Giving your newborn a bath is an important activity both for general hygiene as well as developing a soothing night time ritual. It seems babies either adore bath time, cooing in delight at the sound of running water, or absolutely abhor it, turning red in the face and resisting the process with every fiber of their little being. So what is a new parent to do when their new bundle of joy is not a lover, but instead a fighter, of tub time?



While no one likes to hear a helpless baby in distress, especially their own, the best thing you can do for your child is to remain relaxed. Rest assured this dislike of the water is a passing stage and your calm consistency during tub time will help build a bond of security and trust that will make each consecutive bath time more pleasant - and eventually even splish-splashy fun!

Minimize a newborn baby's resistance to the water by creating a womb-like atmosphere with a portable infant tub filled with warm water heated to approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Choose a draft-free spot for bathing baby and check the thermostat in the room to ensure a cozy temperature. To prevent an agitated outburst, wait to undress your baby until the bath water is drawn, washing supplies are on hand and a soft hooded towel is fluffed and ready to go.

Gradually slide your baby into the bath, using one hand to support the neck and head and the other hand to gently wash and rinse. Keep a plastic cup nearby to use as safe and practical rinsing tool, especially for the hair. If you think your infant is getting too cold, lay a wash cloth dampened in the warm bath water across his chest.

If a crying jag starts, reassure your infant with the soothing sound of your voice or even with gentle, classical music playing on a nearby radio. For an older baby, distract from his discomfort by engaging play with a soft, water-proof toy or a fresh, colorful wash cloth. Soon there will be no more fussing and bath time will be the highlight of both you and your little one's evening.

Older babies and toddlers that have graduated to the "big" tub may also occasionally turn into bath-time monsters. An easy solution to pulling the plug on this type of fussing is simply to jump into the tub alongside your child. Once you've modeled that bath time is safe and fun, your child will be ready to let you enjoy the bubbles from your new spot kneeling on the bath mat!

Allowing a toddler pick out special bath soaps and tub toys on your next shopping trip will also make tub time much more enticing. If the root problem is water or soap in the eyes, there are many baby care items on the market today designed specifically to remedy this irritation. From bath visors and goggles to tear-free soaps and irresistible water toys, there is surely something to float your baby's boat!