While giving a fussy baby a bath can seem like an overwhelming task, it can actually make the baby less fussy. The warm water along with the undivided attention from mom or dad can often soothe a fussy baby, and make them relaxed enough to fall asleep.
The trick is to have everything ready in advance so that the baby is not aggravated by waiting or being cold before being placed in the bath.
Gather what you will need
The first step is to gather what you will need for the bath. By having everything within easy reach, the fussy baby can experience the undivided attention of mom or dad and begin to relax. Some good bathing products for a fussy baby are lavender body wash and lavender baby oil. Lavender is well known for having a relaxing and calming effect on both babies and adults.
Get the warm water ready
Once you have everything you will need for the bath you should start running the warm water. Be sure the water is warm enough to be comforting for the baby, but not too hot as to burn. There is nothing worse than injuring your newborn when you are really just trying to relax your baby.
Remaining calm is everything
Remaining calm while you remove the baby’s clothing and the diaper is very important. You may notice things that caused the baby to become fussy that you never observed before. The diaper may be dirty. There may be a piece of something in the clothing bothering the baby. The baby may be tired. No matter what, it is important that you remain calm when your baby is crying and won't stop. Your anger or frustration can be sensed by the baby and this may make him or her more agitated.
Continuously check your baby's reactions to the water
Check the water one more time before placing the baby in the bath. Once the baby is in the water, watch the baby’s skin for signs of redness or irritation. This may be a sign that the water is too hot. If the baby’s water begins to get too cold, carefully add more warm water to the current water, watching to ensure that it does not get too hot. While the baby is in the water, use your hands to soap the baby’s body up and rinse the baby’s body. Be careful not to get soap into his/her eyes, as this can cause irritation. Soap should also not be allowed to get into the baby’s mouth or nose, as it can cause the baby to choke.
It is important to remember that a baby can drown in inches of water. Under no circumstances should you leave the baby alone in the bath. If the phone rings, let it ring. If the neighbors knock, they can come back or you can wrap up the baby in a towel and take him/her with you. Under no circumstance should the baby be left alone in the bath — not even for a second.