Quick answer
Bathe your newborn in a Blooming Bath by setting it in a clean sink or tub, filling it with about 2 inches of water at 100°F (37.8°C), and keeping one hand on your baby at all times. Wash from cleanest to dirtiest, then wrap your baby in a hooded towel immediately. The whole bath should take 5–10 minutes.
Why the Blooming Bath Works Well for Newborns
The Blooming Bath is a soft, plush flower-shaped cushion that cradles your newborn during bath time. Its petals support your baby's head and back, so you don't have to hold a slippery infant with both hands while reaching for soap. This hands-free support is especially helpful for first-time parents who feel nervous about handling a wet newborn.
Unlike a hard plastic tub, the Blooming Bath conforms to your baby's body, which can reduce crying and squirming. It fits most kitchen sinks and bathroom sinks, but always check that the sink drain is closed and that the Blooming Bath sits flat without blocking the drain completely. If your sink is too small or has a pop-up drain that won't stay closed, place the Blooming Bath in a clean, shallow plastic tub instead.
Step-by-Step: How to Bathe a Newborn in a Blooming Bath
Follow these steps in order. Each step includes a common mistake to avoid and a checkpoint to confirm you're ready to move on.
What About Bath Products and After-Bath Care?
Use a mild, fragrance-free baby wash and shampoo. You only need a drop or two—newborns aren't dirty enough to require much soap. Avoid bubble baths and essential oils, which can irritate delicate skin or cause urinary tract irritation. If your baby has dry patches, apply a fragrance-free baby moisturizer after the bath while the skin is still slightly damp.
After the bath, keep your baby warm. Have a hooded towel ready and wrap your baby immediately. Pat the skin dry rather than rubbing, especially in the neck folds and behind the ears where moisture can linger. Then dress your baby in a comfortable sleeper. For babies 12 months and older who have outgrown the Blooming Bath, a wearable blanket like the Sleeping Baby Classic Rose Pink Flying Squirrel Pajama can keep them cozy after bath time without loose blankets in the crib.
Safe Newborn Bath Steps
- Prepare the room and supplies: Set the Blooming Bath in a clean sink or tub. Fill it with about 2 inches of water at 100°F (37.8°C). Gather a hooded towel, washcloth, mild baby wash, and a fresh diaper within arm's reach. Common mistake: forgetting a towel and leaving your baby unattended to grab one. Checkpoint: Everything you need is within reach before you undress your baby.
- Test the water temperature: Use a bath thermometer or your inner wrist to check that the water is 100°F (37.8°C). Stir the water to avoid hot spots. Common mistake: assuming the water is fine because it feels warm to your hand—your hand tolerates heat differently than a newborn's skin. Checkpoint: The thermometer reads 100°F (37.8°C) or the water feels comfortably warm on your inner wrist.
- Undress and lower your baby slowly: Undress your baby, keeping a hand on them at all times. Support the head and neck with one hand and lower your baby feet-first into the Blooming Bath. Common mistake: lowering the baby too quickly, which can startle them and make them squirm. Checkpoint: Your baby's head and neck are supported, and their body is resting comfortably in the Blooming Bath.
- Wash from cleanest to dirtiest: Use a soft washcloth to wipe your baby's face with plain water first. Then wash the body with a drop of mild baby wash, and save the diaper area for last. Common mistake: washing the diaper area first and then using the same washcloth on the face. Checkpoint: You've washed the face and body before the diaper area.
- Rinse and lift out carefully: Rinse your baby with clean, warm water from a cup or your hand. Then support the head and neck and lift your baby out, placing them immediately into a hooded towel. Common mistake: letting your baby get cold while you reach for the towel. Checkpoint: Your baby is wrapped in a towel within seconds of leaving the water.
- Pat dry and dress: Pat the skin dry, paying attention to the neck folds, behind the ears, and the diaper area. Apply moisturizer if needed, then put on a fresh diaper and clothes. Common mistake: rubbing the skin dry, which can cause irritation. Checkpoint: Your baby is dry, warm, and dressed.
Product facts
- Sleeping Baby Classic Rose Pink Flying Squirrel Pajama: Sleeping Baby Classic Rose Pink Flying Squirrel Pajama doubles as a wearable blanket, has a loose fit for room to grow, and ribbed cuffs at wrists and ankles to prevent hiking up during sleep. For older babies and toddlers who have outgrown the Blooming Bath, this pajama provides warmth after bath time without the risk of loose blankets in the crib.
