1 Month 2 Months 3 Months 4 Months 5 Months 6 Months 7 Months 8 Months 9 Months Birth 1 Month 2 Months 3 Months 4 Months 5 Months 6 Months 7 Months 8 Months 9 Months 10 Months 11 Months 12 Months 13 thru 18 Months 19 thru 24 Months

Bath Time Basics

Giving a newborn a bath can be a little scary for first-time moms. It gets easier with practice, but in the meantime, there are lots of tried and true tips that can help make the experience one you'll cherish. Keep in mind your baby doesn't need a bath every day, especially if you keep his face, neck and diaper area clean. Here are some other things you should know:

  • Use a plastic tub designed for newborns or a plain plastic basin or inflatable tub that fits inside the bathtub. The kitchen or bathroom sink lined with a towel or rubber mat is fine too.1

  • Get your baby's soap, washcloth, towel, clean diaper and clothes organized and within reach ahead of time so you can keep one hand on him at all times. Never leave your baby unattended in the water, even for a second. If you get interrupted, take him with you.1

  • Make sure your water heater is set at 120°F or lower to keep from scalding baby's skin. Always check the water temperature with your hand before putting him in.1

  • Use no more than two to three inches of warm water in the basin or sink.1

  • Slowly put baby in the water feet first while supporting his head and neck with your hand.2

  • Avoid putting him in the water while it's running in case the temperature changes or the water becomes too deep.2

  • Wash your baby with plain water unless he's dirty or has an odor; then use a mild moisturizing soap. Save the bubble bath and scented soap until he's older.1

  • Pour warm water over your baby's body to keep him warm during the bath.1

  • Wash your baby's hair if it seems dirty or if his scalp has scaly patches known as cradle cap.1

  • Rinse thoroughly to get rid of irritating soap residue.3

  • Your baby probably doesn't need lotion after bathing. Be sure to dry inside his folds of skin to prevent rashes.1

Sources:
1 "Baby Bath Basics: A Parent's Guide to Newborn Baths," www.mayoclinic.com, April 25, 2009
2 "Bathing Your Newborn," www.babycenter.com, November 2003
3 "Newborn Bathing Tips," www.parentingweekly.com, accessed May 26, 2009

Consult your physician or dental professional if using another fluoridated product.

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Having a new baby in the family can bring extra special meaning to the holidays, but it can also create extra tension as everyone jostles for your little one's attention. With careful planning, lots of communication and a willingness to put your new family first, your holiday can be just the way you want it.
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Weigh In

You usually know instinctively if your baby is healthy, but comparing her growth to "normal" guidelines is a good way to help put your mind at ease. Many babies grow a half inch to an inch per month between birth and six months. In that same period, babies can gain five to seven ounces per week. Between six months and a year, she'll probably grow about three-eighths inch per month and gain three to five ounces per week. It's normal for her to double her birth height and triple her birth weight by her first birthday.

Source: "Infant and Toddler Health," www.mayoclinic.com, August 21, 2009

Shoe Knew?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies don't actually need to wear shoes until they start learning to walk. Going shoeless indoors allows your infant's feet to grow normally, helps them develop strength and lets her experiment with grasping with her toes. If you want to keep her feet warm or protect them from the elements, opt for soft-soled slippers, booties or nonskid socks.