Bath time can be a memorable experience for new parents and their babies. It’s a bonding activity you and your little one can enjoy, but it also plays a significant role in protecting your newborn's skin. Baths protect babies from germs and bacteria while keeping their skin soft and supple. If you are a new parent, bath time for babies may be intimidating at first, but you will eventually get the hang of it, and we’re here to help.
How Often Does Your Baby Need a Bath?
How often you bathe your baby depends on his age.
- Anywhere between 1 and 3 months, bathe them once or twice a week.
- If your baby is between 3 to 6 months, bathe them roughly three times a week. Afterward, use a gentle lotion to lock in hydration. Some recommend using a fragrance-free lotion.
- Between 6 to 12 months, increase the bath time based on your baby’s activity level.
In general, babies do not require a daily bath, even if they are extremely mobile. Their skin is delicate and daily bathing can cause dryness. What is most important is to ensure their face, neck, armpits, and groin are clean using a damp washcloth. Also make sure their diaper area is routinely clean, using specially formulated baby care products, such as the HoneyB Diaper Rash Cream + Zinc.
How to Bathe a Baby?
The easiest way to give your baby a bath is to come up with a plan. Frequency, where you will bathe them, and what products and tools to use are all part of the process.
You will need:
- Soft towels
- Washcloth
- Basin
- Baby soap/wash
- Baby shampoo
If your baby is between 1-3 months, you can bathe them in the bathtub or in the sink, holding them gently but firmly enough to prevent slipping. All you will need is a washcloth and a gentle baby soap.
Between 3-6 months, clean them with a washcloth and a restorative baby wash. Once dry, follow up with an all-natural baby lotion if you feel it’s necessary.
Instead of a lotion, you can also use soothing baby oil after toweling your baby dry.
Between 6-12 months, add a baby basin, as he will be sitting up at this time.
If your baby finds himself in a mess from head to toe, don’t forget to apply a small amount of baby shampoo to your baby’s hair when needed. Rinse it off with warm water, using only your hands.
When to Use Diaper Rash?
Diaper rash is a common condition that occurs on the baby’s bottom. It looks like patches of irritated skin and may be caused by wet diapers, skin sensitivity, chafing, or infrequently changing diapers. You can help prevent this during baby bath time. After toweling them dry, apply a nourishing baby cream and apply a fresh diaper.
For most parents, there is a learning curve to giving your baby his first few baths, which doesn’t get easier as your baby ages and changes must be made. Use this guide to simplify the process and make it enjoyable for you and your little one.
