Knowing when to introduce your infant to the bath is crucial. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAC) suggests delaying your newborn's first bath for 24 hours following delivery.
Also, you shouldn't submerge your infant in water until the circumcision site and the area around the umbilical cord have completely healed.
There are no conclusive studies that specify how frequently you should bathe a newborn, erring on the side of less is probably ideal.
Start off by taking a shower just once or twice a week, she advises. The frequency can be increased as the child becomes older.
It's crucial to note that bathing your child can be risky if not done appropriately. The best option is to have a partner or other responsible adult hand you the infant and then pick them up when you're ready to leave
If no other adults are available to assist, be sure you can safely get in and out of the tub with your baby in your arms. Avoid rising up and exiting the tub while holding your baby.
It goes without saying that using soap is only a minor portion of taking a bath; you also need to have the appropriate post-bath moisturising cream on hand.
According to Lawrence Frank Eichenfield, M.D., director of paediatric and adolescent dermatology at Children's Hospital and Health Center in San Diego, "a baby's skin is extraordinarily good at absorbing whatever is placed on it."
The AAC advises measuring the temperature inside your elbow before putting your infant in the water and maintaining your home's hot water no hotter than 120° Farenheight.
It's crucial to keep in mind that a baby's skin barrier is still developing, making them more susceptible to irritants and drying out. For the unclean parts, like the nappy, I advise using a tiny bit of cleaner.