Newborn baby bathing products: a step-by-step guide
Your beautiful little one has arrived into this world and now you’re faced with the overwhelming task of bathing them. But how do you start? Where do you bath them? Which newborn baby bathing products do you use? And should you bath them every day?
Bath time for babies is more than just cleaning; it’s a special moment to connect with your little one. It can even help your baby’s brain grow and make bedtime smoother, as long as you’ve got the right approach.
This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through the process of bathing your baby, from preparation to the actual bath and beyond, so you can make sure your little one is comfortable, clean, and ready for a good night’s sleep. We’ll cover everything you need to know about setting up for bath time, the best practices while bathing your baby, and tips on helping them settle down afterwards for a restful sleep. Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Choosing the Right Time and Place: Learn the best settings and times to make bath time relaxing for both of you.
- Essential Bathing Products: Discover why the New Leaf Essential Baby Gift Set* approved by paediatricians and made with over 95% natural ingredients, is perfect for your baby’s delicate skin.
- Gentle Washing Techniques: Find tips on how to gently cleanse your baby, to ensure their comfort and safety.
- The Importance of Moisturising: How New Leaf’s Baby Lotion* and Baby Oil* can protect and nurture your baby’s skin, keeping it soft and hydrated.
- Creating a Soothing Environment: We offer suggestions for a warm and calm bath time that will help your baby feel secure and loved.
- After Bath Care: We’ll finish up with some advice on wrapping up bath time with soothing massages and a peaceful bedtime routine.
AND, we are offering you the chance to win the New Leaf Essential Baby Gift Set*, so you can have all the tools you need to bathe your baby straight away.
More details on the competition are below, but let’s dive into how you can make bathtime the perfect experience for both you and baby now.
Click here to win the New leaf Essential Baby Gift Set now or enter below!
What newborn baby bathing products do I need for a newborn?
For a newborn, you’ll want to gather a few essential bath products designed specifically for their delicate skin. These should include:
Baby wash or Baby bath
Look for a gentle, tear-free baby wash or baby bath like New Leaf’s Baby Wash* or Baby Bath*.that’s free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. It should be mild enough for daily use, even on newborn skin.
Baby shampoo
If your baby has hair, a mild, tear-free baby shampoo can help. Like the wash, it should be gentle and free from any irritants.
Soft washcloths
Soft, gentle washcloths* are better for your newborn’s skin than sponges, which can be too abrasive.
Baby bathtub or support
A specially designed baby bathtub* or support pad can help keep your newborn safe and comfortable during bath time.
Hooded baby towels
Soft, absorbent, and with a hood to keep your baby’s head warm, these towels* are perfect for wrapping up your baby after their bath.
Baby Lotion, Oil or Moisturiser
After bathing, a gentle baby moisturiser can help keep your newborn’s skin soft and prevent dryness. Look for products specifically formulated for babies, free from dyes, perfumes, and parabens. New Leaf offers two exceptional products for this purpose: the Baby Oil*and the Baby Lotion*. The Baby Lotion, enriched with coconut oil and cocoa butter, provides deep moisturisation while ensuring the skin’s natural barrier is protected.
For a more intensive care option, the Baby Oil, crafted with organic oils from day one, is perfect for nurturing and soothing baby’s skin, making it an ideal choice for baby massage or for treating dry spots. Both products are formulated without harmful additives, ensuring your baby’s skin receives the gentlest care.
Bath thermometer
To ensure the water is at a safe temperature for your newborn, consider using a bath thermometer*. The ideal water temperature is around 37°C (98.6°F). If you haven’t got a bath thermometer, then the best place to check the temperature is on the wrist or elbow. These areas are more sensitive to temperature changes than your hands and can give you a better sense of whether the water will be comfortable for your baby.
When choosing bath products for your newborn, prioritise items that are designed to be gentle and safe for their sensitive skin. Products like those found in the New Leaf Baby Gift Set* are formulated with organic and natural ingredients, making them an excellent choice for newborns.
Newborn baby bath products to avoid
Avoid using regular soaps, bubble baths, or any products not formulated for babies, as these can be too harsh and strip the natural oils from your newborn’s skin. The New Leaf Essential Baby Gift Set*, for example, includes baby bath products for newborns, so they are gentle enough while still keeping your baby clean and comfortable.
Click here to win the New leaf Essential Baby Gift Set now!
Why is bathing important for babies?
Bathing your baby isn’t just about keeping them clean; it’s a key part of their care that does so much more. It’s also a chance to bond with your little one, which is so important for their emotional growth. Plus, bath time is great for their brain development, thanks to all the new sensations they experience with water and the way you engage with them during bath playtime.
When it comes to taking care of your newborn, picking the right baby bath time products is a big deal. Babies have super sensitive skin that can easily react to harsh chemicals found in some products. That’s why we recommend going for organic options like the ones in the New Leaf essential Baby Gift Set*. These products in the newborn baby bath set are made with gentle, natural ingredients that are safe for your baby’s skin, reducing the chance of any irritation or allergies.
It is generally advised that you allow your newborn’s skin to only come into contact with water for the first few weeks before you introduce external products, but New Leaf’s bath products for babies are suitable from birth.
For the first six weeks, particularly for dry areas, midwives recommend using oil. This is where New Leaf’s 100% natural Baby Oil comes into play, blending organic apricot and jojoba oils. Ideal for post-bath moisture retention or baby massages, it’s also a favourite among mothers for reducing stretch marks post-pregnancy. After three months, you can switch to the Baby Lotion, which features coconut oil, cocoa butter, and glycerine for deep hydration, safeguarding the skin’s delicate barrier and leaving it smooth and nurtured.
Should I bathe my newborn everyday?
You don’t have to bath your newborn every day, as they don’t get very dirty. In fact frequent bathing can actually dry out their delicate skin. But it is important to keep their face, neck, hands, and nappy area clean between baths, which can be done with a sponge bath or wipes. As your baby grows and becomes more active, then you can bath them more frequently. Always use gentle, baby-specific products that are kind to their sensitive skin, like those found in the New Leaf Essential Baby Gift Set*.
What are the best baby bath products for bathing a newborn?
Choosing the right bathing products for babies is key to keeping their delicate skin protected and healthy. Look for gentle, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free products designed specifically for babies. The New Leaf Essential Baby Gift Set* offers organic options that are safe for your baby’s sensitive skin. This set includes the Baby Oil*, Baby Lotion*, Baby Wash*, and Baby Bath*, all formulated without harsh chemicals, so your baby can have a safe and soothing bath time.
The New Leaf Baby Wash is ideal for newborns’ delicate skin and hair. Crafted with shea butter and camellia seed oil, it locks in moisture and protects against dry skin conditions, ensuring your baby’s skin and hair are cleansed gently. This 95% natural formula is paediatrician approved and dermatologically tested, making it safe for use from the very first bath. Suitable for newborns 3kg and up, it’s a one-stop solution for hair, head, and body, offering peace of mind with each use.
Remember, the best bath products for baby are those that clean effectively while being gentle on your baby’s skin, to avoid any unnecessary irritation or dryness. The New Leaf Baby Bath is fragrance free with emollient-rich oat extract, while shea butter softens and moisturises.
Where do you bathe a newborn?
You can bathe your newborn in several safe and comfortable places, depending on what works best for you and your baby. A small baby bathtub (we used this one*) is a popular choice because it’s designed to support a newborn’s head and body. You can place the baby bathtub on a flat, stable surface like the counter, the floor, or even inside your own bathtub to make it easier to manage water and supplies.
You may prefer using a sink, especially in the early weeks. Just make sure the sink is clean and use a sink liner* or a soft towel at the bottom for extra comfort and to prevent slipping.
Wherever you choose to bathe your newborn, it’s advisable to keep everything you need within arm’s reach, and make sure the room is warm. Also, never leave your baby unattended, not even for a second. Comfort, safety, and being prepared are key to a safe and successful newborn bath time.
Preparing for newborn bath time
Before you start bathtime, set up your environment first, which should be a soothing and secure environment that promotes bonding and maximises baby’s comfort and safety. So, let’s explore how you can set the scene for a perfect bath time experience and what newborn bath time essentials you’ll need.
Set the scene
Start by creating a calming atmosphere for a stress-free bath time. Here are some tips on how to make bath time a serene experience:
Use dimmed lights or candles out of reach
Soft lighting helps soothe your baby, making the bath time experience more relaxing. Bright lights can be overstimulating for your little one’s sensitive eyes, so using dimmed lights or placing candles safely out of reach can create a soothing environment that mimics the warmth and comfort of the womb.
Put on light classical music or sleep meditation music in the background
The gentle flow of classical music or the soothing tones of sleep meditation music can have a calming effect on both you and your baby. Music stimulates babies’ brain development, soothes their emotions, and can make bath time feel like a peaceful retreat from the day’s excitement. It’s a simple way to enhance the sensory experience of bath time, making it more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Choose a time when the baby is awake and happy
Timing is everything. A well-rested baby who is alert and in a good mood is more likely to enjoy the bath. So, observing your baby’s daily patterns will help you choose a time when they are most receptive to new experiences.
Try not to bathe your baby straight after feeding or when they’re hungry/tired
Bathing your baby immediately after a meal can cause discomfort or fussiness due to their full stomach. Similarly, a hungry or overly tired baby may not enjoy bath time and become more difficult to soothe, as mentioned above. Wait for a while after feeding and make sure your baby isn’t hungry or too tired before you start the bathtime process.
Keep the room temperature nice and warm
Babies lose heat more quickly than adults, and a chilly room can make bath time an unwelcome shock. Keeping the room warm ensures your baby remains comfortable and prevents the cold air from causing distress. And a warm room will make the transition from bath to towel more gentle for your baby’s delicate body.
An ideal room temperature for bathing a baby should be around 75°F (24°C) to help create a cosy environment and minimise the risk of your baby feeling chilled.
Have all your bath essentials for baby within distance
Having everything you need within arm’s reach is crucial for a smooth and safe baby bath time. This includes New Leaf’s Baby Oil*, Baby Lotion*, Baby Wash*, and Baby Bath*. Additionally, prepare soft washcloths, a clean towel, a fresh nappy, and any other bathing accessories you might need. We’ll go through each of these in more detail in a moment but organising these items beforehand ensures you can always keep one hand on your baby at all times.
Please remember to keep all skincare products out of reach of infants at all times.
A soft towel or cushion to protect your knees
Your comfort is just as important as your baby’s. Using a soft towel or cushion to kneel on can reduce strain on your knees and back, making bath time more enjoyable for you as well. When you’re comfortable, you’re more likely to be patient, which in turn helps your baby stay relaxed.
Bathing your newborn step-by-step
Now for the actual bath experience!
For the initial months, your baby’s bath should be a gentle affair. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A bowl of warm water maintained at a cosy temperature close to the baby’s body temperature, around 37°C (98.6°F).
- Soft cotton towels for drying your baby after the bath.
- Cotton wool balls for cleaning delicate areas gently.
- A fresh nappy and a set of clean clothes.
- A nappy bag for conveniently disposing of used cotton wool.
Topping and tailing is a great way to introduce bathing
If the idea of a full bath seems daunting initially, consider topping and tailing — a simpler method focusing on cleaning the baby’s face, neck, and nappy area. This method allows you to gradually get accustomed to handling your baby during bath time. The steps include:
- Holding your baby on your knee or laying them on a changing mat.
- Removing clothes, leaving the vest and nappy, and wrapping your baby in a towel.
- Using damp cotton wool to clean the baby’s eyes, ears, face, and neck gently.
- Changing the nappy and cleaning the baby’s bottom with fresh cotton wool and warm water.
When you’re ready to transition to the baby bath
Bathing your baby need not be a daily routine, but it’s such a great way to bond with your baby. Here’s how to bathe a newborn baby:
- Make sure the bath water is warm, using your wrist or elbow to test the temperature.
- Begin by cleaning your baby’s face, as done in topping and tailing.
- Carefully wash your baby’s hair with plain water, supporting their head and neck.
- Gently lower your baby into the bath, using one hand to support their head and shoulders.
- With the other hand, gently splash water over your baby’s body, avoiding any direct pouring of water on the face.
- When you’re finished, carefully lift your baby out of the bath, and pat them dry, focusing on getting the folds of the skin dry to prevent irritation.
- When you’re ready, you can start to introduce bathing products to the bath routine
Bath time dos and don’ts
- Do: Use just plain water for the baby’s skin in the initial weeks until your baby’s skin gets used to its environment.
- Don’t: Leave your baby unattended during bath time.
- Tip: If your baby isn’t enjoying bath time, try joining them in the bath to make them feel more secure.
Enhance bathtime fun with music and eventually bath toys
Enhancing bathtime with music and, as your baby grows, introducing bath toys, can turn a routine activity into a great learning and bonding experience. Soft music and singing to your baby can not only soothe them, but support emotional connection and language skills. As they get older, introducing toys designed to boost hand-eye coordination and visual tracking, such as floating toys or those in high-contrast colors like black, white, and red, adds fun and encourages developmental milestones. Light-up toys offer visual stimulation, making bath time both entertaining and educational.
Beyond bathtimes – what to do after the bath
What happens after bathtime isn’t just about getting dry; it’s a whole new chapter of care for your baby. In this part, we’ll share tips on feeding, burping, and how to make baby massage a soothing ritual. Plus, we’ll talk about the importance of regular nappy changes and setting up a cosy bedtime routine.
Creating a soothing bedtime routine
Creating a soothing bedtime routine is all about consistency and calmness. Start with a quiet activity, like reading a gentle story or playing soft music, to signal that it’s time to wind down. Make sure the sleeping environment is comfortable, with dim lights and a cosy temperature. Incorporating a predictable sequence of steps, such as a bath followed by massage and then feeding, helps your baby understand that sleep time is near. The key is regularity; doing the same activities in the same order every night can significantly improve your baby’s sleep patterns. Here are some things you can include in your routine before bedtime.
Grooming time
Grooming your baby after bath time is crucial for comfort and safety. It’s essential to take care of their nails to prevent them from scratching themselves accidentally, which means using special baby nail scissors or a fine emery board designed for their delicate nails. Make sure you’re working in a well-lit area and hold your baby’s hand gently but firmly. You may find it easier to cut their nails when they are asleep.
The benefits of baby massage
Baby massage is a soothing practice that has several benefits, including promoting relaxation, aiding digestion, enhancing parent-baby bonding, improving sleep patterns, and stimulating neurological development. It’s also known for its role in strengthening the immune system, reducing crying, and easing muscle tension.
Starting around one month old, gently massage your baby with safe oils like New Leaf Baby Oil. Here’s a simple guide:
- Choose a quiet, warm room and a comfortable surface.
- Warm a small amount of baby oil in your hands.
- Begin with gentle strokes on your baby’s feet, moving upwards towards the legs, tummy, chest, arms, and back.
- Use soft, circular motions and avoid any sensitive areas.
- Maintain eye contact and softly talk or sing to your baby, enhancing the bonding experience.
This calming routine can aid in your baby’s sensory development and sleep quality.
Nappy changing essentials
Regular nappy changes are essential to keep your baby’s skin healthy and prevent irritation and nappy rash. Using gentle wipes or water during changes helps clean the skin softly without causing dryness or discomfort. Setting up an organised changing station ensures everything you need—like nappies, wipes, and rash cream—is within reach. Creating a comfortable and well-equipped changing area can make nappy changes a smoother part of your daily bathtime routine.
Establish a feeding and burping routine
Establishing a feeding and burping routine after bathtime can help soothe and prepare your baby for a good night’s sleep. Create a comfortable space for feeding, by utilising supportive pillows and/or nursing chairs, so there’s no rush for you and baby. For burping, gently patting or rubbing your baby’s back in an upright position can help release trapped air and ease any discomfort. If you’re breastfeeding, you can find some great tips on how to do this here.
Final thoughts
As we conclude our guide on newborn care during bathtimes, it’s evident that the steps from bathing to establishing a soothing bedtime routine are crucial for your baby’s health and wellbeing. The New Leaf Essential Baby Gift Set* offers a foundation of gentle and organic care for your baby, ensuring comfort and protection from the beginning.
It’s so important to embrace these nurturing moments with your baby, as they are fleeting. When you’re ready to get started, participate in our competition below for a chance to win the New Leaf Essential Baby Gift Set* and arm yourself with the tools you need for a fantastic bathtime experience with your baby!
Competition time! Win the New Leaf Essential Baby Bath Set worth £35.00
We’re thrilled to announce a fantastic opportunity for our readers: the chance to win the New Leaf Essential Baby Gift Set!* This set includes a range of gentle and nurturing products perfect for your baby’s skin, ensuring a safe and enjoyable bath time experience.
Click here to win the New leaf Essential Baby Gift Set now!
Baby bath essentials – Printable checklist
If you’re looking for more, I have a baby bath essentials list, which you can use when you’re preparing for bathtimes for your baby. You can either pin this baby bath supplies checklist or print it out and stick it on your bathroom wall.
FAQ
Choosing baby bath products
- Can I use regular soap or body wash on my newborn or do I need to use specific baby products?
- What products should a parent be using to bathe their newborn?
- Which are the best products for babies? What products do newborn babies need?
- Should I use soap or body wash for my 3-month-old baby?
- Is it necessary to use baby products on babies or can we use regular body wash?
- How do I choose baby wash for babies?
- Which is the best baby lotion and baby soap for newborns?
- What are some alternative bath care products for babies instead of Johnson & Johnson?
- Are there any natural ways to bathe a baby without using chemical-filled shampoo and soaps?
- What should I avoid in bath products for a baby?
- What are the best types of baby shampoo and body wash for a newborn’s sensitive skin?
When choosing bath products for your newborn, it’s crucial to select items specifically formulated for their delicate skin. Regular soaps and body washes designed for adults may contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that could irritate a baby’s sensitive skin. Instead, opt for gentle, hypoallergenic baby bath care products free from harmful substances.
For newborns, consider using products that are mild and have been dermatologically tested for baby skin. Products like the New Leaf Baby Gift Set offer a range of organic skincare items, including baby wash, lotion, and oil, ensuring your baby’s skin is nurtured from day one without the risk of irritation.
When selecting a baby wash or shampoo, look for ones that are free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, and prioritise those with natural ingredients. The best bath products for babies are those that clean gently without stripping the skin of its natural oils. For babies over three months, you can start introducing products like a gentle shampoo if your baby has more hair, but always ensure they are suitable for sensitive skin.
For parents seeking alternatives to mainstream brands like Johnson & Johnson, organic and natural product lines, such as those offered by New Leaf, provide excellent options that focus on using ingredients that are safe and beneficial for baby’s skin. Many parents are turning towards natural ways to bathe their babies, using products with organic ingredients that offer a gentle cleanse without the use of harsh chemicals.
It’s advisable to avoid bath products that contain strong fragrances, dyes, and potential allergens. Instead, look for products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and oatmeal, which are known for their gentle properties on sensitive skin.
In summary, choosing the right baby bath products involves looking for gentle, safe, and hypoallergenic options that cater to the unique needs of a newborn’s skin. Brands like New Leaf offer a range of products designed with these criteria in mind, providing parents with safe and nurturing choices for their baby’s bath time.
Specifics on soap and shampoo
- How important is it to use soap for newborns?
- Can I use soap for my newborn baby?
- Is it safe to use regular baby shampoo and lotion when bathing a newborn?
- Which soap is good for a one-month-old baby to bathe?
- What’s the best bath products for newborns?
- When can I use baby bath products on my newborn?
When bathing your newborn, using soap may not always be necessary, especially in the first few weeks. Newborns don’t get very dirty, so washing with warm water alone can often suffice for their face, hands, and nappy area. However, if you choose to use soap, opt for a very mild, fragrance-free soap formulated specifically for babies. Regular baby shampoo and lotion can be introduced, but it’s essential to ensure they are suitable for newborns, meaning they should be free from harsh chemicals and fragrances that could irritate their delicate skin.
For a one-month-old baby, a gentle, hypoallergenic baby soap or wash is ideal. Products that contain natural ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile can be soothing for a baby’s skin. The New Leaf Baby Gift Set offers excellent options for newborns, including baby wash and shampoo that are designed to be gentle on sensitive skin.
You can start using baby bath products on your newborn from the first bath, but it’s crucial to choose products designed for their delicate skin. In the early days, you may wish to limit the use of products and gradually introduce them as your baby gets older and their skin becomes more accustomed to bath time.
The best bath products for newborns are those that clean gently without drying out the skin or causing irritation. Look for organic, natural products that are specifically formulated for newborns, like those in the New Leaf Baby Gift Set, which are designed to nourish and protect while being gentle on your baby’s skin.
Baby bathing essentials
- What are some baby bathing essentials?
- What baby bath products do I need?
- What do I need to bath my baby?
- What’s your favourite baby bath product that makes bath time fun?
When preparing for baby bath time, there are several essentials you’ll need to ensure a safe, soothing, and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby. The basics include:
- A baby bathtub or a bath support pad – A secure space designed for your baby makes bath time easier and safer. Consider features like non-slip surfaces and ergonomic designs that support your baby comfortably.
- Gentle baby wash – A tear-free, hypoallergenic baby wash that’s formulated for sensitive skin is essential. It should clean without stripping natural oils from your baby’s skin.
- Baby shampoo – Similar to baby wash, a mild baby shampoo that doesn’t irritate the eyes is crucial for keeping your baby’s hair clean and soft.
- Soft washcloths – Use gentle washcloths to clean your baby’s body. Avoid rough materials that could irritate their sensitive skin.
- Hooded baby towels – After bath time, wrap your baby in a soft, absorbent hooded towel to keep them warm and dry their skin gently.
- Baby lotion or oil – Moisturising your baby’s skin after a bath can prevent dryness. Look for products specifically formulated for infants, such as those included in the New Leaf Baby Gift Set.
- A bath thermometer – Ensuring the water temperature is just right (around 37°C or 98.6°F) is crucial for your baby’s comfort and safety.
- Fun bath toys – As your baby grows, introducing safe, age-appropriate bath toys can make bath time an enjoyable experience, encouraging play and development.
Among these essentials, a favourite product that adds fun to bath time is bath toys designed for little hands. Toys that float, squirt water, or are easy to grip can turn bath time into an enjoyable playtime, making it an experience your baby looks forward to.
*This post is sponsored by New Leaf and affiliate links are marked with a ‘*’, which means I will earn a small commission if you click through to buy at no extra cost to you.
