Your Ultimate Guide to Baby Bath Essentials

We’ve all seen those cute pictures of babies playing in their tubs, covered with soapy suds. For new parents, this may seem like a fun time to spend with their babies, and it certainly is! However, it is also fraught with anxiety, as parents wonder how to manage a slippery baby in a bathroom during baby bath. 

Well, first-time parent anxiety is something that needs to be resolved on your own, but we can help you along the way! By getting together all the list of things you’ll need for a baby’s bath, you’ll be much more relaxed, which means the baby will be happy too. Babies always sense what their parents feel!

As soon as a baby is born, they need to be washed just a few times a week, and as they grow older, they may need to be bathed every day. Babies can be bathed at any time during the day, although many parents prefer the time before bed as it helps babies sleep better. Whatever time you choose, make sure you have these bath time essentials ready and on hand so you don’t find yourself missing things in the bathroom!

Your Ultimate Guide to Baby Bath Essentials

Bath Tub

The first thing you need is a place to bathe your baby – a tub! It’s safer to bathe your baby in a tub instead of the bathroom sink. For younger babies, it’s good to get a tub that’s got a slight angle, which will keep the baby comfortable and make it easier for you. Get a tub that’s made of strong plastic so it will last many bath times. Never, ever leave your baby alone in the tub.

Bath Mat

Many parents don’t consider a bath mat as essential as a tub, but those who’ve used it will attest to its benefits, especially first-time parents. A bath mat is an anti-slip mat that’ll prevent the baby from slipping in the tub. They’re usually made of PVC and have tight suction. Be sure to buy a mat that’s made of safe material and does not contain harmful substances like BPA or latex. In addition, drainage holes will ensure it doesn’t collect water. 

Rinsing Mug

Most of us think that a mug is unnecessary for baby since they’re in a tub. However, even if you have a hand shower, it’s still helpful to have a separate rinsing mug for the baby. It helps wash off the soap from every part of the body, and you can also prevent water from entering certain parts, like baby’s ears or the healing umbilical cord. 

Baby Oil

Baby oil is a part of this list not because you apply oil during the bath – but because you need it beforehand. Most Indian parents (and grandparents) prefer giving their babies a good massage before a warm bath, and it helps babies sleep soundly and deeply. Be sure to use good quality oils for this purpose, formulated for use on babies. Some good options are the Mamaearth Soothing Massage Oil and the Mamaearth Baby Hair Oil, specifically meant for baby hair.

Body Wash 

This is usually the first thing parents look for baby’s health and fitness when gathering supplies for the baby’s bath time. There are many options out there to choose from, and it can be quite overwhelming. Here are a few tips for choosing the right body wash – it should be fragrance-free, suitable for body and hair, and free from chemicals. Go for body washes made from natural ingredients like aloe, oats, coconut oil, and milk, like the Mamaearth Deeply Nourishing Body Wash or the Mamaearth Soft Body Wash. You can also try a soap-free bar like the Mamaearth Nourishing Bathing Bar.

Baby Shampoo

When your baby is still in the newborn stage, a body wash will also serve the purpose of shampoo, but as your baby grows older, you can introduce a baby shampoo into her bath time routine. As with the body wash, go for a shampoo with natural ingredients and one that is free from fragrance and harmful chemicals. Remember, what your parents used for you may not necessarily be right for your baby, so choose wisely. Our top picks include the Mamaearth Gentle Cleansing Shampoo and the Mamaearth Milky Soft Shampoo.

Washcloth

Water and a gentle body wash are good enough for a basic clean-up, but using a washcloth can help you take the cleansing to a deeper level. Loofahs or scrubbing brushes can be too harsh for a baby’s skin, which is why a soft washcloth is perfect. It helps gently scrub in between skin folds and rolls and removes any trapped dirt. Buy a soft, cotton washcloth that is not abrasive or too harsh for baby skin.

Hooded Baby Towel

You need a baby towel ready to receive the baby after the bath, and a hooded one works best. The hooded towels ensure that baby’s head is dried quickly after the bath, and it also makes it easier to wrap the baby up in it, which will keep her warm and comfortable since babies will feel cold when they are lifted out of their bathwater. Buy a very soft, absorbent towel and preferably made from organic material.

Soft Brush

No, this brush isn’t for setting the baby’s hair into a cute hairstyle – it’s for cradle cap. The cradle cap appears as scaly or crusty patches on the scalp and is seen in newborns. It is generally harmless and goes away on its own, but you can help it along by gently brushing it. Using a soft brush when the baby’s head is wet makes it easier to get rid of the cradle cap. Remember to be gentle and not to scrub too aggressively.

Bath Toys

Some babies love bath time – some babies not so much! Make bath time a fun time to look forward to by including some cute bath toys. Simple stacking cups work well as babies fill and empty the cups in the tub. You can also get some yellow duckies or other floating toys. You also get waterproof bath books that the baby can enjoy during her bath. Playing in the tub and experimenting with toys also encourages brain development in young children.

Bath Organizer

So, we’ve listed out a lot of bath time essentials – now you need to keep them organized! You need to be very careful when bathing a baby since there are many hazards in the bathroom. The biggest mistake parents make is leaving their baby in the bath while they get something. Avoid doing this by ensuring all your supplies are properly organized and easily accessible in the bathroom itself. You can use a hanging rack or organizer to store all these items or have a caddy with only baby things that you can carry into the bathroom during bath time.

Baby Bath Safety Tips

• Make sure the bathroom is not too cold – you can close the windows if it’s windy
• Gather all the things you’ll need after the bath and lay them out on the changing table or bed
• Get all the items you’ll need for the bath and place them in an accessible position 
• NEVER leave baby alone in the tub, not even for a second
• If you need to leave the bathroom, carry your baby with you
• Keep baby covered with a towel at all times when not in the water
• Make sure the water is of the right temperature, either with a bath thermometer or by dipping your elbow

This is your ultimate guide to baby bath essentials! Ensure that all the products you use for your baby’s bath time are toxin-free and natural. One such brand that ensures that your baby gets the best of natural care is Mamaearth. Their baby care range is safe and gentle for your baby as they are MadeSafe Certified. Your baby deserves nothing but the best; make the bathing experience a delight for your little one.