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Bathing should be a special time between you and your baby. You will want to use this time to bond. Usually, bathtime is right before storytime and then bedtime. Babies do tend to relax after a bath and parents can use this in a bedtime routine, even for a fussy baby.
When you first bring your baby home from the hospital, the umbilical cord stump will still be attached to your baby. That means until the cord stump falls off, you will be giving your baby sponge baths. Newborns only need to be bathed two or three times a week. As long as you are keeping your baby's bottom cleaned and washing your baby's face and hands daily, they will not need to be bathed any more than that.
*SPONGE BATHING
1. If you have counterspace, lay your baby there on clean, soft towels or anywhere that both you and your baby will be comfortable. Have your baby wrapped in a towel.
2. Have everything you need near you so that you don't ever leave your baby unattended.
3. For newborns, you will only need a basin of water, two soft washcloths and cotton balls.
4. Use one cotton ball to swipe each eye and one to clean each ear. Do not use the same ball for both.
5. Use the first washcloth to wash your baby's face.
6. Then work your way down with the second washcloth exposing one area at a time, washing it and then covering it up again.
7. Continue until finished.
After the cord falls off, your baby is ready for baths in a baby tub or sink. Only fill it with about two inches of water.
TUB BATHING
1. It is better if you give your baby a bath before feeding, but not if the baby is starving. Some babies have been know to spit up if bathed on a full tummy.
2. Give your baby a chance to adjust to baths. Not all like it at first and will fuss and cry.
3. Hold your baby firmly with one hand and always keep a constant eye on them.
4. Start with your baby's face and work downward. As your baby gets older, you can add baby soap to the washcloth or water.
5. Wash your baby's hair last using a little no-tears shampoo.
6. Bundle your baby in a hooded towel and dry completely before leaving the bathroom.
**Some parents bathe with their babies. It makes it easier to clean them and allows more bonding to take place.
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