BATHING

Newborns will receive their first bath in the nursery. After many parents bring their baby home, they often want to bathe the baby every day. Babies have not established bacterial flora on their skin in the early days, so there is no need for a bath more frequently than every two to three days. If a baby tends to spit up excessively, he/she may need more frequent sponge baths.

Sponge baths should be used until the umbilical cord remnant falls off and the skin at the base heals. After that time, your infant may be submerged in an infant tub or sink for baths. Mild baby soaps and shampoo can be used on the body, and only warm water should be used on the face. If the skin gets too dry and cracks after baths, you may use a mild baby lotion sparingly.