Should I Give My Baby a Sponge Bath or a Tub Bath?
There are a few things to consider as you’re deciding whether to give your baby a sponge bath or a tub bath. First, look at the umbilical cord. Is it still attached? Is there any oozing or bleeding from the site? If yes, then give a sponge bath. Next, is your baby circumcised? If the circumcision is still healing, then give a sponge bath. If your baby’s cord and circumcision are healed nicely, then the choice is yours. Babies are slippery when wet, so some parents prefer to give sponge baths until they feel more confident. However, most babies seem to prefer a tub bath, and they will cry less and enjoy bath time more in a tub.
How Often You Should Give a Baby a Bath
Babies, especially preemies, have sensitive skin that gets dry very quickly. If your baby’s skin is dry, bathe them every two to four days. Babies who sweat a lot or spit up frequently will need to be bathed more frequently, while babies who stay mostly clean can go longer between baths.
Equipment for Bathtime
To give your premature baby a bath, you will need:
Clean clothes, a hat, and a diaperA towelTwo washclothsBaby soap, shampooA baby bathtub or bowl of waterFor sponge baths, an extra towel or absorbent pad
Steps to Bathing a Baby
The first step to bathing your baby is to gather all of your supplies. You can’t walk away once you put your baby in the bathtub, so make sure you have everything you need. Preemies get cold easily, so give your baby a bath in a warm room. Fill the bathtub or bowl with lukewarm water (test it with your wrist or elbow). Lay down a towel or absorbent pad if you’re going to give your baby a sponge bath. If you’re giving a tub bath, put your baby in the bathtub, supporting their neck and shoulders. Wash your baby in the following order: Congratulations! Bath time is finished. Snuggle your baby and offer a feeding, then lay them down to sleep. Babies are often sleepy after a bath and may eat less or sleep better after a bath than at other times.
