Baby massage: A step-by-step guide

Bonding with your baby is one of the sweetest things about being a parent and can involve everything from blowing raspberries on your baby’s tummy, to reading a book together or doing bath time. Another science-backed way to connect with your child is through baby massage.  

The benefits of baby massage

This special ritual involves using soothing, gentle strokes to help your babyfeel calm and secure.  

We spoke to Margo Kilborn, trainer and President of the International Association of Infant Massage, and asked her how to make it a wonderful part of your routine. 

Margo says that baby massage has numerous physical and emotional benefits for your child. “Massage and touch releases the hormone oxytocin, which is a calming and relaxing hormone. It’s also a really nurturing and bonding process between parents and their child and that chance to spend some quality time together,” she says.  

 

The physical and emotional benefits of baby massage include:  

💗 Releases oxytocin — the feel-good bonding hormone

🌙 Supports better sleep patterns 

🧠 Encourages healthy brain and physical development 

💨 Aids digestion, helping relieve gas and constipation 

🧘 Eases muscle tension and reduces stress 

👶 Helps your baby feel more secure and connected. 

Baby massage: When you can start

Baby massage can be done as early as day one in your baby’s life, says Margo, but it’s important to find a time when you’re able to comfortably fit it into your schedule. It should be done slowly, when you’re not rushed, to create a soothing and bonding experience. 

 

Pick a time when your baby is relaxed, says Margo, who adds that it’s important to be guided by your baby’s cues and their mood. “If they’re smiling, relaxed and reaching out towards you [that’s a good time to massage]. If your baby is crying then stop because they are telling us there’s something they’re not happy about – it could be because they're not in a comfortable position or they just need a little kiss and a cuddle – and then they go down again and you can carry on.”  

 

Baby massage can generally be done up until your child is 12 months old, with no special equipment needed – just massage oil and a towel to lay them on. You can buy baby massage oil, which will be a gentle formula that nourishes your baby’s skin.   

 
Safety tip: Find a comfortable space on the floor to massage your baby. Margo says it's important to do the massage on the floor rather than a raised surface, such as a table, so they can’t roll off. 

 

Baby massages can be quite short (around five minutes) when your baby is still a newborn as “they can’t take too much stimulation,” says Margo. This can increase over time. 

Your step-by-step guide to baby massage

Step 1: Set up the environment Choose a warm, quiet room and lay down a soft towel. Put on some gentle, calming music, have some gentle baby oil nearby, wash your hands, and you're ready to go. 

Step 2: Start with baby's legs Hold their ankle and gently stroke from thigh to ankle, then massage those tiny feet. 

Step 3: Move to the tummy Use flat hands to gently stroke from chest down to belly (only after umbilical cord has healed). 

Step 4: Massage the arms Gently stroke from shoulder to wrist, giving those little fingers some attention too. 

Step 5: Gentle head massage Use fingertips to softly stroke from forehead outward and down the sides of their face. 

Step 6: Finish with the back and enjoy the moment If your bub's still happy, flip them over and use smooth strokes up and down their back. Take a moment to enjoy this special bonding time between you and your little one. 

 

Oils help reduce friction and allow smoother movements. They also moisturize baby’s skin and make massage more soothing for both of you. The best oils for infant massage are natural, mild, and safe for newborn skin. Avoid nut-based oils unless allergies are ruled out.

When to Avoid Baby Massage

• Don’t massage immediately after a feed
• Avoid massage if baby is sick, has a fever, or a rash 
• Skip massage if baby is upset or clearly resisting touch

It’s always okay to pause and try again later.  

General Baby Massage Tips

Timing: There's no perfect time, but many parents love doing massage after bath time or before bed when bub is calm and content. 

Room temperature: Keep it nice and warm so your little one doesn't get chilly while they're undressed. 

Pacing: Follow your baby's lead and keep it short and sweet. Some days they'll love a full massage, other days just a quick leg rub is enough. 

Oil: Use a gentle, fragrance-free baby oil (recommended above) and warm it in your hands first so it's not cold on their skin. 

Baby cues: Watch their face and body language. Happy gurgles and relaxed limbs mean keep going, but fussing or pushing away means it's time to stop and try again later.  

 

Baby massage is a wonderful way to help your little one relax and bond with you. Baby Bunting has everything you need to get started, from gentle massage oils to soft towels that make the whole experience comfortable for both of you.