Dr. Tonia Cox, CHI Memorial Pediatric Diagnostic Associates; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical SocietyQ: How often do I need to bathe my baby to keep her clean and healthy?
A: Newborn skin is quite permeable, meaning babies can absorb many of the ingredients of topical cleansers and lotions. I advise that newborns have an occasional sponge bath with warm water, ensuring that their umbilical cord be kept dry until it falls off and heals completely. After that, a bath with warm water and hypo-allergenic fragrance-free gentle cleanser should be considered every few days. Make sure to keep your daughter warm during and after her baths. Starting around 1 month of age, I recommend a nightly bath, most nights in just warm water, and using cleanser one to two days a week. Submersion in warm water is relaxing for young and old alike and is an important part of a good bedtime routine. If you bathe your daughter nightly, you should apply a light moisturizer, such as coconut oil or Cetaphil lotion, again ensuring it is hypo-allergenic and fragrance free.
– Dr. Tonia Cox, CHI Memorial Pediatric Diagnostic Associates; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society