Remarks

• The Guideline Development Group (GDG) noted that there is no evidence to support an early first bath after birth for any special reason, such as meconium staining or for preventing the risk of transmission of infection from the mother.
• The GDG suggested that all measures should be taken to minimize heat loss during bathing, which include maintaining a neutral thermal environment, immediate drying, appropriate clothing of the newborn for the ambient temperature (this means 1–2 layers of clothes more than adults and use of hats/ caps), and allowing the mother and baby to remain together at all times.