Here’s how you can bathe a preterm baby safely

Prepare the Bath Area

Ensure warmth: Preterm babies are more susceptible to temperature changes, so make sure the room is warm ( 24°C). Fill the bath with lukewarm water (around 98.6°F or 37°C) — not hot.

Sponge bath (recommended for premature babies):

It’s safer to start with a sponge bath instead of a full immersion bath for preterm babies until their umbilical cord stump has fallen off and the baby is stable.

Support the baby’s head and neck:

Premature babies often have weaker muscles and less control over their head and neck, so always support the head and neck carefully while bathing.

Bathing Time

Keep it brief: Babies, especially preterm ones, can get cold easily, so limit bath time to around 5-10 minutes.

Frequency of Bathing

Preterm babies generally don’t need to be bathed every day. Bathing two to three times a week is often sufficient until they’re older. Sponge baths are ideal until the baby has gained enough weight and is stable enough for a regular bath.

Dry and Dress the Baby
Pat dry gently: After the bath, wrap the baby in a soft towel and pat their skin dry, being gentle to avoid irritation.

Dress in layers: Since preterm babies are less able to regulate their body temperature, dress them in layers to keep them warm. Ensure they’re not too hot or too cold.

Use our muslin bath towel to wipe the baby’s skin and swaddle your baby with our muslin swaddles and give love