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When can my baby be bathed?

A common question from brand-new parents – and the answer is more important than you think.

The first days with your baby are special and sometimes a little exciting. Many parents wonder when to bathe their baby for the first time. Immediately after birth? Or is it better to wait? In this article we explain what the best time is, why it is, and how to make this first bath time safe and relaxing – for you and your baby.

The first time bathing: rather not right away

After birth, it is advised not to bathe your baby immediately for the first 24 to 48 hours. That’s because your baby is still covered with vernix caseosa – a white, oily layer that protects, moisturizes and even helps protect the skin from infection. By delaying bathing for a while, you give the skin a chance to naturally adjust to the outside world.

When, then?

Baby Room Once your baby is stable and comfortable with touch, you can schedule the first bath time. This is usually sometime during the first week. Sometimes this happens already during the maternity visit of the midwife or maternity nurse, who can immediately give you tips on temperature, position and safety.

What do you need for the tub?

For the first bath, rest and preparation is important. Choose a warm room, put everything within easy reach and preferably use a tub that makes your baby feel safe, secure – like the TummyTub Original. Thanks to its round shape and warm water, the tub mimics the womb. This makes bath time soothing rather than exciting.

Checklist for the first bath:

  1. TummyTub
  2. Water at about 37°C
  3. Soft hydrophilic cloths
  4. Possibly a natural baby oil or wax emulsion
  5. A warm, dry towel and/or a bath baby cape
  6. Time, peace and attention

How often after that?

You don’t need to bathe your baby daily. Two to three times a week is often enough, unless there is a reason to do it more often (such as spitting up or a hot summer day). The rest of the days you can give a “cat wash” with a washcloth.

Bathing = connecting

In addition to getting clean, bath time is also an intimate moment of togetherness. Babies enjoy the warm water, the skin-to-skin contact and the peace and quiet. Many parents experience bathing as a nice way to get to know their baby better and relax together.

TummyTub Tip:
Choose a set time for bath time, such as right before bedtime. That way it becomes part of a familiar evening ritual.

Once you’re ready, we’ll make the bath time an experience you’ll look back on fondly – and one your baby will feel safe and secure in. Want to know how to do that with the TummyTub? Then check out our instructional video and usage tips.

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