Giving a newborn a bath isn't just about keeping them clean—it's also a special bonding moment. For us parents, it can feel a little scary at first, especially when baby is tiny and slippery.

But with the right steps and a calm approach, bath time can become one of the most soothing parts of the day for both baby and us.

How often should we bathe baby?

In the first few weeks, babies don't need daily baths. Two to three times a week is usually enough. On the other days, we can gently wipe their face, neck, hands, and diaper area with a warm damp cloth. Too much bathing may dry out their delicate skin, so keeping it simple is often best.

Prepare everything in advance

Before we even pick up the baby, it's important to have all our supplies ready. This keeps things smooth and safe. Here's what we'll need:

• A small baby bathtub or basin

• A soft towel

• Baby-safe washcloth

• Gentle baby soap or cleanser (optional)

• Clean diaper and clothes

• Cup for rinsing

Always place everything within arm's reach, so we can keep one hand on baby at all times.

Check the water temperature

The bathwater should be warm, not hot. A good way to test is by dipping our wrist or elbow into the water—it should feel comfortable, not too warm. Around 37°C (98.6°F) is perfect. We only need about 5 to 8 centimeters of water in the tub for a newborn.

Start with a sponge bath

Until the baby's umbilical cord stump falls off (usually within 1–2 weeks), we should stick with sponge baths. Lay the baby on a clean, soft surface, wrap them in a towel, and uncover one part at a time while cleaning gently with a warm washcloth. Pay special attention to creases—like under the neck, behind the ears, and around the diaper area.

Moving to tub baths

Once the cord stump has healed, we can switch to tub baths. Hold the baby firmly with one hand supporting the head and neck. Slowly lower them into the water feet first. Use our other hand to gently wash with a soft cloth. Clean the face first with plain water, then move to the rest of the body using a little baby soap if needed.

Keep baby warm

Babies can get cold quickly, so we should keep the room warm and pour water gently over their body to keep them comfortable. Bath time doesn't need to be long—5 to 10 minutes is just right. Once we're done, wrap the baby in a soft towel immediately and gently pat them dry.

Moisturize and dress

After the bath, some babies benefit from a mild, fragrance-free baby lotion to prevent dryness. Then it's time for a clean diaper and comfy clothes. Bath time often relaxes babies, so it's a great time to follow up with a cuddle or nap.

Stay calm and confident

If we're nervous, babies can sense it. Try to stay relaxed, smile, and speak gently throughout the bath. Over time, both we and the baby will feel more comfortable. And remember—it's okay if the first few baths don't go perfectly. Like everything in parenting, we get better with practice.

Let's enjoy this special time

Bathing a newborn can feel like a big task, but it's also a chance to connect, comfort, and care in the gentlest way. With a little preparation and patience, we can make it a peaceful, happy part of our baby's routine.

Lykkers, how did your first baby bath go? If you've already been through it, what tip made it easier? And if you're just getting ready—don't worry, you've got this!