Breast milk is often referred to as “liquid gold” because of its numerous health benefits for babies. It’s packed with nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors that help support a baby’s overall health and development. Breast milk can even be used as a natural cleanser for a baby’s delicate skin. This often leads to the question of “do you use soap in a breast milk bath?” This article will explore that question and provide the benefits of giving your baby a breast milk bath.
Do you use soap in a breast milk bath?
Usually, no. You do not use soap in a breast milk bath. Breast milk is a natural cleanser that can effectively remove dirt, sweat, and other impurities from a baby’s skin. Unlike harsh soaps or cleansers, breast milk is gentle and will not strip the skin of its natural oils.
Breast milk is also rich in natural fats and proteins that can help moisturize and nourish a baby’s skin. This can help prevent dryness and irritation, especially in areas such as the face, hands, and feet. Additionally, breast milk contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated skin. Because of these benefits and the unique qualities of breast milk, there is no need to use soap in a breast milk bath.
Related article: Forgot Breast Milk Storage Bags? Here Are 4 Quick Options.
Can I use soap in a breast milk bath?
If you prefer to use soap when giving your baby a bath, then go for it! While it’s not necessary, it won’t cause any harm or negate the benefits of a breast milk bath. Make sure to opt for a mild, fragrance-free formula that is specifically designed for babies. Look for products that are free of harsh chemicals and irritants such as sulfates, fragrances, and dyes. We like Aveeno Baby.
Related article: Milk Still Flowing After 30 Minutes of Pumping? It Can Happen.
How to do a milk bath for baby (using soap or not!)
If you’ve never given a baby a breast milk bath, you may be wondering how exactly to go about it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to give a breast milk bath to a baby:
Step 1: Collect breast milk
Start by collecting breast milk in a clean container. You can use freshly pumped milk or thawed breast milk. Many moms like using breast milk they don’t plan on feeding to their babies. This can be milk with high lipase, breast milk that has been in the freezer for over a year, strawberry breast milk, or milk that was pumped after consuming alcohol.
Related article: How to Scald Breast Milk Quickly & Properly (& Why You Need To)
Step 2: Prepare the bath
Fill a baby bathtub or a sink with warm water. The water temperature should be around 100°F (37°C) or slightly above body temperature. Use a baby thermometer to check the temperature, or test the water with your elbow or wrist. You don’t want it to too hot!
Related article: Jealous of Your Nanny? Me, Too. Here’s How I Cope.
Step 3: Add breast milk
Add a few ounces of breast milk to the bath water. The amount of breast milk you use will depend on the size of the bathtub or sink, and the age of your baby. For newborns, you may only need to add a few tablespoons of breast milk to the bath water. The key is to make the water slightly opaque.
Step 4: Place baby in the bath
Gently place your baby in the bath water. Use your other hand to gently splash the water over their body, or if they are old enough allow them to splash away.
Related article: Breasts Not Responding to Pump Anymore? Try This.
Step 5: Cleanse and soothe – (Use soap in breast milk bath here.)
Use a soft washcloth or sponge to gently cleanse your baby’s skin, using the breast milk and water mixture. You can use the breast milk bath to wash your baby’s hair as well. Be sure to avoid getting water in their eyes and nose. Feel free to use soap at this point if you wish.
Related article: 7 Common Foods that Make Breast Milk Taste Bad
Step 6: Rinse and dry
Once you have finished cleansing your baby’s skin, gently rinse their body with clean water from a cup or pitcher. Use a soft towel to pat your baby’s skin dry, being careful to dry between their fingers, toes, and any folds of skin. If your baby has dry skin, you can apply a gentle moisturizer or lotion after the bath to lock in the benefits of the breast milk bath.
Related article: Accidentally Went 6 Hours Without Breastfeeding? Don’t Panic!
Benefits of a Breast Milk Bath for Baby
A breast milk bath can provide several benefits for a baby’s delicate skin. Breast milk is beneficial to both the inside and outside of a baby’s body. Here are some of the potential benefits of a breast milk bath:
Gentle cleansing
As we mentioned above, breast milk is a natural cleanser that can effectively remove dirt, sweat, and other impurities from a baby’s skin. Unlike harsh soaps or cleansers, breast milk is gentle and will not strip the skin of its natural oils. Breast milk also contains lactic acid, which helps to exfoliate skin and remove dead skin cells, leaving baby’s skin soft and smooth.
Related article: Breastfeeding While On Your Period? 7 Helpful Tips for Your Milk Supply.
Moisturizing
Breast milk is rich in natural fats and proteins that can help moisturize and nourish a baby’s skin. This can help prevent dryness and irritation, especially in areas such as the face, hands, and feet. The natural fats and proteins in breast milk also provide a protective barrier against dryness and irritation.
Related article: How Does Breast Milk Smell? Sweet! Find Out More Here.
Soothing
Breast milk contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated skin. Breast milk has been shown to be particularly effective in treating various skin conditions in babies, such as diaper rash, eczema, and cradle cap. When applied topically to affected areas, breast milk can help to soothe and heal irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection.
Antibacterial
Breast milk contains antibodies and other immune-boosting compounds, like lactoferrin and lysozyme, that can help protect a baby’s skin from harmful bacteria and infections. It also contains natural immunoglobulins that can help to strengthen the baby’s immune system and fight off specific types of bacteria and viruses.
Related article: What To Do With Your Old Breast Pump: Reuse, Recycle, Dispose
Bonding
This last benefit of a breast milk bath for baby can’t be highlighted enough! Bath time can be a wonderful bonding experience (or a nightmare depending on your baby!). Using breast milk in the bath can help enhance this experience by providing a unique and intimate connection between you and your precious baby.
Breast milk baths have many benefits for your baby. Because of the numerous beneficial qualities of breast milk, you do not need to use soap in a breast milk bath. Enjoy the time with your baby, recognizing that your breast milk helps your baby both internally and externally!
This article contains affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer for more info.
