Bathing your newborn baby can be scary in the beginning, especially if you are a first time mum. Rest assured that with practice, bathing and massaging your baby may be the most fun time of the day.

Handling a wet and slippery baby can be difficult. Try these tips for a less stressful bathing experience:

1. Gather all the necessary bath supplies such as soap, towel, bath tub, change of clothes, nappy or diaper, washcloths and so on before you start. Keep them within easy reach. This way you won't have to worry about balancing your baby in one hand and scrambling to get everything together with the other.

2. Organise a comfortable and warm place to give your baby a bath. Whether you use a bath tub, seat or your legs, make sure you and your baby are properly supported.

3. Put your arm around your baby and hold on to one of his arms. This way his head and neck will be supported with your arm. Keep a gentle but firm grip. If you are bathing your baby in a bath tub, you can even put a towel at the bottom of the tub so that your baby doesn't slip.

4. Use water that feels warm and not too hot. Dip your elbow in the water to check the temperature before you bathe your baby in it.

5. Choose a time of the day when your baby isn't too sleepy or hungry, ideally between feeds. Otherwise he might just cry throughout the bath instead of enjoying it.

6. Fill the bath with warm water. The level of water should be no higher than your baby's navel (belly button) when he is placed in the bath tub.

7. You may prefer to wash your baby's head at the end of the bath, particularly if he seems fussy during it. Once you finish cleaning his body wrap him in a towel and hold him under your arm and use your hand to balance his head. Place him above the bath tub and use your other hand to gently pour water on his head. Take extra care when cleaning the soft spots (fontanelles) on his head.

8. Do bear in mind, that it might be harder for winter babies to feel comfortable in a bath because of the cold. Make sure to warm up the bathroom or room where you plan to bathe your baby.

9. Most importantly, never leave your baby unattended. Your baby can get into trouble in a very little water within a matter of a few seconds. Read our complete guide on bathing your newborn.

Most newborns love the feel of water. And bath time may become the most enjoyable part of you and your baby's daily routine!