Bathing a newborn is one of those things that sounds simple—until you’re standing there, sleeves rolled up, holding a towel in your teeth, wondering how on earth you’re going to do this with only two hands. And why is the baby already crying when you haven’t even started?

First things first: you’re not doing it wrong. It’s normal to feel unsure, especially in the beginning. Your baby is tiny, slippery, and new to the world. But bath time doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be safe, gentle, and calm. Over time, it might even become something you both enjoy.

At mothercare Malaysia, we know that being a new parent comes with lots of learning curves. This guide is here to help you get through one of the most common ones, without the stress, without the fluff.

How Often Should You Bathe Your Newborn?

Here’s a comforting truth: newborns don’t need daily baths. In fact, most experts recommend bathing your baby two to three times a week during the first month. Unless they’ve had a diaper blowout or a spit-up episode, that’s plenty.

For the first week or two, you’ll want to stick to sponge baths—especially while the umbilical cord stump is still healing. After that falls off and the area looks clean and dry, you can move on to a baby tub or basin.

Your baby’s skin is delicate and can dry out easily, so go easy on soap, and don’t worry if bath time is short. It’s not about scrubbing them down. It’s just about keeping them comfortable and clean enough.

What You’ll Need Before Bath Time

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need in arm’s reach. Once your baby is in the bath, you won’t be able to step away.

Here’s what to grab:

• A hooded baby towel or a soft cotton towel

• Mild baby wash or cleanser

• A clean washcloth

• A small tub or basin

• A cup or plastic jug for rinsing

• A fresh diaper and clean clothes

• Optional: baby lotion or oil, if their skin is dry

Some parents like to use a sponge insert or a bath support to keep the baby from sliding around. Totally up to you. What matters most is that the setup feels safe, simple, and stress-free.

Getting the Bath Space Ready

Pick a warm room where you won’t be rushed. The bathroom works, but a bedroom with a baby tub on a table or changing station is just as good.

Fill the basin with a few inches of warm water—roughly 37°C. That’s body temperature. You can test it with your elbow or wrist. If it feels just slightly warm, it’s right.

Put a towel or washcloth at the bottom of the tub to help keep things from getting too slippery. Turn off the fan or air-conditioning, and make sure there’s no draft. Babies lose heat fast, and a shiver can turn an okay bath into a disaster.

Step-by-Step: How to Give a Safe Newborn Bath

Sponge Bath (Before the Umbilical Stump Falls Off)

1. Undress your baby and lay them on a soft towel.

2. Keep them wrapped and uncover only the part you’re cleaning.

3. Use a warm, damp washcloth to wipe their face and neck.

4. Clean under the arms, behind the ears, and around the creases.

5. Save the diaper area for last with a clean part of the cloth.

6. Gently pat dry with a soft towel and dress them right away.

Tub Bath (After the Stump is Gone)

1. Undress your baby and gently lower them into the tub, feet first.

2. Support their head and neck with one hand.

3. Use your free hand to pour warm water over their body.

4. Wipe them down gently with a soft washcloth.

5. Shampooing isn’t necessary more than once or twice a week.

6. After washing, lift them out carefully and wrap them in a warm towel.

Take your time. Talk to your baby. Smile, even if they cry. You’re building trust—and learning too.

What If They Cry?

Honestly? Many babies do. Sometimes it’s because they’re cold. Sometimes they just don’t like the feeling of water. It doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong.

If your baby cries during a bath:

• Try keeping a warm cloth over their belly to help them feel secure.

• Speak in a calm, soothing voice.

• Keep baths short in the beginning—five minutes is enough.

Some babies cry every single time. Others start to enjoy it after a few tries. Either way, your job is to stay calm and help them feel safe.

Tips to Make Bath Time Easier (for Both of You)

• Play soft music or hum a lullaby.

• Don’t stress about washing every inch, especially not every day.

• Make eye contact. Smile. Let them hear your voice.

Bath time can be a sweet moment if you don’t rush it, even if it’s messy, even if it ends in tears. What matters is that you’re there, gently showing your baby the world.

When to Start Using the Baby Tub

Once the umbilical cord stump has fallen off and the area has healed completely—usually within 10 to 14 days—it’s safe to switch to tub baths. Look for a clean, dry belly button with no signs of redness or discharge.

The first few tub baths might be quick. That’s okay. Let your baby adjust. You’re adjusting, too.

Bath Safety Basics You Should Always Follow

• Never leave your baby alone during bath time—not even for a moment.

• Always check the water temperature before putting them in.

• Keep a firm grip. Babies can be wriggly when wet.

• Dry thoroughly, especially in the folds of the neck, thighs, and arms.

• Use gentle, fragrance-free products.

It’s normal to feel unsure at first, even if you have it down in theory. You don’t have to figure it all out in one go.

Bonus: Find What Works for You

Some families do bath time in the morning. Others before bed. Some babies love it; some don’t. There’s no right schedule. There’s just what works for your baby and your routine.

Try different times of day. See how your baby responds. If one approach doesn’t work, try another. There’s no formula—just flexibility and a little patience.

Final Thoughts

You won’t always feel confident. That’s okay. Confidence comes after practice, and you’re already on your way there.

The first bath might feel clumsy. The second might end in tears (yours or the baby’s). But the third might go better. And soon, you’ll find your own way of doing it.

Bath time is just another part of parenting where love shows up in the small things: a warm towel, a gentle rinse, a steady hand.

When you’re ready to stock up on safe, gentle bath essentials—from soft towels to newborn-safe cleansers—mothercare Malaysia is here for you.

Shop our babycare and bath selection here.