Plain water is best for your baby’s skin for the first month. After this, you may use a mild baby soap to wash his bottom and in the folds on his arms and legs. [2] X Research source If your baby is 12 months old or older, you can use a mild baby shampoo and a mild baby soap. [3] X Research source
Some research has suggested that using more water, enough to cover his shoulders, can help to keep him calm during his bath. However much water you use, make sure you hold him securely at all times. [5] X Research source Check the temperature of the water with your wrists to ensure it is warm, not hot. [6] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Then get a fresh cotton ball, dip it in the bath water and wash gently around his ears, but not inside them. Repeat this with a fresh cotton ball around his other ear. Then dampen some more cotton balls and wash the rest of his face, neck and hands. Gently dry him with a soft towel. [8] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
This step is just to clean off any surface soiling. It is not a thorough cleaning of the area — this comes later.
Cup one of your hands above his eyes to protect them, and then rinse his head with a dampened washcloth, or warm water from the tap. [12] X Research source If you use water directly from the tap, make sure you check the temperature first. Always use a gentle baby shampoo. [13] X Expert Source Denise SternParenting Specialist Expert Interview. 19 February 2021.
In addition to using a washcloth, you can gently swish the water over his body, but take care not to splash him. Always use one hand to support his body at all times, keeping his head well up above the water line. Never leave him unattended in the bath for even a second. [15] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
If you try to force to foreskin back to clean the head of the penis, you may cause a tear in the skin, which can cause problems later on. If he has been circumcised, follow the instructions your doctor gave you. A circumcised penis may take a week to ten days to heal. Again, once your baby is older than a few weeks, you can use a use mild baby soap to clean his bottom, genitals, and the folds of his skin. Avoid products with alcohol or perfume. [16] X Research source
To avoid skin irritation, don’t use any lotions or oils until your baby is at least a month old. [18] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
