Bathing

 
Very young babies do not get all that dirty, so they do not need to be bathed frequently. Bath time can be an enjoyable play time for both the baby and his caregiver. Many infants enjoy being in water and will splash around if they can.

Understandably, many new parents are nervous about bathing their newborns when they are very young and small. There is no real need to be concerned. As long as the baby is handled safely and properly, there is no harm in bathing. The first time the baby is bathed he may fuss and get upset. He will get used to it over time and come to like it.

Very young infants can simply be given a sponge bath. Thoroughly cleaning their face, hands, and diapered areas is plenty good. The mother can do this as part of her diaper changing and dressing routine each day. This daily sponge bath can be accompanied by a regular bath every two to thee days. The mother can use a cotton swab or soft cloth to gently wash the baby's face, hands and diaper-covered regions.

When bathing a young baby, the mother should choose a bath time that suits both she and the baby. Often, bathing in the evening is not a good idea because many babies are irritable at that time.

There is some equipment that the mother will need with in her reach in order to give the baby a bath:

- baby bath tub (optional)

- towels

- baby bath solution

- cotton cloth or balls

- diaper changing equipment

- clean clothes

In bathing the baby, there are some basic steps that the mother must take:

1. Fill the bath tub with two to three inches of water. Before placing the baby in the water, the mother should test the temperature using her wrist. The water should only feel warm and not hot. The tub should be placed on a flat surface.

2. Prior to placing the baby in the water, use cotton balls or a cotton cloth to wash his face and neck. With the baby wrapped firmly in a towel, the mother should cradle him in one arm with his head over the tub. With her other arm, the mother should wash the baby's hair.

3. The mother should now place a dry towel to the ready for after the baby's bath. Remove the baby from the towel he is wrapped in and lift him into the bath while supporting his head and shoulders in one arm, and his legs and bottom with the other.

4. While holding the baby in the tub and supporting his head with one arm, the mother should use her other arm to gently wash the baby. Look at and talk to the baby to reassure him that all is fine. Encourage his to kick and splash while in the water.

5. Lift the baby out of the tub in the same manner in which he was placed in it. Immediately wrap the baby in a towel so he does not get cold. Diaper and dress the baby.

Once the baby reaches the age of three or four months, and has gained greater head and neck control, it is much safer to use a regular household bath tub. The same steps outlined above are applicable to bathing in a large tub. Mild shampoo and soap should always be used. When washing the genitals of a female baby, wiping should always be done from front to back in order to prevent urinary tract infections.

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