Parenting

In this step by step guide, we'll tell you how often you should bath your baby, where you should do it, as well as adding some great tips on the best way to give your baby a bath.

First of all, you'll need to choose a bath from the many models on sale. Small plastic baby baths for new born babies have the advantage of not requiring you to kneel or lean awkwardly beside your baby, with less control over its movements. Some baby baths come with stands to raise the height to a manageable level. You'll also need some gentle soap and shampoo designed specially for babies, a soft cloth and a soft towel afterwards. Do not use strong cleansers, which can damage the skin of newborn babies. If your baby has nappy rash, have some cream on hand for afterwards.

A daily bath isn't really necessary for a small baby – how often you do it is up to you.

When washing between baths, concentrate on the face first, then the genital area. When your baby is having a bath, its important to hold it with a good grip,

especially if it is soapy and slippery. Most babies find warm water very soothing. 

To make bath time one of the most enjoyable parts of a baby's (and your) day, follow this step by step guide

• Assemble all the bath accessories within easy reach. You don't want to move away from the baby when the bath is underway.
• Make sure that the room is warm and the bath temperature is comfortable – warm but not hot. The elbow in the water test is a good guide – if it feels comfortable to you, it will be acceptable for the baby for newborns and babies up to six months old, fill the bath with about 5 inches of water enough to let your baby settle and cover its shoulders. Never fill the bath more than waist high in sitting position for older children.
• Bring your baby to the bath and undress them completely
• Gently slip your baby into the bath, using one hand to support its neck and head. 
• Use the soap sparingly as you wash the baby with your hand from top to bottom, front to back. Wash the scalp with a wet soapy cloth, and use moistened cotton wool to clean eyes and face. A routine wash is all that's necessary for the genitals. Dab away any dried mucus that has collected in the baby's nostrils or eyes. Rise your baby thoroughly with a clean flannel. Lift gently out the bath and wrap your baby in a towel and pat them dry. This is the time to apply lotion or cream if there is any nappy rash. Once dry, put on a nappy and the clothes, and you have one dry, clean happy baby.