When I was in the hospital with Lenora they put a big bright sign over her crib that said, "BABY HAS NOT BEEN BATHED" like she was some type of diseased alien or something. Every time anyone came in to check her vitals they would remind each other to wear gloves because she was not bathed. I understand them wanting to wear gloves, and it protects my baby anyways, but I think they certainly went overboard. She came out pretty cheesy and I kept a close eye on my midwife to make sure she didn't wipe her down at all. I personally waited three weeks before I gave my daughter her first bath, but even just waiting two days after birth is the best.
When a baby is born, they are covered in a white cheesy type coating. This is called the vernix. The vernix does a few wonderful things. It acts as a natural antibacterial cream that is amazing at preventing a bacteria infection. These are skin cells your baby has made when they were in your womb and it is awesome for their skin. It not only provides them with gorgeous skin, but it boosts their immune system as well.
There are some hospitals that ask to bathe the baby before they even go to the parents. To me, this is absurd! Why would you want the first person to be the nurse that gets to hold your baby during the first few minutes of birth? Babies need their moms and that bonding time is very important. It is also linked to improved breastfeeding success and of course you won't need any chemical lotions on your baby since the vernix acts as a natural lotion.
It is best to delay baths at the hospital altogether.
