Splish Splash: Keeping Baby Clean

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Some babies love bath time. They giggle, coo, splash, kick, and generally enjoy the water. Other babies do not like it so much. They cry, squirm, and fight the entire process. The best way to achieve bath time bliss is preparation.
Gradual start
Some babies do not enjoy new experiences and need to ease into the tub slowly. Start with a sponge bath so your baby can get used to the feeling of the water, then move to a small bathtub with only a little water so she can get used to the new environment.
Size
A big bathtub may be frightening to a baby who’s used to more confined spaces such as an infant seat or cot. Use a smaller tub to begin with, so your baby feels more secure. A smaller tub makes handling your baby easier, too
Temperature
Make sure the water temperature is comfortable for your baby. Water that is slightly warmer than room temperature is usually okay. Check the temperature occasionally to make sure it is still comfortable.
Security
Babies who do not like the bath may feel insecure in a slippery tub. Hold your unsure baby firmly to keep her from slipping around in the water and to make her feel secure.
Safety
Never ever leave your baby unattended in the bath-not even for a second. She can drown in less than a couple of centimeters of water.
Prevention
Turn your hot water service down to 49 degree Celsius or lower. If the hot water tap is accidentally bumped, your baby will not be scalded.
Frequency
You do not need to give your baby a bath every day, especially if she does not like it yet. Every other day or twice a week is fine in the beginning. Your baby’s skin is tender and does not get very dirty. Just make sure to keep the nappy area clean.
Enjoyment
Bathing your baby is a wonderful way to enhance your bond. Although the primary purpose is cleaning your baby, bath time can soothe and unsettled baby, calm a cranky baby, and relax a wakeful baby enough to get her to sleep.