What You Need for a Gentle & Calming Bath Routine

There's nothing like a nice, calming bath to soothe babies and get them ready for bed. In fact, for many moms, giving their little one a bath is one of the most important steps in their bedtime routine. It's the perfect way to wind down and spend some quality time with your baby.

But for bathtime to be a success, you must be prepared with everything you need ahead of time. Here are five items you should have on hand that will help put your baby at ease and make your bath routine a breeze!

1. Bathtub. This is one of the main things you'll need to make sure your baby is safe while you're giving him a bath. A baby bathtub (like Skip Hop MOBY Bathtub with Sling, $29.99, Target) will make bathtime easier and more comfortable for your little one. And the best part is that this one grows with your baby.

2. Towel. One of the most worrisome aspects of giving your baby a bath is making sure he doesn’t get too cold once it’s over. With a 100% cotton towel (like Baby Walrus Hooded Towel Cloud Island™ – Blue, $12.99, Target) you’ll be able to keep your baby warm and cozy.

3. Spout cover. As babies get bigger and move from a bather to an actual tub, this item is a must-have in terms of baby-proofing the bathroom. A faucet cover (like Skip Hop Moby Safety Bath Spout Cover, $12.99, Target) will keep your child from hitting her head against the hard metal spout.

4. Baby wash & shampoo. Your baby's skin is extremely delicate, so you'll want to make sure you use a gentle and tear-free body wash and shampoo (like Aveeno Baby Wash and Shampoo, $8.49, Target) to cleanse her little body.

5. Diaper rash ointment. All babies get diaper rash, so it’s always a good idea to have a healing ointment (like Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment, $12.79, Target) to give them relief fast. Apply once skin is clean and dry.