Baby Bath Time 101: How Often Should You Really Bathe Your Newborn?
One of the first questions new parents ask right after “How do I swaddle?” is, “How often should I bathe my baby?” It sounds simple, but the answer isn’t the same as it is for older kids or adults. A newborn’s skin is delicate, still developing, and surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to cleanliness.
Here’s what you need to know before filling that tiny tub:
Why Less Is More in the Early Weeks
A newborn's skin is much thinner than ours and loses moisture quickly. Daily baths can strip away natural oils, leaving skin dry or irritated. Infact, most pediatricians recommend bathing newborns just two to three times a week in the first month.
Between baths, you can keep your baby clean with gentle “top-and-tail” wipes—cleaning their face, neck folds, hands, and diaper area.
The First Baths: Sponge Bath Stage
Until your baby’s umbilical cord stump falls off (usually within the first 1–2 weeks), stick to sponge baths. Lay your baby on a soft towel, keep them wrapped for warmth, and gently wash one area at a time with lukewarm water and a mild, tear-free cleanser if needed.
When You Can Start Tub Baths
Once the umbilical cord has healed, you can introduce shallow tub baths. Two to three times a week is still plenty—just make sure to:
- Keep the water lukewarm (around 37°C).
- Support your baby’s head and neck.
- Limit bath time to 5–10 minutes to avoid chilling.
More Baths Aren’t Always Better
It’s tempting to make baths a daily routine, especially because they can be a soothing part of bedtime routine. But for newborns, frequent bathing can dry the skin and cause flakiness or eczema flare-ups. If you love a nightly ritual, keep it short and skip the cleanser - warm water alone is enough most days.
At Tots and Bubbles, we know bath time is about more than getting clean—it’s about safety, bonding, and gentle care. Our products are designed to be mild enough for the earliest baths and trusted enough to grow with your baby, so whether you’re giving a quick sponge bath or a splashy tub soak, you can keep their skin happy and healthy from day one.
