What Are the Newborn Baby
Bathtime Essentials?

Baby bathtime doesn't have to be complicated.

Wash...then dry.

If you are ready to "take the plunge", here are some simple steps for bathing newborn babies. There are products and equipment out there that can make baby bathtime easier on you both.

So what equipment and supplies do you really need for bathing a newborn? Allow me to share with you what I think are the essentials along with the innovative gadgets that make bathing newborn babies a pleasure.

• Baby Bath Tubs – These have been around a long time, and are useful if you do not have a regular bath tub, or you will physically have a difficult time kneeling by the side of a bath tub.

  You may place the baby bath tub inside your tub, or even in your kitchen sink. Your child will be able to use a baby bath tub until she is able to sit up unassisted (around 6 months) at which time a bath ring or tummy tub will be more appropriate.

  There are some nice tubs available that have a cloth-like "sling" for newborns. This is the kind I now prefer, after learning how hard it is to manage slippery, squirmy infants in a one-size-fits-all baby tub.

  

• Baby Bathing Sponge – Even better than the baby bath tubs (in my opinion) is using a newborn bathing sponge placed in our full size tub. This makes it even easier to control the baby’s squirming when she is lying flat. Placing your baby on top of the sponge, you can fill enough water in the tub with which to wash the baby but still keep the baby’s ears above the water line. (The water will not cover the baby's entire body, so be sure to cover your newborn with a warm, wet washcloth to keep him warm.)

• Baby shampoo/body wash – Because newborn baby skin is so delicate, you will want to find a gentle baby wash. (It is unnecessary to purchase a separate shampoo and body wash.) The best baby wash will be organic or at least free from harsh chemicals. Click here to read a November 2011 Forbes.com article about known carcinogens in your favorite baby shampoo.

  I've found it surprisingly difficult to find chemical-free baby products in brick-and-morter stores. If you are at a loss as to where you can find baby skin products that are truly free from toxins, Earth Mama Angel Baby LLC. is a great place to start.
  
  

• Bath Toys – Eventually you will want some of these, but your newborn won’t be interested in toys for a couple of months. When that time comes, there are many great options.

• Baby Towels - There are some cute hooded baby towels out there. I have several, and now my toddlers argue over who gets to use them. The biggest plus for the baby towels are the hoods (which help baby stay warmer), and the softer material from which they are made. They are nice to have, but are not a necessity.

• Baby Washcloths - These are nice because of the softer, thinner material from which they are made. This protects delicate skin and helps clean all the nooks and crannies. :)

• Baby Brushes - A good baby brush is a must have (even if your baby is bald). Besides styling, it will be used a cradle cap treatment and preventor. (AND someday that bald baby will have hair!)

• Bathing Thermometers - I've never used one for baby bathtime, but if you are not confident about getting the water temperature right, this would be a good purchase.

See Related Articles

Bathing Newborn Babies - Guidelines for the Intimidated

Cradle Cap Treatment

Newborn Baby Checklist

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