Newborn babies should not sit in the bath for more than 5-10 minutes at a time. Their body temperature regulates differently than adults, so they can get cold easily in the water. Additionally, their skin is sensitive and can dry out and become irritated if left in water too long.
How long should a newborn’s first bath be?
For a newborn’s first bath, limit it to 5 minutes or less. This gives them time to get used to the feeling of the water without getting cold. Make sure the room is warm and have towels ready nearby. Speak in a calm, soothing voice to help them feel secure.
When can babies sit up in the bath?
Most babies develop the strength to sit upright in the bath tub around 6 months old. However, always support them by placing one hand behind their back and neck. Never leave a baby unsupervised in bath water.
Tips for bathing a newborn
- Give sponge baths instead of full tub baths in the early weeks
- Use warm but not hot water around 100 F/37 C
- Have all supplies ready beforehand – soap, washcloth, towel, fresh diaper
- Support head and neck at all times
- Keep bathroom warm with door closed and avoid drafts
- Watch for signs of shivering or distress
- Limit first baths to 5 minutes or less
- Wash face and hair with separate cloths to avoid soap in eyes
- Gently pat dry, don’t rub
- Put on clean diaper and clothes right after bath to keep warm
How long are most infant bathtub seats designed for?
Most infant bathtub seats and rings are designed to only support a baby for short baths of 5-10 minutes. The packaging and instructions will indicate the maximum recommended time for use. Do not leave a baby unattended in one of these seats.
Key reasons infant bath seats have short use times:
- Prevent baby from getting too cold in the water
- Avoid skin irritation or breakdown from prolonged wetness
- Reduce risk if baby slips down or slides out of position
- Limit exposure to germs in dirty bath water
What temperature should baby’s bath water be?
The ideal water temperature for a newborn’s bath is around 100°F/37°C. This minimizes the risk of chilling or overheating. Use a bath thermometer to test the temperature before putting baby in the water.
Guidelines for bath water temperature:
- 100°F/37°C is optimal
- Do not exceed 104°F/40°C
- 90-94°F/32-34°C is too cold
- Check water with inside of wrist before bathing
- If it feels hot on skin, it’s too hot for baby
When can babies have a full bath in the tub?
Most pediatricians recommend waiting until the umbilical cord stump has fallen off completely before giving baby a full bath in the tub. This usually happens 7-21 days after birth. Until then, sponge baths are gentler on the healing cord area.
Signs baby is ready for full tub baths:
- Umbilical cord stump has fallen off
- Circumcision (if done) is healed
- Any skin rashes/cradle cap have cleared up
- Baby has good head control and can sit with support
- Baby enjoys bath time and splashing legs
How often should newborns be bathed?
For the first year, most pediatricians recommend bathing babies 2-3 times per week. Newborns do not get very dirty and bathing too frequently can dry out their sensitive skin. Exceptions may be made in hot weather or if baby has skin conditions needing baths.
Newborn bath frequency guidelines:
| Age | Recommended Bath Frequency |
|---|---|
| Newborn to 3 months | 2-3 times per week |
| 3-6 months | 3 times per week |
| 6-12 months | 3-4 times per week |
Bathing tips by age
Newborns 0-3 months
- Sponge bathe until cord falls off
- Support head and neck at all times
- Keep room warm and draft-free
- Limit baths to 5-10 minutes
- Use mild baby wash only on certain areas
- Pat dry gently with towel
3-6 months
- Tub baths ok once cord healed
- Use bath seats or tub inserts for support
- Introduce bath toys for splashing fun
- Pour water gently over body
- Wash baby’s hair with damp cloth
- Watch for signs of shivering or distress
6-12 months
- Begin using cup to rinse hair and body
- Add a non-slip mat for safety
- Use distraction and toys to make baths fun
- Keep watching baby at all times
- Never leave alone in bath water
Conclusion
Newborns should only sit in the bath for 5-10 minutes at a time to stay warm and prevent skin irritation. Support their head and neck at all times for safety. Optimal water temperature is around 100°F/37°C. Limit bath frequency to 2-3 times per week for newborns and adjust as they grow older. With some key precautions, bath time can be an enjoyable experience for both baby and parents.