Baths for Newborns

Newborns cannot have submersion baths until their umbilical cord falls off and is healed (and a boy’s circumcision site is healed).

During these first couple of weeks if you would like to bathe your child you should sponge bathe them. The challenge with sponge bathing is to keep the infant warm and happy.

After the umbilical area (belly button) has healed you can give your child a real bath. Unless your baby is a big spitter their is little need to bathe your baby.

However, we have always bathed our babies each evening as part of a bedtime routine. After a couple weeks of nighttime bathes and routine you will see your child relax and prepare for nighttime. See Sleeping

Baths when sick

Is it okay to give baby a bath even if he has cough and cold symptoms? A soothing, warm bath is a great way to alleviate “cold” symptoms. Warm water seems to open clogged nasal passages (... more on baths when sick)

Written April 2010 by
Dr. Gordon Orlando Pediatrician