Chapter 4 – The Magical Moment of Bath Time

Bath time is much more than a hygiene and routine activity. Usually, contact with water is, above all, a pleasure—an opportunity for relaxation, a true wellness ritual, in which the baby rediscovers the sensations felt in the mother’s womb, suspended in the warmth of amniotic fluid. Accompanied by the reassuring touch of mom and dad, bath time stimulates the baby to explore the environment and different parts of their body, gradually developing awareness. It is also a moment of play and cuddles with parents, rich in emotions and sensory experiences.

However, not all babies feel comfortable in the water, especially in the first few weeks. Sometimes the baby might cry and stiffen up: this could mean they’re not yet ready, they feel cold, or they simply perceive a bit of insecurity from the person holding them.

Bath time should be a pleasant and relaxing routine. If there is tension or worry, the baby will sense it. Therefore, to ensure everyone feels comfortable, it’s important to be prepared and organized — and above all, to approach the moment with calmness.

First of all, you should choose the equipment most suited to your home environment. There are several solutions available on the market. The most classic include changing tables with padded, foldable tops and an integrated tub. This two-in-one concept can also be found in lighter, foldable models that can be placed in the bathroom over the toilet. Those who prefer to separate the bath moment from diaper changes can opt for a small tub to place over the bathtub or shower tray, equipped with elevation supports, and then move to the changing table with the baby well wrapped in a towel. Alternatively, there are accessories/supports (some even float) that allow direct use of the bathtub. Another option is vertical bucket-shaped tubs that allow the baby to stay in a familiar position, though they don’t offer easy access to all body parts. Lastly, there are foldable or inflatable tubs, ideal for travel.

Next, the environment should be prepared by ensuring soft lighting, a comfortable temperature—at least 22°C — and pleasantly warm water, around 37°C. The temperature should always be checked by dipping in your elbow or, better yet, using a specific thermometer.

To prepare the baby for contact with water, it can be helpful to speak in a calm voice, explain what is happening, smile, and maintain close eye contact.

During the bath, the parent’s hold should be secure and relaxed, especially in the first months when the baby is lying down. The baby’s neck and head must always be supported, and supervision must be continuous to avoid the risk of slipping into the water. The adult’s movements should be slow and gentle to avoid splashes of water or soap that might bother the baby and spoil the magic of the moment.

Before starting, it is essential to have everything within reach: cleanser, sponge, a few toys, and the towel, to wrap the baby up immediately after the bath and make them feel protected and warm. After moving to the changing table, it’s important to pat the baby dry with a sponge, paying special attention to the skin folds.

There is no ideal time of day for the bath, although experience suggests that evening is the best moment, as it helps the baby relax and fall asleep more easily.

From a hygiene point of view, bathing should not be done every day. Until the baby starts getting truly dirty—crawling around and eating solid food—daily bathing is unnecessary and may dry out their skin. It is recommended to bathe them 1-2 times a week; during hotter and more humid weather, the frequency can be increased and rice starch used to refresh the baby.

For daily hygiene, it’s enough to clean during diaper changes and to wash the baby’s face, neck, and hands as needed, paying special attention to the folds.