love and affection for your baby. Research shows that a baby's survival depends on being touched by others -- as touch triggers hormones, boosts immunity and helps fight disease. Also, massaged babies are calmer,sleep better and cry less -- every parent's dream! 

HOW TO BATHE BABY IN 8 SIMPLE STEPS!

Here's how to do it and what you'll need to make baby-bathing easy. With any luck, bath time will become one of the most enjoyable parts of your days together:

 

1. Gather all necessary bath supplies, lay out a towel, a clean diaper, and clothes. Make sure the room is comfortably warm so your baby doesn't get chilled.

2. Fill the tub with about 3 inches of water that feels warm but not hot to the inside of your wrist – about 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) or a few degrees warmer.

3. Bring your baby to the bath area and undress her completely.

4. Gradually slip your baby into the tub feet first, using one hand to support her neck and head. Pour cupfuls of bath water over her regularly during the bath so she doesn't get cold.

5. Use mild soap sparingly (too much dries out your baby's skin). Wash her with your hand or a washcloth from top to bottom, front and back. Start by washing her scalp with a wet, soapy cloth. Rinse the soap from the cloth and use it to gently clean her eyes and face. If dried mucus has collected in the corner of your baby's nostrils or eyes, dab it several times with a small section of a moistened washcloth to soften it before you wipe it out. As for your baby's genitals, a routine washing is all that's needed.

6. Rinse your baby thoroughly with cupfuls of clean water, and wipe her with a clean washcloth.

7. Wrap your baby in a hooded towel and pat her dry. If her skin is dry, or if she has a bit of diaper rash, you may want to apply a mild lotion after her bath.

8. End off with a smoothing massage *optional

 

 

A PARENT'S GUIDE TO BABY BATH BASICS

Wondering how to do a baby bath? Here's a step by step guide to help you master the basics. 

 

How often does my newborn need a bath?
There's no need to give your newborn a bath every day. In fact, bathing your baby more than several times a week can dry out his or her skin. If you're quick with clean diapers and burp cloths, you're already cleaning the parts that really need attention — the face, neck and diaper area.

 

Where to bathe my baby?
It makes sense to use the kitchen sink or a small plastic baby tub. A standard bathtub requires you to kneel or lean awkwardly over your baby and gives you less control over his movements.

 

Is it better to bathe my baby in the morning or at night?
That's up to you. Choose a time when you're not rushed or likely to be interrupted. Some parents opt for morning baths, when their babies are alert and ready to enjoy the experience. Others prefer to make baby baths part of a calming bedtime ritual. If you bathe your baby after a feeding, consider waiting for your baby's tummy to settle a bit first.

 

Is a sponge bath good enough?

A baby bath doesn't necessarily need to be done in a tub of water. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends sponge baths until the umbilical cord stump falls off — which might take up to three weeks. If you'd like to give your baby a sponge bath, you'll need:

• A warm place with a flat surface. A bathroom or kitchen counter, changing table, or firm bed will work. Even a blanket or towel on the floor is OK if it's warm enough.
• A soft blanket, towel or changing pad. Spread it out for your baby to lie on.
• A free hand. Always keep one hand on your baby. On a changing table, use the safety strap as well.
• A sink or shallow plastic basin to hold the water. Run warm water into the basin or sink. Check the water temperature with your hand to make sure it's not too hot.
• Essential supplies. Gather a washcloth, a towel — preferably with a built-in hood — cotton balls, mild baby shampoo, mild moisturizing soap, baby wipes, a clean diaper and a change of clothes.

When you're ready to begin the sponge bath, undress your baby and wrap him or her in a towel. Lay your baby on his or her back on the blanket, towel or pad you've prepared. Wet the washcloth, wring out excess water and wipe your baby's face. There's no need to use soap. Use a damp cotton ball or clean cotton cloth to wipe each eyelid, from the inside to the outside corner.

When you clean your baby's body, plain water is usually OK. If your baby is smelly or dirty, use a mild moisturizing soap. Pay special attention to creases under the arms, behind the ears, around the neck and in the diaper area. Also wash between your baby's fingers and toes. To keep your baby warm, expose only the parts you're washing.

 

What about water temperature?
Warm water is best. To prevent scalding, set the thermostat on your water heater to below 120 F (49 C). Always check the water temperature with your hand before bathing your baby. Aim for bath water around 100 F (38 C). Be sure the room is comfortably warm, too. A wet baby can be easily chilled.

 

What's the best way to hold my newborn in the tub?
A secure hold will help your baby feel comfortable — and stay safe — in the tub. Use one of your hands to support your baby's head and the other to hold and guide your baby's body into the water, feet first. Support your baby's head and torso with your arm and hand. Wrap your arm under your baby's back, grasping your baby firmly under the armpit. When you clean your baby's back and buttocks, lean him or her forward on your arm. Continue to grasp your baby under the armpit.

 

What should I wash first?
Most parents start with the baby's face and move on to dirtier parts of the body. Wash inside skin folds, and rinse the genitals carefully.

 

Should I wash my newborn's hair?
Wash your newborn's hair if it seems dirty or your baby develops cradle cap — a common condition characterized by scaly patches on the scalp. Supporting your baby's head and shoulders with your free hand, gently massage a drop of mild baby shampoo into your baby's scalp. Rinse the shampoo with a damp washcloth or directly under the faucet, cupping one hand across your baby's forehead to keep suds out of his or her eyes.

 

Do I need a special type of soap? 
There's no need to use special soap for a baby bath. In fact, plain water is fine for newborns. When needed, use a mild moisturizing soap. Avoid bubble bath and scented soaps.

 

Will lotion after a baby bath help prevent rashes? 
Most newborns don't need lotion after a bath. The best way to prevent rashes is to dry inside your baby's folds of skin after each bath. If you choose to use lotion, pick one that's hypoallergenic.

 

What type of baby tub is best? 
Many parents choose free-standing plastic tubs specifically designed for newborns. Others opt for plastic basins or inflatable tubs that fit inside the bathtub. Lined with a towel or rubber mat, the kitchen or bathroom sink might be another option. Remember, though, safety is the most important consideration — not necessarily the type of tub. Gather the same supplies you'd use for a sponge bath and a cup of rinsing water ahead of time so that you can keep one hand on the baby at all times. Never leave your baby alone in the water

 

How much water should I put in the tub? 
The ideal amount of water for a baby bath is debatable. A common recommendation is 2 to 3 inches (about 5 to 8 centimeters) of warm water. To keep your baby warm, you can pour warm water over his or her body throughout the bath. Some research suggests that using slightly more water — enough to cover a baby's shoulders — can be calming and help reduce heat loss. With any amount of water, be sure to hold your baby securely during the bath

 

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BABY'S SKIN HEALTHY & SOFT

With newborn skin care, the adage is "less is more". Here are tips to help protect your baby from developing allergies and rashes:

1. Resist the urge to bathe your baby frequently - Too frequent bathing (>3 times/week during first year) removes the natural oils that protect baby's skin. That may leave baby's skin vulnerable and dry and might also aggravate eczema.
2. Don't use scented baby products in the early months. This can irritate your baby's delicate skin. Always go for scent-free and chemical-free products. 
3. Block the Sun - Be sure to apply sunscreen for your child when outdoors and reapply every 2 hours or so. Try to keep babies younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight as much as possible. 
4. Moisturize Frequently - Especially for dry or eczema prone skin.
5. Wash baby's clothing before it's worn - To prevent any sensitive reaction / rashes. We recommend that you use hypoallergenic detergents like Earth Friendly's ECOS. Also, wash baby clothes, bedding and blankets separately from the family's laundry.

TOP 10 SKINCARE BRANDS YOU MUST KNOW:

1. Mustela 
   One of the world's leading skincare brands since 1950, Mustela offers the best formulated skincare for delicate skin. Developed by healthcare professionals, Mustela products are largely made from natural origin and are 100% Made in France. Featuring products dedicated to pregnancy and after-birth, it is no wonder why Mustela is one of mom's favourite brands. We recommend the bestselling Gentle Cleansing Gel with Avocado to gently cleanse your baby skin. 
   
   
2. California Baby 
   Recommended by pediatricians and dermotogists worldwide, California Baby has purity and sustainability over its products. They pride on calmer, happier babies with soft radiant skin. We recommend the bestselling Calendula Cream to help nourish dry and ezcema-prone skin. Quality-assured.
   
   
3. Four Cow Farm 
   Traditionally crafted and 100% natural, Four Cow Farm are made from the finest ingredients. Using safe food-grade preservatives and emulsifiers, their creams and balms are perfect in giving babies that healthy glow. Give the bestselling baby wash a try! It's made from premium cold-pressed extra virgin oil, the finest oil for cleansing. 
   
   
4. Babyganics 
   Pediatrician & dermatologist tested, Babyganics specializes in quality products for not just baby skincare, but for household solutions. Made with natural plant ingredients, Babyganics is hypoallergenic and non-allergenic - safe for every baby and home! We recommend getting their bestselling natural DEET free insect repellent made from natural essential oils to keep all bugs at bay.
   
   
5. GAIA Natural Baby 
   GAIA features a multi-award winning line of pure, natural and organic skincare made in Australia. Tailored for sensitive skin, GAIA combines natural and certified oils that are gentle, moisturizing and soothing. Be sure to give their Organic Baby Powder a try! It has a fine and smooth texture that helps baby removes excess moisture from his/her bottom, helping to prevent diaper rash! 
   
   
6. Original Sprout
7. Weleda
8. Aleva Naturals
9. Pout Care
10. Green People
11. Australian Olive Oil

TOP 10 BABY BATH PRODUCTS YOU MUST HAVE (FEATURING OUR BESTSELLERS!)

1.  California Baby Calendula Shampoo & Body Wash
2. Mustela Clean & Hydrate Combo Pack
3. Four Cow Farm Baby Lotion 485ml
4. GAIA Baby Massage Oil 125ml 
5. Original Sprout Miracle Detangler 4oz
6. Babyganics Bubble Bath & Chamomile Verbena 20oz

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR NEWBORN SKIN PROPERLY (VIDEO)

Any questions on Baby Bath Time, let us know at orders@agapebabies.com !