I was scared to give my baby her first bath, but being totally prepared made it a smooth and special event! After bathing her and two newborns after her I’m a pro, but that basic set-up is still essential to newborn bathing success!

Here’s what you should have on hand as you prepare to bathe your little one in those hazy early days, and a step-by-step way to keep him sweet and clean:

For a Sponge Bath

A soft, thick towel to wrap your baby in.

Several fresh washcloths – adult or baby sized.

Cotton balls or additional fresh washcloths.

A basin of warm, clean water.

A very mild, all-natural baby soap.

An all-natural baby oil, almond, or olive oil (optional).

Fresh clothes, booties, diaper, and a hat.

For a Tub Bath

Gather together all the supplies you would need for a sponge bath, with the exception of the basin of water. For a tub bath you have several tub choices:

Take your baby into the big tub with you.

Use a special baby tub sitting inside your tub or on the counter.

Use a soft fabric reclining seat in your bathtub.

Bathe your baby in the sink.

Bathe your baby in a clean bucket or plastic container.

Now it’s time to bathe your little one!

Take off your baby’s clothes and wrap him or her in the towel.

If you’re giving a sponge bath, uncover the half of your baby you’re washing.

If you’re giving a tub bath dip your baby in the water – support your baby under the arms. Have somebody hand her to you if you’re taking her in the tub with you, and lean her back against your legs, facing you.

Put a tiny amount of soap on one washcloth and gently bathe your baby’s arms and legs, hands and feet.

Bathe his belly and then his back, being sure to get into creases under arms and in the folds of the neck.

Bathe your baby’s genitals carefully, cleaning in creases. Wash from front to back.

Get a fresh washcloth and gently wipe your baby’s face and around (not in) her ears.

Wash his head and hair gently, but don’t be afraid to wash over his soft spots.

Use a fresh washcloth or a cotton ball to wipe your baby’s eyes clean. Wipe from the inside of the eye to the outside. Use a fresh cotton ball or corner of the washcloth with each eye. Use another fresh cotton ball or wash cloth to clean around her nose if you need to.

Wrap your baby up in the thick towel to warm and dry him.

If you’d like to use an all-natural oil on your baby’s skin, now is a good time to do it. Like with the sponge bath, keep most of your baby covered while you apply the oil. Massage your baby at this time if you’d like.

Dress your little one and you’re done!

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