Although some parents bathe their babies every day, until yours is crawling around and getting into messes, a bath isn't really necessary more than once or twice a week (Just wash your baby’s face frequently and thoroughly clean the genital area after each diaper change.) When you do bathe your baby, you may find it a little scary to handle a wiggly little one when he or she is soapy and slippery, so keep a good grip. Most babies find the warm water very soothing.

Instead of using a standard bathtub, which requires you to kneel or lean awkwardly over your baby and gives you less control over his or her movements, it makes sense to use the kitchen sink or a small plastic bath tub.

Here are some tips to help make bathing your baby easier. With this advice, hopefully your baby’s bath will become one of the most enjoyable parts of your days together:

1. Assemble all necessary bath accessories.
2. Fill the tub with 2 to 3 inches of water that feels warm but not hot about 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius).
3. Bring your baby to the bath area and undress him or her completely.
4. Gradually slip your baby into the tub, using one hand to support the neck and head. Pour cupfuls of bath water over their shoulders regularly during the bath to help keep your baby warm.
5. Use cleanser sparingly (it dries your baby's skin) as you wash with your hand or a washcloth from top to bottom, front to back. Wash your baby’s scalp with a wet, soapy cloth. Use a moistened cotton ball to clean the eyes and face. As for your baby’s genitals, a routine washing is all that is needed. If dried mucus has collected in the corner of your baby's nostrils or eyes, dab it several times with a small section of a moistened washcloth to soften it before you wipe it out.
6. Rinse your baby thoroughly with a clean washcloth.
7. Wrap your baby in a hooded towel and pat dry. Once dry, apply a moisturizer and diaper cream if necessary.

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