Baby’s bath time: family cuddles

October 23, 2024|Lucia Trapassi

Il bagnetto del neonato: coccole in famiglia

⏱ Reading time: 5 minutes

A baby's bath is one of the most delicate and special moments in the daily routine. Many parents wonder when to do it, how often, and how to make it a peaceful experience: in this guide, discover how to turn it into a moment of cuddles and connection.

Why bathing is important for your baby

Bathing is not just a time dedicated to cleaning🛁, but an opportunity to strengthen the bond with our children, creating memories that will last over time.

Every baby's first bath is often characterized by two elements that, I imagine, unite almost all new parents: a camera or cell phone to capture the moment and a good dose of fears and uncertainties. “Are we holding them the right way? Is the water the right temperature? Will they feel cold?”. These are common questions we have all asked ourselves, me first of all.

I remember well that feeling of insecurity you experience the first few times. It's normal to feel a bit clumsy; with a little one in your hands, bathing can seem like a task that is at least... slippery! But believe me, with time and practice, that moment will become one of the most beautiful, not only for your baby, but also for you.

So I thought I would share my personal experience here, hoping it can be of help to you. While I was expecting my first daughter, I read a lot about the subject and became convinced that a bedtime routine that included bathing was essential. Over time and with the experience gained from the arrival of two other daughters, I have learned that bathing is a moment of cuddles and relaxation, that can and should be experienced peacefully, without pressure. I hope that reading these lines can help you make this moment more pleasant and strengthen the bond with your little one 💕, remembering that every gesture is an opportunity to connect and that there are no rules set in stone.

When to bathe your baby

moment of connection between parent and baby during bath time

There is no "perfect" time for bathing🕒, but it is important to choose one in which you all have time to enjoy a relaxing break. Bathing should be an opportunity to cuddle each other, without rushing.

In addition, every child is different: some relax with bathing, while others get active, making it harder, for example, to fall asleep. If your little one gets restless after a bath, you can try bathing them in the morning or after a nap, and not necessarily include it in the evening routine as is often said. Little by little you will discover what is the ideal time to bathe your little one.

How often to bathe your baby

Infographic on baby bathing

Opinions on this topic vary widely: some recommend every other day, some suggest 2-3 times a week, and others, instead, argue that it is better to do it daily. Pediatricians indicate that it is not necessary to bathe your baby every day, since their skin is particularly delicate and risks becoming dry and irritated.

That said, it depends on your needs and your baby's: if bathing becomes a relaxing moment and you want to turn it into an evening routine, simply avoid using detergents every time. Even the gentlest products can alter the hydrolipidic film that protects our little ones' skin. Lukewarm water and a soft sponge will be enough to cuddle your little one. If your baby does not really like water, you can easily reduce the frequency to every 2-3 days so as not to stress them out too much. The important thing is that bathing is a pleasant and low-stress moment, neither for the baby nor for you.

Personally, I adopted the bathing every 2-3 days approach, partly because, practically speaking, it was too demanding with three little girls. It was stressful for us, but also for them, who did not receive the right attention... and a moment that was supposed to be magical looked more like an assembly line. In addition, during the first two years of life (or as long as they wear diapers), children are washed very often during the day: both during changes and after meals. Not to mention the little hands that, personally, I continue to clean 200 times a day, even now that they are older! Washing the skin too often can make it even drier and more permeable, since in the first two years of life it is immature, thinner, and therefore more delicate.

What you need for baby's bath

To make the moment even more pleasant, make sure you have everything at hand:

- Bath tub or support
- Sponge and thermometer for the water
- Gentle detergent
- Muslin or soft towel in natural cotton
- Diaper and clean change

My advice? A few things, but of quality: truly gentle and safe detergents, sea sponge and natural fabrics to dry, babies' skin needs a lot of gentleness.

Frequently Asked Questions about Baby Bathing

How often to bathe your baby?

It is not necessary to do it every day: in many cases 2-3 times a week are enough, respecting the delicacy of the skin.

What is the ideal water temperature?

The water should be lukewarm, around 36-37°C, to ensure comfort and safety.

Does bathing help with sleep?

It depends on the child: some relax, others get active. It is important to observe their reactions.

A Final Thought

how to bathe your baby safely

Bathing represents a precious moment of connection with your baby. Choosing the right time and establishing an appropriate routine will help you make this experience more peaceful and pleasant. And remember, bathing is not just a moment of hygiene, but an opportunity to cuddle and strengthen the bond with your little one.

With all my love. 💖

Lucia