Sponge baths in the newborn window

Sponge baths are for the first 1–2 weeks, before the umbilical stump falls off and the belly can safely be submerged. They also work anytime you don't want to fill the tub for a quick clean-up. Lay your baby on a warm, water-safe pad or towel. Undress them down to the diaper and keep a warm towel over the parts you're not currently washing. Go top-down to keep the water clean: face, then neck creases (where milk collects), arms, chest, back, legs, and diaper area last. Use a soft washcloth and plain warm water for most of the bath. Save the mild soap for the diaper area and any obvious dirty spots. Ten minutes is plenty — babies lose heat quickly out of the tub.