Bathing Babies

1. Childhood Skin Problems Slideshow
2. Childhood Illnesses You Should Know Slideshow
3. Brain Foods: Healthy Food for Kids' Brains

• Bathing Babies Introduction
• How Often Should Babies Be Given a Bath?
• When Is the Best Time to Give Babies a Bath?
• What Type of Bath Is Best for a Baby?
• Health and Safety During Bath Time
• Bath Preparation
• Sponge Bath
• Portable Tub or Sink Bath
• Suggestions for Keeping the Bathroom Safe

Bathing your newborn baby for the first time is one of the sweetest, and for some, one of the most anxiety-provoking milestones of parenthood. Although parents may be nervous at first, they'll soon grow confident and competent as they learn what works best for them and their baby.

Until a baby starts crawling on the floor, a daily bath is not necessary. As long as adequate cleansing is done during diaper changes and after feedings, a bath two or three times a week in the pre-crawling months will keep a baby fresh smelling and presentable.

Just about any time of day can be the right time for a bath. Some parents feel bathing just before bedtime helps create a more relaxed state conducive to sleep. It is best to avoid baths just after or just before a meal, because so much handling on a full tummy could result in spitting up, and the baby may not be cooperative on an empty stomach. Give a baby time for the bath, so it need not be hurried, and there won't be a temptation to leave the baby unattended even for a second to take care of something else. Plan on not answering the phone during the bath time. If it's necessary to leave the room, take the baby along.

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