By Midwife Monique Maitland, Founder of The Middee Society, in partnership with GAIA Natural Baby
Hey there, new parent! 🍼
The first moment you hold your baby on your chest is filled with so much love and emotion. But alongside this you’ll probably notice your baby feels slippery and can look a little messy. They might be covered in blood, vernix (that creamy, white coating), and other natural fluids from birth.
One of the most common questions I’m asked as a midwife in those first moments is: “When can we give our baby a bath?”
Here’s what I want you to know.. even though it may look like your baby is “dirty,” they’re not. In fact, those coatings play an important role in protecting their skin and helping them adjust to life outside the womb. That’s why it’s recommended to delay your baby’s first bath until they are at least 24 hours old.
That first moment you meet your baby is filled with awe and wonder. You might notice a bit of blood, some vernix (that white, cheesy stuff), and think, “Should I give them a bath?” Hold up, don’t rush to sud baby up just yet.
Here’s why waiting at least 24 hours before bathing your newborn is a game-changer.
Vernix: Nature’s Protective Layer
That white, creamy coating? It’s called vernix caseosa. In the womb, it acts like a waterproof barrier, protecting your baby's delicate skin from the amniotic fluid. After birth, it continues to moisturise, soothe, and provide gentle anti-infective protection.
Washing it off too soon means losing these natural benefits. So, let it be, and your baby's skin will thank you.
Why Delay the First Bath?
Delaying the first bath allows your baby's skin to:
● Retain moisture naturally
● Protect against harmful bacteria
● Adjust to life outside the womb
● Prevents them from becoming hypothermic (too cold)
● Prevents them from becoming hypoglycaemic (low blood sugar levels)
Your newborn's skin is delicate and perfectly designed to thrive with minimal intervention in those first critical hours.
Gentle Newborn Care Tips
Even if you delay the first bath, you can still keep your baby comfortable and clean:
● You may choose to use a soft, damp cloth or organic cotton pad to gently wipe away any visible bodily fluid such as blood.
● Avoid soaps and harsh cleansers in the first few days
● Let the vernix do its job, it's nature's own skincare. You don’t need to wipe it off
Final Thoughts
Your newborn isn't dirty, they're coated in a natural, protective layer that's best left alone for at least the first 24 hours. Delaying the bath is a simple way to give your baby's delicate skin the best start in life. When bub is finally ready for their first bath, opt for a gentle, soap-free baby wash like the GAIA Natural Baby Hair & Body Wash.
Remember, you're doing an amazing job. Trust your instincts and know that you're giving your baby the best care possible.
