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Baby bath basics: A parent's guide
Content
How often does my newborn need a bath?
Is it better to bathe my baby in the morning or at night?
Is a sponge bath good enough?
What type of baby tub is best?
How much water should I put in the tub?
What about water temperature?
What's the best way to hold my newborn in the tub?
What should I wash first?
Should I wash my newborn's hair?
Will lotion after a baby bath help prevent rashes?
How much water should I put in the tub?
A common recommendation is 2 inches (about 5 centimeters) of warm — not hot — water. To keep your baby warm, you can pour warm water over his or her body throughout the bath. Some research suggests that using slightly more water — enough to cover a baby's shoulders — can be calming and help reduce heat loss. With any amount of water, be sure to hold your baby securely during the bath.
