Baby's bath time is a special moment, conducive to relaxation and bonding between parents and child.
However, it can also be a source of worry for new parents. How to ensure that everything goes well? What gestures should be adopted to make this ritual a pleasant and safe experience? Follow our practical tips to transform baby's bath time into a moment of gentleness and bonding.
1/ Prepare the environment
Before bathing your baby, make sure everything is ready to avoid having to look for items during the bath. Here is a list of essentials:
- A baby bathtub or an appropriate support.
- A bath thermometer to check the water temperature.
- A hypoallergenic and fragrance-free soap especially for babies. Fragrances can irritate their delicate skin.
- A soft blanket, bath cape or towel.
- Clean clothes and a diaper.
- A small soft brush for the scalp.
Place everything you need within reach to ensure optimal safety and avoid any unnecessary stress. Prepare the environment beforehand and without the baby to fully enjoy this gentle moment and never have to leave him alone.
2/ Ensure the right temperature
Fill the tub with 10 cm of water. The water temperature should be ideal for your baby's comfort. It should be between 36 °C and 37 °C. Use a thermometer to check accurately. Also make sure the room is sufficiently heated, around 22 °C.
Little tip: Test the water with your elbow if you don't have a thermometer. The water should be lukewarm, neither too hot nor too cold.
3/ Adopt a gentle routine
- Gently settle the baby: Support his head and back with your forearm and hand. Gently place him in the water, making sure his head stays out of the water.
- Wash him gently: Use a small amount of soap and clean his body starting from his face and working down to his feet. Pay particular attention to the folds (neck, armpits, thighs) to avoid irritation.
- Rinse thoroughly: Use a cup or your hand to rinse his body, making sure no water runs onto his face.
- Carefully take the baby out: Immediately wrap him in a soft towel to dry him and prevent him from getting cold.
4/ Create a Soothing Atmosphere
To make this moment even more pleasant, consider creating a calm and comforting atmosphere. Talk softly to your baby to reassure him. Play soft music or sing a lullaby. Use dim lighting to promote relaxation.
5/ Frequency and Duration of Baby's Bath
A bath every two or three days is sufficient for a newborn. However, it is important to clean their face, hands, and private parts daily.
To prevent the baby from getting cold, the bath should not exceed 5 to 10 minutes.
Baby's bath time is an important moment for their well-being and to create moments of complicity with them. Follow our practical tips to be at ease and so will your baby. Enjoy this moment of gentleness and take the time to observe their reactions to adapt to their needs for a successful bath every time!
Do you have other tips or questions about baby's bath? Share them in the comments!