What is best for bathing a baby?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
It is recommended to use baby-specific tear-free shampoo, gentle body wash, soft cotton towels, slip-resistant safety bathtubs, and natural moisturizers when bathing infants. These products are suitable for a baby's delicate skin and can reduce irritation and safety risks. If the infant develops skin redness, swelling, itching, or allergic reactions after use, medical attention is advised promptly.
It is recommended to use baby-specific tear-free shampoo, gentle body wash, soft pure cotton bath towels, slip-resistant safety bathtubs, and natural moisturizers when bathing infants. These products are specially formulated for a baby's delicate skin, helping to minimize irritation and safety risks. If the baby develops skin redness, itching, or allergic reactions after use, medical attention should be sought promptly.
1. Baby Tear-Free Shampoo: With a mild, non-irritating formula free from soap bases and fragrances, its pH level closely matches that of an infant’s scalp. It helps protect the natural lipid layer while cleansing, preventing dryness and itchiness, and avoids irritating the sensitive eye area.
2. Gentle Body Wash: Typically formulated with amino acid-based surfactants, it produces fine, easily rinsed foam that gently removes dirt without compromising the skin’s natural barrier. Suitable for daily or every-other-day use, it helps reduce the risk of skin sensitivity.
3. Soft Pure Cotton Bath Towel: Made from high-thread-count pure cotton, it offers strong absorbency and a luxuriously soft texture with low friction. It quickly dries the baby’s body, preventing chills due to dampness, while minimizing skin irritation from rubbing.
4. Slip-Resistant Safety Bathtub: Features anti-slip textured flooring, smooth rounded edges without sharp corners, and a size proportionate to an infant’s body. This design prevents slipping and bumping during bath time. Some models include adjustable reclining angles to enhance both comfort and safety.
5. Natural Moisturizing Lotion: Contains gentle hydrating ingredients such as petroleum jelly and ceramides, and is free from alcohol and artificial dyes. Applied after bathing, it locks in moisture, helps relieve dryness and flaking, and is especially suitable for babies with dry skin or during colder seasons like autumn and winter.
When caring for infants, limit bathing frequency—newborns need only 2–3 baths per week, each lasting no more than 10 minutes. Use lukewarm water at a temperature of 38–40°C, testing the warmth with your elbow. Use only the necessary amount of cleansing products to avoid residue buildup. After bathing, immediately wrap the baby in a towel to retain warmth and gently apply moisturizer to nurture and protect their delicate skin.
