Soap wet cloth and rub over head, avoiding pressure over fontanel or getting soapy water in eyes.
If head has scurf, anoint at night with vaseline, olive oil, or fresh lard, and put on a thin muslin cap.
Never use a comb or harsh rubbing.
Body Bath. Note temperature of water and modify with supply at hand to exact degree. Place the baby in the tub, supporting the head and upper back with left hand. Baby may be lowered in the towel, if afraid.
If giving only sponge bath, hold head face upward over basin to rinse, and wash and dry each part of body separately.
Rinse the head several times very thoroughly with cloth.
Wash the body gently; use a little soap two or three times a week.
Wash under arms, in creases of neck, thighs, fingers, and toes; turn baby over and wash the back.
After six months, baby may splash or attempt swimming for one to four minutes.
Lift baby on to bath apron and give cool sponge very quickly.