Pregnancy And Baby Care Bathing a Baby Sponge Bathing A Baby

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Preparing for your baby's first sponge bath

Before attempting to sponge bathe your baby, keep warm water, mild baby soap and shampoo, a wash cloth, a soft towel and baby powder ready. Pad the area that you intend using with some soft fabric or a large towel before placing your baby on it. A gentle oil massage before a sponge bath is recommended for protecting and strengthening the skin. While sponge bathing your baby, starting from the head, continuing to the extremities and finally ending in the diaper area is the recommended method.

Baby's first sponge bath tips

While sponge bathing a baby's head, dip the wash cloth in warm water and gently moisten the head, being especially careful of the area on the top of the head which is one of the most delicate regions of the baby's body. Then, gently wash the scalp with a mild shampoo and wipe off carefully. Ensure that the scalp is free of all shampoo before changing the water. Then clean the face carefully paying special attention to the eye-lids and ears. Using the wet warm cloth, first wet your baby's skin, then gently apply some soap with your hands and clean off well.

Avoid the direct use of the soap. Repeat the process for every part of the body and change the water every time you wipe off the soap before advancing to the next area. The baby's bottom should be washed from front to back to avoid infections. The genital area should be cleaned thoroughly. Drying the skin well is recommended, especially the folds of the neck, arms and legs to prevent fungal infections. Before dressing your baby, applying baby powder, with a soft powder puff, all over the body will ensure that your baby is completely dry and smells fresh all day. At first, your baby may get a bit scared as the procedure is new to him / her. Gradually, your baby will grow to love it because it gives the baby a certain reassurance and a sense of closeness and love.