Sponge Bath
Until his belly button heals, give your baby a sponge bath.
- Lay your baby on a padded towel.
- Dip a cotton ball into plain water and gently wipe his eyes.
- Use a wet washcloth (no soap) to wash his face. Then wash his body with soapy water. Wash the diaper area last.
- Rinse him off with plain water and pat him dry.
Tub Bath
After the umbilical cord heals, bathe your baby in a small plastic tub or in the sink with just a few inches of water. Line it with a sponge or towel to make it less slippery.
Don't leave your baby alone in the tub, even for a minute!
- Gently wash his face with plain water. Wash his body with soapy water. Wash the diaper area last.
- Wash your baby's hair with a little baby shampoo. Tip his head back so the shampoo doesn't run into his eyes.
- Rinse him with clean water.
- Wrap your baby in a towel and pat him dry.
For safety tips, read Bathtubs and Bath Products from Consumer Reports.
July 2008
