Bathing a newborn can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to washing their hair. It’s essential to be gentle and attentive in order to keep your baby safe and comfortable. In this article, we will cover 11 steps that will guide you through the process of washing your newborn’s hair.

1. Gather your supplies: Before starting, make sure you have everything you need within arm’s reach, including a soft baby towel, washcloth, baby shampoo, and comb or brush.

2. Fill the tub: Fill a baby bathtub or basin with warm water (test it with your elbow), ensuring it’s not too hot or too cold.

3. Undress the baby: Carefully remove your newborn’s clothes and diaper, making sure to clean any accumulated debris from their skin.

4. Lower the baby into the water: Gently lower your newborn into the tub using one hand to support their head and neck. Maintain constant physical contact to ensure their safety.

5. Wet their hair: Use a washcloth soaked in warm water to gently dampen your baby’s hair without submerging their head underwater.

6. Apply shampoo: Dispense a dime-size amount of mild, tear-free baby shampoo onto your fingertips or washcloth. Gently massage it into your baby’s scalp using circular motions while avoiding contact with their eyes.

7. Rinse: Use the same wet washcloth or cupped hand to gently rinse away the shampoo from your newborn’s hair, making sure not a single drop gets into their eyes or mouth.

8. Comb or brush gently: While your baby’s hair is still damp, use a soft-bristle comb or brush to detangle any knots gently, working from the ends up towards the roots.

9. Dry off: Wrap your newborn in a soft, warm towel and lightly pat their hair with another towel to dry it. Do not rub your baby’s hair, as this may cause tangles or irritation to their sensitive scalp.

10. Keep them warm: As newborns lose body heat quickly, ensure they’re wrapped up snugly in a clean, dry blanket or swaddled before moving them to another location.

11. Support their head: Once your baby is dry and warm, use one hand to cradle and support their head and neck as you carry them. This will help minimize unnecessary movement and keep your newborn feeling secure.

By following these 11 steps, you will have successfully washed your newborn’s hair. Ensure that you only wash their hair every few days or when necessary, as excessive washing can strip their hair of natural oils and lead to a dry scalp.