Frequently Asked Questions

Sponge bathing often is recommended for the first few weeks, until the umbilical cord and circumcision, if any, have healed. Wash your baby's hair and body using a gentle baby cleanser, washing the diaper area last.

Related Article: Giving Your Baby a Sponge Bath 

To keep your baby clean, you really only need to bathe your baby every other day or so. Once your baby is mobile or has discovered the joys of independent eating, daily baths for cleanliness become more of a necessity as well as another opportunity for play! There are many other reasons to take a bath that can include being part of a routine that helps transition a child into a sleep-ready mood. Bathing in a delightfully scented warm bath is a very relaxing way for both parents and baby to slip in to a good night's sleep! Bath time can also provide a special opportunity to bond with your baby and after bath provides a special time for massage to help ready him for bed. Bedtime routines are essential for good sleep habits, so enjoy this unique time with your baby, particularly at the end of a hectic day.

Related Article: Newborn Sleep

Most babies get diaper rash at least once in the first 3 years. Babies who are 9 to 12 months old, teething, starting solid food or taking antibiotics are especially vulnerable.

Trapped moisture and friction from movement in a wet or dirty diaper can irritate the skin, causing redness and irritation in the diaper area. Once the skin is damaged, your child's urine and feces can cause further irritation.

Change your baby's diapers as soon as they are soiled. Cleanse your baby's diaper area thoroughly with baby wipes, a wet cloth or a baby-appropriate cleansing lotion. Always wipe from front to back. Pay attention to skin folds and creases—make sure they're thoroughly rinsed and dried.  JOHNSON'S® baby powder gently absorbs excess wetness to keep baby’s skin dry and soft.

When extra protection might be desired, try using DESITIN® Rapid Relief Creamy. Or if light pinkness or actual rash is present, use DESITIN® Maximum Strength Paste.

WARNING: Keep powder away from child’s face to avoid inhalation, which can cause breathing problems. Avoid contact with eyes. For external use only. Close tightly after use.

Related Article: Diaper Rash Guide

Nurse frequently—between 8 and 12 times a day after the first 24 hours (you should offer the breast frequently during the first day as well, but the baby may not nurse 8 times). Look for your baby’s hunger cues. Keeping your baby snuggled with her skin against your skin helps encourage her to breastfeed. Wake your baby if more than 3 hours go by from the start of one feeding session to the start of the next.

Let your baby finish nursing on one breast before switching to the other. This will typically take between 10 and 20 minutes (if your baby won’t nurse for at least 10 minutes, ask a lactation consultant whether you should pump until your baby nurses longer). Your baby may not nurse on the other side. If she doesn’t, just start on that breast next time. Feeding on demand will stimulate your breasts to produce plenty of milk. Later, your baby can settle into a more predictable routine. But because breast milk is more easily digested than formula, breast-fed babies often eat more frequently than bottle-fed babies.

All babies feed differently. Take your cues from your baby. If your baby is over 1 week old and wetting at least 6 to 8 diapers in a 24-hour period, she is likely getting enough milk no matter her feeding pattern.

Related Article: Breastfeeding Guide

Massage is a great way to relax your baby before bedtime. Massage JOHNSON'S® BEDTIME® Baby lotion  over your baby's entire body to help soothe, soften and moisturize.

Related Article: JOHNSON’S® 3-Step Routine