Is your baby ready for first bath?

First-time parents may wonder if baby needs a bath every day or every other day. How often you bathe your baby is up to you, but daily baths really aren't necessary.

You can keep their face, hands and bottoms clean in between baths by using a warm cloth every day. And you don't have to wait for her umbilical stump to fall off to introduce tub time.

As long as you thoroughly pat it dry after she comes out of the water, this won't interfere with healing. Some new moms are more comfortable substituting a sponge bath for the first week or so, but when you're ready for baby's first real bath, here's how to make it a successful experience:

Be prepared: Line up all of your supplies, including a washcloth, baby soap (if desired), a clean towel, diaper, barrier cream and clothes. everything should be within arm's reach. It's important to keep your eyes and at least one hand on your baby at all times.

Remember that just a little bit of water can be dangerous if your infant somehow manages to flip over. If you're not using a baby tub, place a clean towel in the bottom of your bathtub, bathroom sink or kitchen sink (thoroughly cleaned and rinsed ahead of time).

This will give you some traction so she doesn't slip. Then add two to three inches of tepid water. Use your elbow — which is more sensitive than your hand — to test the temperature.

Ease baby into the bath: Bring her over to the bath area, remove her clothes and diaper, and gently lower her into the water using one arm to hold her up. It can be nerve-wracking to do this alone, so I've always found it helpful to have my husband there for support.

Ask your partner to hold the baby while you wash her down, or vice versa, at least until you get used to the routine. Use the cloth to wash her from top to bottom, starting with her face, ears and around her eyes, then move the cloth down her torso and legs, finishing with her/his bum.

Move quickly and efficiently: Newborns don't have much body fat and can get cold easily. If she looks too cold, soils the water, or is crying non-stop, simply cut the bath short, or try singing a song or showing her a toy to distract her while you finish up. You'll hate to see such a teeny-tiny baby cry, but don't get freaked out.

Dry carefully: When you're finished, dry her carefully, making sure you get into all of the little folds of skin to prevent rashes and irritation. Newborns don't need a body lotion, but if you choose to use one, make sure it's hypoallergenic and designed for babies.