What to expect: Until the umbilical cord stump falls off and heals, baby stays out of the tub — sponge baths only, 2–3 times a week.

• Set up a warm, padded surface.A changing pad or thick towel in a warm room (around 75°F). Keep baby wrapped, uncovering one area at a time. Hooded Towels
• Wipe top to bottom, clean to dirty.Face first with plain water (no soap near the eyes), then body, diaper area last — with a fresh corner of the washcloth for each area. Washcloths
• Keep the cord stump dry.Fold the diaper down below it and let it air out. No tugging — it falls off on its own in 1–3 weeks.
• Don't forget the folds.Neck creases, behind the ears, between fingers and toes — milk and lint love to hide there.

What to expect: Time for the infant tub! First baths may involve protest — short, warm, and calm wins. Many babies grow to love it within a few weeks.

• Use an infant tub or sink insert.Sized supports keep a floppy newborn secure. Never rely on a bath seat as a safety device — your hands are the safety device.
• Test the water before baby gets in.Wrist or elbow, or a bath thermometer: comfortably warm (98–100°F), 2–3 inches deep, water off before baby's in.
• Support head and neck the whole time.One arm behind the shoulders with your hand gripping under the far armpit — the other hand washes.
• Keep it short and warm.5–10 minutes is plenty. Pour warm water over baby's tummy during the bath to fight chills.
• Straight into a hooded towel.Head first — babies lose heat fastest through their heads. Pat dry, get into the folds, then a fresh diaper and cozy sleep & play. Hooded Towels Sleep & Plays
• Moisturize if skin is dry.A fragrance-free baby lotion right after the bath locks in moisture — and doubles as massage time.

What to expect: Once baby sits steadily, bath time becomes playtime — and the splash radius grows accordingly.

• Graduate to the big tub (carefully).A non-slip mat on the tub floor and a cushioned spout cover prevent the two most common bath injuries.
• Stay within arm's reach — always.Sitting steadily is not the same as safe alone. The never-leave rule doesn't retire; it just gets splashier.
• Add a few simple bath toys.Cups for pouring, floating toys, a rubber duck — play makes hair-washing negotiations easier. Squeeze toys fully dry after each bath to prevent mold.
• Make bath a bedtime cue.A warm bath → fresh sleep sack → feed → book is the classic wind-down. The bath literally lowers body temperature afterward, which helps trigger sleepiness. Sleep Sacks
• Wash hair last.Most babies tolerate everything better before the dreaded rinse. Lean baby back slightly and shield the eyes with your hand or a rinse cup.

What to expect: Strong opinions about water temperature, toy selection, and when bath time ends. Welcome to toddlerhood.

• Baths can go daily if you like.Toddler skin handles more frequent baths — and after a day of solid-food adventures, you may want them.
• Teach "sitting down in the tub."Standing toddlers and slippery surfaces don't mix. Make sitting the non-negotiable rule of the splash zone.
• Let them "help."A washcloth of their own builds routine buy-in — and future self-care skills. Washcloths
• Drain the tub the moment bath ends.Standing water is a hazard for a curious climber who returns to the bathroom later. Keep the bathroom door closed between baths.