Hands up if you freaked out the first time you bathed your baby by yourself. What a coincidence! ME TOO! Our experience *may* have included Ryder peeing all over my chest as I cradled him. And sputtering the equivalent of baby obscenities as I poured water over his head. And screaming bloody murder as I tried to towel dry his tiny body. In fact, it’s best that I put the memory out of my mind completely.
Then again, it’s not like Ryder let the hospital nurse off the hook either –
Hahaha! True story, I just told Ryder that this is the same bowl we now eat popcorn in (it isn’t). I’m sure I’ve put him off popcorn for life. But seriously, is that really what 6 lbs 13 oz looks like? So tiny!!
Obviously, learning to bathe your baby can be a little scary – there’s a lot to juggle and of course you want to keep your little one safe. But as long you’re properly prepared, bath time can be a great bonding experience and a whole lot of fun! Disney Baby has some great tips on how to protect and pamper your little one in the tub, and some adorable products to help you to do it! From towels and toys to cleansers and creams, Disney Baby has you covered.
Tip #1: Start small. Your baby is little, so his bathtub should be too! When you start bathing a baby, it’s easier to do it in the sink, or using a small plastic tub. That way, you won’t have to kneel or lean awkwardly over the side of a big bath while keeping your baby upright. Some baby tubs, like this adorable Winnie the Pooh one, feature built-in toys, ensuring that bath time is fun for everyone.
Tip #2: Get some tub toys. For older babies, the bath can be a great place to learn and explore. Once your little one has graduated to a big tub, introduce them to some squirt toys, fun floaties or sponges. Disney Baby has a great selection of these, featuring characters like Nemo and Friends. Toys can keep your baby distracted and happy, helping make bath time a breeze.
Tip #3: Ditch the daily dips. Babies don’t need to bathe everyday – in fact, daily baths can dry out or damage your little one’s skin. It only takes two or three baths a week to ensure that baby stays squeaky-clean, as long as you stay vigilant about keeping face, hands and diaper area clean between washes. These Finding Nemo washcloths are the perfect way to keep baby fresh between bath times.
Tip #4: Lock in that moisture. If your baby does have dry skin, rub on a little moisturizing lotion, cream or oil post bath. There are plenty of products out there that both you and your baby can use!
Tip #5: Keep baby warm. Wet babies can become easily chilled, so throughout bath time it’s important to keep your little one warm. Ensure that bath water is around 37 degrees and that the air in the bathroom is comfortably warm as well. After the bath, wrap baby up in a soft, clean towel and give him a little snuggle! A Winnie the Pooh Bathtime Wrap keeps baby feeling cozy and looking cute.
Were you nervous about bathing your baby for the first time? Do tell!