Up until your baby’s umbilical cord falls off, consider just giving him or her sponge baths rather than full baths. Once the umbilical cord falls off at two to three weeks, you can give your baby a full bath.
Do not try to peel scales off with a fingernail. Just try to gently loosen any ones that are already coming off by rubbing them with your fingers in or out of the bath or gently use a soft brush on the scales. [6] X Research source You can also use a warm wet washcloth. Once your baby gets cradle cap, your doctor may recommend some more aggressive treatments, such a hydrocortisone cream or an anti-fungal shampoo typically used for adult dandruff.
For a sponge bath, you’ll need a flat surface in a warm area, along with something for your baby to lay on, such as clean towel or blanket. You’ll also need a basin or sink to hold the warm water, along with all the supplies you’ll need for a regular bath, minus the bathtub. For a regular bath, you’ll need a place where you can bathe your baby, such as a baby bathtub or even a sink with a washcloth in the bottom. You’ll also need a washcloth, mild soap, mild baby shampoo, and a towel. [10] X Research source Don’t forget the clean diaper and clean clothes.
It only takes an inch of water to drown a baby, and it can happen in under a minute. If you’re giving a sponge bath, the baby could easily roll off the counter, injuring him- or herself.
Make sure you keep your baby warm by pouring water over him or her throughout bath time, if your baby is in a bathtub. For a sponge bath, you don’t need to completely undress the baby because you’ll only show what needs washing at the moment.
Use a mild soap to wash the rest of your baby’s body. For a boy, gently wash all around the penis without lifting the flap of skin. For a girl, wash from front to back without parting the vaginal lips. [15] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Rinse off any soap with a clean washcloth and water.
As you lift your baby out, be sure to have one hand supporting his or her neck and the other under his or her bottom, as you wrap your fingers around the baby’s thigh so you don’t lose your grip.
