Last reviewed: November 6, 2026. Checked against current guidance from Mayo Clinic, Cincinnati Children’s, Cleveland Clinic, the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Becoming a parent is not an easy job, but it feels all worth it when you experience all the “firsts” with the new family member. One of the moments that is truly treasured and increases the bond between a parent with their newborn is bathing time.
The biggest anxiety factor that comes with bathing a newborn is how to bathe them when they still have the umbilical cord attached. Read on further below to find out how often you can give a bath to a baby with an umbilical cord and how it should be done.
When Should Be the Newborn Baby’s First Bath?
There aren’t any fixed days about when the baby should receive the first bath. You can schedule the bathing time according to your own preference, ensuring that you take out time and are not in a hurry.
However, the World Health Organization recommends waiting at least 24 hours after birth before the first bath, if possible. The reasons for this include:
- Vernix: Babies are covered in a substance called vernix when they are born. This is a waxy layer on the skin that naturally protects the baby from infections and germs, along with acting as a moisturizer.
- Regulating body temperature: Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature very well. A bath soon after birth can make them cold, which can also affect their blood sugar.
- Skin to Skin Contact: Having the skin to skin contact between the mother and her baby is extremely important. It’s better not to take away the baby for an early bath as it’ll also help with successful breastfeeding.
How to Bathe A Newborn Baby with Umbilical cord?
The umbilical cord is a tube-like structure that creates a link between the mother and baby during pregnancy. Through this, oxygen and waste materials are transferred back and forth. Once the baby is delivered, the stump of the umbilical cord remains on the baby and typically dries and falls off on its own in about two to three weeks.
When it comes to bathing babies with their umbilical cord attached, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends sponge baths only. Do not use the bathtub to wash the newborn until or unless the umbilical cord has fallen and healed.
Since newborns don’t get dirty as such, you don’t need to bathe them every day. About three times a week is usually enough. Bathing too often can make their skin dry and irritated.
Things You Need to Give Newborns A Sponge Bath
Before you start cleaning the baby, make sure you have everything you need before hand. Some of the things you’ll require when giving the bath include:
- A large towel
- Washcloth
- Mild baby soap
- Bowl of warm water
- Diaper
- A fresh set of clothes
How to Give A Sponge Bath to A Newborn Baby?
Once you’ve got your bath items in place, it’s time to bathe the baby.
It’s important that you remain calm as the baby can feel your energy as well. All you’ve got to do is follow the simple steps to give a safe sponge bath to your newborn. Never leave your baby alone during a bath, even for a moment. Use water that is warm, not hot, around 100°F (38°C), and test it with your wrist or elbow first.
- Babies like to be cozy, so it would be preferable if the room you will bathe them in is a bit warm so they don’t feel cold once their clothes are off.
- Put the baby down on the large towel and cover them.
- Only expose the baby one part at a time by unwrapping the towel on areas that require washing.
- Dip the washcloth in warm water, then start cleaning the top of the newborn’s head then, ears, neck folds, and chin
- Now add in a few drops of soap and wipe the rest of the body apart from the umbilical cord area.
- Use a baby towel to dry the baby, especially the skin folds.
- Once dried, put on the diaper and a new set of clothes.
When bathing, make sure you support the neck and head of the baby. Do not let water touch the umbilical area, and if, in any case, it does get wet, dry it off straight away.
How to Care for The Umbilical Cord
Until the umbilical cord falls off, keep it clean and dry to help prevent infection. Fold the top of the diaper down so it doesn’t cover the stump. If the base gets dirty, you can use a cotton bud lightly moistened with plain warm water to wipe it, then dry it with the other side of the swab. Let the stump fall off on its own, and don’t pull on it.
Even though it’s not as common, the warning signs of an infected umbilical cord include:
- Foul Smell
- Redness
- Yellow Discharge
- Warmth or tenderness of the skin around the belly button
If you notice any of this, call your baby’s doctor right away. If your baby is younger than 3 months and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, call the doctor right away too.
This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Always contact your pediatrician with questions about your baby’s health.
4 Sources
Newborn Stages uses trusted sources, including government health agencies, children’s hospitals and pediatric organizations, to support the facts in our articles. Read our editorial policy to learn how we research, fact-check and keep our content accurate.
- Mayo Clinic. Baby bath basics: A parent’s guide.
- Cincinnati Children’s. Umbilical Cord Care.
- Cleveland Clinic. Newborn’s First Bath: The Benefits of Waiting.
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org. Fever: When to Call the Pediatrician.
