Have everything you need close by. Use a clean bucket, sink or baby bath to wash your baby. You also need cotton wool or a soft cloth, towels, a clean nappy and clean clothes.

Fill the container with water as deep as your fingers. Use a bath thermometer, your wrist or your elbow to check that the water is not too hot. It should be about 37-38°C.

When the bath is ready, undress your baby. Cradle baby’s head and shoulders with one arm, and support baby’s body with the other arm. Gently lower baby into the water. Use one arm to hold your baby and your other hand to wash. Make sure baby’s face isn’t covered.

Wet a cotton wool ball or soft cloth with warm water. Gently wipe your baby’s eyes from inside to out. Use a new cotton wool ball or clean part of the cloth for each eye.

Gently wash your baby’s hair and head with water.

Gently finish washing your baby. If you miss any parts of baby’s body, wipe these with a wet cloth after you take baby out of the bath.

Never leave your baby alone in the bath. Babies can drown quickly even in shallow water. Always finish the bath first before doing something else.

Support your baby’s head and body when you take them out of the bath. Lay baby on the unfolded towel and gently pat them dry.

Wash your baby at least twice a week in a bath. Clean babies are happy and healthy babies.