Children's Health Sponsors do not influence content. Although you may be nervous at first, you ll soon grow confident and competent as you learn what works best for you and your baby. Until your baby starts crawling on the floor, a daily bath is not necessary. As long as adequate cleansing is done during diaper changes and after feedings, a bath 2 or 3 times a week in the precrawling months will keep your baby fresh smelling and presentable. Just about any time of day can be the right time for a bath.
Some parents feel bathing just before bedtime helps create a more relaxed state conducive to sleep.
It is best to avoid baths just after or just before a meal, because so much handling on a full tummy could result in spitting up, and baby may not be cooperative on an empty stomach. Give your baby time for the bath, so it need not be hurried, and you won't be tempted to leave baby unattended even for a second to take care of something else. Turn on the telephone answering machine or simply plan on not answering the phone during the bath time. If you must leave the room, take the baby with you. The sponge bath.