Baby Bathing: Tips and Tricks for a Safe and Soothing Experience

Baby bathing is a special moment for you and your baby—a time filled with gentle touches, soothing sounds, and the sweet scent of a freshly bathed newborn.

But for many new parents, the thought of bathing their baby can also bring excitement and anxiety. How do you make sure the water is just right? What’s the safest way to hold your little one? And how can you turn bath time into a calm and enjoyable experience, rather than a stressful one?

We decided to support you in this memorable journey, easing fears about bathing your baby and helping you turn bath time into a carefree and enjoyable experience filled with love, play, and bonding.

Preparing for Baby's Bath

Proper preparation is key to a smooth and stress-free bathing experience for you and your baby. Before you begin, ensure that everything you need is within arm’s reach and that the bathing environment is calm and safe.

The most important aspects of baby bathing that you need to pay attention to are:

Preparing the Bathing Room

In the first few months, many of us choose to bathe the baby in a bedroom, whether it’s the baby’s room or our own, which makes sense since the bathroom can feel too small and challenging for both parents. The key is ensuring the room has the right temperature—not too cold or warm. Also, ensure everything you need for the bath is within easy reach, and you know exactly where you'll place the baby after the bath. Good organization and knowing your next step can prevent unwanted moments during bath time. If you think it might help, you can play gentle music in the room to help you and your baby relax.

Bath Water

Another common concern for parents is the temperature of the bath water. It's important to test the water temperature before starting the bath by dipping your hand in it. If it’s easier, you can measure the temperature with a thermometer—it should be between 35°C and 37°C (95°F to 98.6°F). As babies grow, they begin to enjoy bath time more, which can make the bath last longer. To ensure the water stays warm, you can add more warm water to the existing water as needed.

Timing the Bath

Another question parents often have is when is the best time of day to bathe the baby. It is important to understand that babies love routine, so it’s best to bathe them at the same time each day, regardless of how often you bathe them in a week. Bathing in the evening is common, as it helps relax the baby and prepares them for sleep. Try to avoid bathing your baby when they’re hungry, as they’ll likely be fussy. Likewise, if your baby tends to spit up or if you’re still bathing them while holding them, avoid bathing immediately after feeding. As your baby grows and becomes more active, you may bathe them more frequently, even during the day. How long bath time should last depends on your baby’s age and how well they adapt to it, but it’s best not to bathe babies under one year old for more than 10 minutes.

Bathing Essentials

Regarding bathing equipment, you’ll need a baby bathtub, preferably with a stand to make it easier for new moms. You’ll also need a container or jug to pour and rinse water, and you may want to use bath support for the tub, although babies outgrow these quickly. Of course, baby towels with hoods are ideal because they make drying easier and provide a sense of coziness that babies love. You can use gentle sponges or terry cloth gloves for the first baths, but pay attention to how your baby reacts to them, as your touch may be more comforting. Choose mild bath products, such as a gentle body and hair wash on baby skin.

Overcoming Resistance to Bathing

Bath time should be a carefree and enjoyable experience, but sometimes you may encounter resistance, tears, or fussiness. Respond to this with gentleness and calming techniques. You can sing during the bath or play soothing music. After the bath, wrap your baby snugly in a warm towel and hold them in your arms, gently rocking them. Try not to rush through this small ritual, and never bathe your baby if either of you is feeling stressed or anxious. Make eye contact with your baby during the bath, smile, and talk to them if possible. Later, when your baby is old enough to sit up, you can introduce a bath toy to entertain them. Avoid using too many foamy products, as they can sometimes irritate the baby’s eyes, even if labeled tear-free. The same goes for water getting on their face—find a position where the baby’s head is tilted downward so water doesn’t get in their eyes, nose, or mouth.

Remember that the bathing ritual can be extended with a baby massage afterward. Gentle touch helps your baby relax and strengthens the bond with you.

Choosing Baby Bathing Products

Bathing your baby is a hygiene practice and a way to care for its skin. Therefore, selecting the right bathing and skincare products requires special attention.

A baby’s skin, especially newborn, is extremely delicate, prone to reactions, and absorbs most of what is applied. Because of this, it’s best to choose products free of harsh chemicals and opt for natural cosmetics. Natural products specifically formulated for babies provide the gentleness and safety you need, ensuring you’ve made the right choice regarding caring for your baby during bath time.

Baby Bathing Set

One such option is the Baby Boo product line, created by two moms who wanted to offer the best possible care for babies, children, and adults alike.

For baby baths, Baby Boo offers an oil-based Body and hair bath with organic ingredients made from cottonseed oil. This gentle and mild formula nourishes and protects your baby’s skin with jojoba oil, chamomile, and almond oil. These organic ingredients work together to hydrate, soothe, and protect the delicate skin of babies and young children. The wash is suitable for both body and hair, making it an ideal choice for babies with hair, as it simplifies bath time by providing all-in-one care for skin and hair.

After bathing, you can continue caring for your baby’s skin with a natural massage oil. Baby Boo's sweet almond oil is a blend of oils that support the skin’s natural properties, helping it remain healthy as your baby grows. If your baby needs extra hydration after the bath, you can use a body lotion made with shea butter, which strengthens the skin’s barrier function and protects it from external factors. Manuka honey helps regenerate the skin, while cottonseed oil prevents dryness and, along with almond oil, maintains the skin’s natural moisture.

All Baby Boo products are free from parabens, artificial colors, silicones, mineral oils (paraffin), and allergens, making them the top choice for moms when it comes to baby and child skincare.

You can find all our natural products for your baby's bath in our online shop.