NEWBORN · EVERYDAY CARE
Newborn Bath Essentials: What You Need for Baby’s First Bath
A first bath can feel like a surprisingly big moment. The reassuring bit is that a newborn needs very little: a warm room, carefully prepared water, a few basics within reach and your full attention from start to finish.
Newborn bath essentials checklist
Keep the list simple and place every item within reach before your baby is undressed.
- A baby bath, clean washing-up bowl or clean sink
- Two towels
- Cotton wool
- A clean nappy
- Clean clothes
How often should you bathe a newborn?
A newborn does not need a bath every day. The NHS says two or three baths a week should be enough, although you can bathe your baby more often if you both enjoy it.
In the first few weeks, you may prefer to top and tail your baby between baths. This means using warm water and cotton wool to wash their face, neck, hands and nappy area.
Preparing the room and water
Choose a warm room and get everything ready before you begin. Avoid bathing your baby straight after a feed or when they are hungry or tired.
- Put cold water into the bath first, then add hot water.
- Mix the water well so there are no hot patches.
- Check the water carefully with your elbow before placing your baby in it. It should feel the same as your body temperature, not hot or cold.
- Keep towels, a clean nappy and clothes close enough to reach without stepping away.
Simple NHS-based first-bath steps
- Prepare first Warm the room, prepare the bath and place everything you need within reach before undressing your baby.
- Wash face and hair Hold your baby on your knee to clean their face, then wash their hair with plain water while supporting them over the bowl.
- Remove the nappy Dry their hair gently, remove the nappy and wipe away any mess before placing them in the bath.
- Lower them in gently Use one hand to hold their upper arm and support their head and shoulders. Gently lower them into the water and keep their head clear.
- Wash with plain water Use your free hand to gently swish water over your baby without splashing. Plain water is best during the first month.
- Lift, pat dry and dress Lift your baby out, pat them dry and pay attention to the creases in their skin before putting on a clean nappy and clothes.
What parents do not need immediately
A newborn bath does not need to become a long shopping list. The NHS says plain water is best for the first month, so liquid cleansers, lotions and oils can wait. A bath thermometer, shaped bath or support may suit some families, but none replaces careful preparation, checking the water yourself or continuous adult supervision.
Important bath-safety reminder
Never leave a baby alone in the bath, even for a moment. Stay with them for the whole bath and keep them within reach.
A shaped baby bath, bath seat or support is not a safety device and does not replace adult supervision. If you have forgotten something, take your baby out of the water and bring them with you.
Frequently asked questions about newborn baths
How often does a newborn need a bath?
The NHS says a newborn usually only needs a bath two or three times a week. You can bathe them more often if you both enjoy it.
Do I need baby wash for the first bath?
No. The NHS advises that plain water is best for a baby’s skin during the first month.
How should I check the bath water?
Mix the water well, then test it carefully with your elbow before placing your baby in the bath. It should feel the same as your body temperature, not hot or cold.
Can I use a bath seat or support?
You can choose equipment that suits your setup, but a bath seat, shaped bath or support never replaces adult supervision. Stay with your baby throughout every bath.
What if I forget something during the bath?
Do not leave your baby in the water. Take them out, wrap them in a towel and bring them with you.
Watch a newborn bath demonstration
An NHS midwife demonstrates preparing the room and water, supporting baby and keeping bath time continuously supervised.
Watch the demonstration