Cleanser
Plain water is often enough in the first month. When using cleanser, choose a mild baby product and use a small amount.
Baby Bath & Grooming Guide
A good bath routine starts before the water. Set everything within reach, keep one hand supporting your baby, and never step away—not even for a moment.
Before undressing baby
Put every item within arm's reach
A simple supported bath
-
1
Prepare the water
Add cold water first, then hot. Mix well and test before the baby goes in. It should feel comfortably warm, not hot.
-
2
Clean face and hair
Support your baby securely. Use plain water around the face and a fresh piece of cotton or cloth for each eye.
-
3
Lower baby gently
Support the head and shoulders with one arm and hold the upper arm securely. Keep the head clear of the water.
-
4
Wash without rushing
Use your free hand to wash gently, paying attention to the neck, underarms and skin folds.
-
5
Lift and dry
Lift with a secure hold, wrap immediately and pat dry—especially inside skin folds.
Newborns do not need a daily bath. NHS guidance says two or three times a week is usually fine; gentle “top and tail” cleaning can cover the days between.
Keep early skin care uncomplicated
Towel
Pick a soft, absorbent towel large enough to wrap the baby quickly. Pat rather than rub.
Moisturiser
Ask a clinician about persistent dryness, eczema or irritation. Stop a new product if the skin reacts.
A small grooming kit is enough
Useful basics
- Soft baby brush
- Baby nail file or suitable clippers
- Soft washcloths
- Digital thermometer
- Clean storage pouch
Gentle habits
- File or trim nails when baby is calm
- Clean only the outside of ears
- Never insert cotton buds into the ear canal
- Dry behind ears and inside skin folds
- Check tools for rough or damaged edges
When to contact a clinician
Seek medical advice for fever in a young infant, breathing difficulty, unusual drowsiness, dehydration concerns, a spreading or blistering rash, infected-looking skin or cord area, or irritation that is severe or does not improve. Follow local urgent-care guidance.
Prepare the routine
Find bath and grooming essentials
Choose a few easy-to-clean tools and gentle products, then keep them together so everything is ready before bath time.
