Although some Parents like to bath their babies every day there is no evidence to suggest this is necessary. Overuse of cleansers and even tap water can upset the PH level in your babies delicate, developing skin.

Both Parents and babies should enjoy bathtime. Look out for gentle PH neutral cleansers and mild soaps especially designed for babies as their skins can be particularly sensitive. Always use sparingly in the first few weeks.

Washing your baby's face regularly as well as his/her genital area after a nappy change should be enough to keep him/her clean and fresh in between baths. Obviously as they get older and come into contact with more things then you may wish to bath your little one more frequently, but on average about twice a week is quite adequate to begin with.

Using a full size adult bath can be quite daunting for both Parents and their babies to begin with so use either a sink or specially designed baby bath. This will allow you to have more control over your baby's movements. As they get older and you become more confident you may prefer to use a baby support or seat for them in your own bath. 

To bath your baby:

1. Assemble all the necessary equipment - towels, toiletries, toys, etc.

2. Make sure the room is warm and the water isn't too hot, 38 degrees centigrade / 100.4 degrees farenheit has been shown to help babies retain body heat. (Bath thermometers are recommended and an inexpensive way to check if unsure). Fill the bath with some cold water first and then add the hot as this reduces the risk of scalding. Never place your child in a bath whilst the tap is still running.

3. Approximately 5-6 inches of water is adequate for a baby up to 6 months of age. Older (sitting) children should never be placed in a bath where the water exceeds waist level.

4. Undress your baby and bring him to the bath. Using one hand to support his neck and head gradually slip him into the bath until his shoulders are covered.

5. Moistioned cotton wool should be used in the first few weeks for cleansing his eyes, face and genitals. Dab nostrils and belly button gently to remove any mucus. As your baby gets used to bathing you can introduce a soft baby sponge.

6. Wash your baby's scalp gently with a very mild shampoo using your hand or a soft flannel.

7. Rinse your baby thoroughly then gently remove him from the bath again using your hand to support his neck and head.

8. Wrap your baby in a towel and gently pat him dry. A newborn baby's head should also be covered to help retain body heat - you can get hooded towels for this purpose.

9. Talcum powder should be applied to areas that may retain a little moisture, such as under the arms, behind leg creases and between the toes. If your baby isn't properly dried before clothing is put on it may result in sore, red patches on their skin.

10. If your baby has nappy rash or dry skin you may want to apply a thin layer of cream such as vaseline, but otherwise this isn't necessary.

Safety.

Whatever kind of baby bath, support or seat you are using NEVER leave your child unattended for even a second. By ensuring that you have everything you need to hand before you start you should be able to avoid this, and if the phone rings or the doorbell goes then either ignore it or wrap your baby in a towel and take him with you. Between 1989 and 2003 there were 6 reported deaths of babies in the UK alone who had been left unattended whilst using a bath seat.

Do not encourage your child to stand in the bath, it is much safer for them to remain sitting at all times. You can also use non-slip mats for added protection when bathing older children.

Check out my other 'baby related' guides as listed below:

*Buying second hand baby products - what you should know

* Guide to buying or selling a second hand pram /pushchair

* The danger of baby walkers - banned in some countries!

 * Baby Walker Injuries - Results of a New Recent Study

* Get FREE products for new babies, Mums and Mums-to-be

* Buying a pram - which type is best for you & your baby?

* Baby & child car seats - The Legal Requirements

* What you should know about buying and using a cot

* Baby clothing - Essential shopping list for Mums-to-be

* How to make your home safe for a baby or toddler

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