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Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and therefore cannot prescribe, treat, or diagnose. I’m a mom and health coach sharing my knowledge and experiences for educational purposes. This does not take the place of any professional medical advice.
Bathing your baby can be a special part of the day. A calming bedtime ritual that signals the transition from a day of exploration to a cozy night of rest. But is there a medical basis to bathe your newborn every day?
Bath time is a time for skin care, bonding through touch, and establishing a bedtime routine. Skin care is especially important for your baby’s delicate and developing skin. It’s the first line of defense, and a gentle bath can help maintain its health and cleanliness. A nightly bath also sets the stage for sleep, helping baby understand that the rituals together signify the end of the day.
However, there is always another perspective, and concerns over daily bathing inevitably surface. Over-cleansing might strip away natural oils, which could make your baby’s skin dry and irritated. Are we potentially damaging a baby’s soft skin in our pursuit of hygiene and routine?
Pediatricians generally agree that daily bathing isn’t necessary for newborns. The frequency of bathing can be reduced to a few times a week, and a daily wipe down on non-bath days can help maintain a hygienic balance. Bath time can totally be part of a cozy bedtime routine that sticks to a schedule. That being said, there’s no actual need to hop in the tub every single day!
When it does come to bath time, safety is super important. A few inches of warm—not hot—water, a gentle touch, and safe bathing products are key. Experts recommend that the baby’s body temperature be slightly warmer than the water’s. Make sure you’ve got all the safety stuff covered – bath seats (or non-slip mats as Baby outgrows the seat), gentle baby soap, never leaving your little one alone, and checking that everything is child-safe (like having a spout cover). That’s the key to a cozy and secure bath time.
After patting your baby dry, get ready for the massage. This can be an extension of the bath, an intimate time when you can softly connect through touch. Seal in the moisture with a baby-safe lotion, and voila—your little one is clean and prepped for a cozy bedtime. You may even include the I Love You Baby massage into your daily practice.
So, do you really need to give your baby a bath every single night? Well, it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. It all comes down to what works best for your little one’s skin, the world around them, and of course, your gut feeling as a parent.
Consulting with your pediatrician, following best bath time practices, and listening to your baby’s cues are steps in the right direction. Ultimately, bath time, regardless of frequency, should be a pleasurable and safe experience for both you and your little one.
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xo, Mary