Bathing Your Baby – More Than Just Hygiene



Bathing your baby is more than a matter of hygiene and infection prevention. It is a special time to offer comfort and share affection between parents and baby.



“How often should I bathe my baby?”



It’s not necessary to bathe your baby every day. You can do it on alternate days, adjusting the schedule to your routine and your baby’s adaptation. For example, bath time can be in the late afternoon or early evening if it helps your baby to relax.



Before the bath



Room temperature: Ensure the room is warm and comfortable, ideally between 22°C and 25°C, and free from drafts.



Materials ready: Have everything you need within reach, including clothes arranged in the order you’ll dress your baby (use cotton clothes close to the skin, avoiding wool).



Bath and water temperature: Use a baby bath and fill it with about 10 cm of water. Check the water temperature with your elbow, inner forearm, or a thermometer (between 36°C and 37°C).



Suitable products: Use products with neutral pH and no perfume to protect the baby’s sensitive skin.



Cleaning the genitals first: Before placing the baby in the water, clean the genital area with gauze moistened in water. Wipes should only be used in special situations, such as outside the home.



During the bath



Hold your baby securely and start the bath gently:



Eyes, face, and head: Wash these areas first.



Body and bottom: Then wash the body and, finally, the bottom, paying special attention to skin folds.

For girls, clean the genital area from front to back.

For boys, wash the penis from top to bottom and around the foreskin (do not pull the foreskin back unless instructed by a doctor).



Add a small amount of baby wash to the bathwater — never apply it directly to the skin.

Don’t forget to clean the umbilical cord area during the bath.



After the bath



Use a soft towel to dry the baby gently without rubbing, paying attention to skin folds.



Clean the ears with the towel — never use cotton buds.



Dry the umbilical stump well and keep it outside the nappy to let it air dry (fold the nappy below this area).



Apply moisturising or barrier cream only if needed.



Dress the baby starting from the top to avoid getting cold.



Nail care



After the bath is the ideal time to file or cut the baby’s nails using round-tipped scissors, as the baby is usually calmer. You can also do this while the baby sleeps. Avoid cutting the nails in the first few days of life to prevent injuries.



Umbilical Cord Care



The drying and detachment of the umbilical cord usually take around a week, but it can last up to two weeks.



Keep the cord clean and dry, positioned outside the nappy.



Clean it daily or whenever necessary.



Do not pull the cord while handling.



It’s normal to see some yellowish secretion or small amounts of blood during drying and for 2–3 days after it falls off.



⚠️ Warning signs: If you notice redness, a bad smell, or purulent discharge, seek medical help immediately.



A special thanks to Nurse Fernanda Cortinhas, Specialist in Child and Paediatric Health, for her collaboration.