Bathing your newborn

New babies are so small and wriggly, all new parents can get a little nervous when it comes to bath time. But once you’ve got the hang of it and your baby is used to it, a bath can be really fun!

The main thing is to go slowly, and keep a close watch on your wee one. They might be a champion swimmer one day, but for now it’s best to play it safe. As long as the bath water stays warm, your baby will be fine – so take your time.

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Top tips from parents

Tip #1: Be prepared

Image of three folded towels with a rubber duck and a hairbrush on top of the pile.

Make sure you have everything you need within easy reach before you start: towels, cotton wool, a fresh nappy and clean clothes.

Tip #2: Test the water

Check that the temperature of the water is lukewarm with your elbow or bath thermometer, and give it a stir to even out the hot patches before your baby goes in the water. This will protect your wee one and give you peace of mind too.

Image of a mum bathing a baby in a pink bath.

Your baby doesn’t need a proper bath tub – a basin or a small baby bath will work just as well.

Tip #4: Belly buttons

The umbilical cord will fall off around 10 days after your baby is born. Just wash around it gently until this happens.

What the professionals say

"Don't put your baby in the bath while the water is still running, as the water temperature can change very quickly and become too hot or cold. You also want to make sure they don’t get too cold once they’re out of the bath – wrap your baby in a dry towel and give them a cuddle for about 10 minutes before dressing them. And never take your eyes off them once they’re in the bath – even for just a second."

Common bath time questions

How often do I need to bathe my newborn?

There’s no need to give them a bath every day – a ‘top and tail’ wash will do to clean your baby’s face, neck and bottom.

The Ready Steady Baby website has more information.

Image of a dad drying a baby with a towel after a bath.

You don’t need a bath - a basin or small baby bath works, and will be easier for you too. Make sure the water is lukewarm (by testing it with your elbow or bath thermometer) and the water is no more than 5 inches deep for babies under 6 months old. Take a look at Ready Steady Baby for some pointers.

What if I have twins, triplets or more?

If you have more than one baby, the thought of bath time may be even more daunting. But don't worry, you'll soon get the hang of it!

If you don’t have a partner or they’re not around, don’t try to bathe your babies at the same time. It’s safer and easier to do one at a time, and have the other(s) wrapped up cosy beside you in their Baby Box. You can find more tips for bath time on the Twins Trust website.