Bathing your newborn for the first time is a special milestone—one that can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for new parents. Your baby’s delicate skin requires extra care, and knowing how to prepare, bathe, and care for them afterward will make the experience stress-free and enjoyable.
At Arau Baby, we believe that bath time should be gentle, safe, and soothing, using only the purest, plant-based products that protect your baby’s sensitive skin. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about giving your baby their first bath—from when to start, how to prepare, and the best techniques to ensure a calm and comforting experience.
When Should You Give Your Baby Their First Bath?
Newborns don’t need daily baths. In fact, for the first one to two weeks, it’s best to give your baby a sponge bath to keep them clean while allowing the umbilical cord stump to heal and fall off naturally.
Once the cord falls off and the belly button has healed, you can transition to a gentle bath in a baby tub about 2-3 times per week. Bathing too frequently can strip natural oils from your baby’s skin, leading to dryness or irritation.
Preparing for Baby’s First Bath: What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather everything you need so you won’t have to leave your baby unattended. Here’s a checklist of bath time essentials:
🛁 A baby bathtub – Use a small tub or sink lined with a soft towel for extra comfort.
💧 Warm water – The bath should be lukewarm (around 98-100°F or 37-38°C)—test it with your wrist or elbow.
🧼 A gentle, additive-free baby soap – Arau Baby Foam Body Soap is free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and harsh detergents, making it ideal for delicate skin.
🛏️ Soft washcloths – Use a gentle, cotton or muslin washcloth to cleanse your baby’s skin.
🧴 Baby lotion or moisturizer – Arau Baby’s Milky Lotion helps lock in moisture and protect against dryness.
🛏️ A soft towel – Choose a hooded towel to keep your baby warm and cozy after their bath.
👕 Clean clothes and a diaper – Have a fresh outfit and diaper ready to dress your baby right after their bath.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Safe & Gentle Bath
Create a calm, warm environment by keeping the room temperature comfortable (around 75°F / 24°C). Dim the lights, play soft music, or speak to your baby in a soothing voice to help them feel relaxed.
2. Fill the Tub with Lukewarm Water
Fill the baby bathtub with about 2-3 inches of warm water. Always test the temperature with your wrist or elbow—it should feel warm, not hot.
3. Undress Your Baby and Ease Them In
Gently undress your baby, leaving the diaper on until they are in the tub. Support their head and neck with one hand while slowly lowering them into the water, feet first.
4. Wash Gently with a Mild, Additive-Free Cleanser
Use a soft washcloth and a small amount of Arau Baby Foam Body Soap to gently cleanse their body. Start with the face (using just water), then move to their neck, arms, and legs.
🚼 Pro Tip: Avoid using harsh soaps or synthetic fragrances, as they can cause dryness or irritation.
5. Clean Their Hair & Scalp
If your baby has hair, use a small amount of gentle baby soap and softly massage their scalp. Rinse carefully using a cup or washcloth.
6. Rinse and Lift Carefully
Use a clean washcloth to rinse away any soap, then gently lift your baby out of the tub, supporting their head and back. Wrap them in a warm towel immediately to prevent them from getting cold.
