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How to bathe a reluctant baby

Baby: Tips on how you can avoid bath time trouble

By //
Originally published in Today's Parent March 2012

Q: Bath time with my three-month-old is a disaster. As soon as I wet and shampoo her hair, she’s inconsolable. What can I do?

A: First, remember her hair doesn’t need to be washed every time she has a bath. Just rubbing her head with a wet washcloth once a day is fine — too much shampooing may lead to cradle cap. Sometimes, though, a baby needs a really good hair wash. If you’re bathing your daughter in a reclining position, this may trigger her Moro reflex — a baby’s reaction to a loss of support for the head — and she could feel like she’s falling. Try holding her upright and use a wet washcloth to rinse. Other options include taking a bath with her, which will make her feel more secure.

What do you think?

  • Guest_290036 says ....

    I just ended up showering with her. A little slippery, but she loved it.

    • 15 March 2012