Bathing Newborn Checklist
Table of Contents
Bathing Basics
Only bathe newborns a few times a week at most
Bathing too often can irritate delicate newborn skin.
Wait until baby's umbilical cord falls off.
Sponge baths are best in the beginning.
Only use mild, baby-safe soap.
Keep the room warm while bathing your baby
Always keep one hand on your baby
If bathing on a changing table, use the safety strap as well.
Baby Bath Items
A shallow plastic basin to hold the water
Soft blanket, towel, or changing mat
Mild baby-safe shampoo
Mild moisturizing soap
Soft washcloth
Soft towel for drying, preferably with a built-in hood
Cotton balls
Baby wipes
Clean diaper
Change of clothes
Bathing Your Baby
Fill the plastic basin with warm water.
Test to make sure it's not too warm
Lay the towel, mat, or blanket next to the basin.
Undress baby and wrap her/him in a towel
Lay baby on the prepared blanket or mat.
Soak the washcloth, and wring out excess water.
Wipe your baby's face gently (no need to use soap here).
Gently clean baby's eyelids with a damp cotton ball or clean cotton cloth.
Use the wet washcloth to clean your baby's body
Only use a little moisturizing soap, and only if baby is smelly or dirty.
Be sure to gently clean creases under the arms, behind baby's ears, around the neck and diaper region
Also clean between fingers and toes.
Only expose the parts of baby's skin that you're washing, to keep your baby warm.
When finished, wrap your baby snugly in the towel
Ensure baby is dry before putting on fresh diaper and clothing.
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Details
Who it's for
This Bathing Newborn Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your Bathing Newborn essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven Bathing Newborn structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this Bathing Newborn Checklist
- Save Bathing Newborn Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Bathing Newborn (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.