Basic clean-up routines have their own perks and can give your baby a multitude of health benefits. According to the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP), a newborn should be bathed 24 hours after birth. There are many benefits that can be reaped from bathing time other than dozens of adorable photo opportunities.

This article would discuss 4 of those perks. 

#1 It can boost the parent-baby bond

If you were wondering why baby bathing time gives you an unfathomable amount of joy, this could be the reason. Bathtime can be the highlight of your day as a parent. It’s the best way to be alone with your child, just the two of you. At first, this particular bonding session can be difficult. Afterall a newborn can be somewhat delicate and even the best of us would be anxious to bathe them.

However, as they grow and are able to socialize with you in a cute way, the bathing session can be entertaining to both the baby and the parent. Gaze into their eyes lovingly, count those cute tiny toes, coo sweet nothing, kiss that yummy baby belly and never forget to sing silly songs. It’s important for you to show how much you love your baby so that the little one would realize how much they were appreciated.

#2 Bathing your baby can be a good learning experience

There are a lot of things that you can learn and teach while bathing your baby. Some aspect of your baby’s personality can only appear at a certain point of time and this way, you can learn about your baby better. Try to trickle water gently into their tummy and see how they will react. Probably they will giggle endlessly. Teach him how to create a splash and who knows, probably they will get creative and kick the water instead.

Some babies are not too hyperactive when they are bathing, but they are sure captivated. Just look at their wide-eyed gaze. For most children, water-related activities can be the most entertaining thing they would get to participate in. Don’t forget a play-by-play as you were bathing them. Try to name his body parts while you sud them. Soon enough, they would be learning a bunch of words, more than you would expect they could.

#3 It’s the best way to soothe a fussy baby

Have you ever encountered a fussy baby who cries their eyes out without any obvious reason and their parents decide to just bathe them?

Me either.

Most probably you learn this by observation or your own baby bathing experience but nothing is more comforting than a soak in a tub. It’s literally the best feeling in the world. You can amplify their calmness by trying a few infant massage techniques.

If they love it, you can keep going but some might turn their head or make a fuss. Don’t worry, it’s normal. If they don’t like it, just cuddle instead. Soon, you will learn what works best for your child.

#4 The best way to induce sleep

Some babies tend to snooze themselves while bathing and that’s alright. This can happen especially if it is a part of your child’s bedtime routine. You can imagine it being the most secure situation; the lukewarm water, the warm room, and the warm feeling of being secure and loved.