Bathing and skin care

Your newborn's skin is soft and delicate. Proper skin care and bathing can help maintain the health and texture of your baby's skin while providing a pleasant experience for both of you. Contrary to popular thought, most babies don't need a bath every single day. With all the diaper changes and wiping of mouth and nose after feedings, most babies may only need to be bathed two or three times a week or every other day.

Baths can be given any time of day. Bathing before a feeding often works well. Many parents prefer to bathe their baby in the evening, as part of the bedtime ritual. This works well especially if bath time is relaxing and soothing for your baby.

Sponge baths are required at first. Bathing in a tub of water should wait until your baby's umbilical cord falls off, and a baby boy's circumcision heals, to prevent infection.