“Why I Don’t Bathe My Baby Every Day” — Toke Makinwa Sparks Nationwide Debate on Infant Skin Care

Media personality and entrepreneur Toke Makinwa has ignited a widespread discussion across social media after revealing that she does not bathe her baby every day, arguing that excessive bathing can lead to skin problems in infants. Her statement, which was shared during a casual conversation online, has since spiraled into one of the most talked-about parenting topics of the week, drawing mixed reactions from parents, pediatric experts, and everyday Nigerians who are grappling with the balance between cultural norms and modern childcare practices.

For many Nigerians, the idea of not bathing a baby daily feels almost unthinkable. Bath time has long been considered a cultural ritual, an expression of care, and a sign of good hygiene. But Toke’s remarks challenge that tradition head-on. According to her, people have underestimated the sensitivity of a newborn’s skin and the role natural oils play in keeping it healthy. She stated that excessive bathing strips away the baby’s essential moisture barrier, leaving the skin vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and other dermatological issues. Her stance, although surprising to some, aligns with what many pediatric dermatologists worldwide have said for years: newborns do not need daily baths.

The moment Toke made the comment, social platforms lit up. Parents began sharing their experiences, with some admitting that they had long suspected that the traditional daily bathing routine might be too harsh, especially for babies with sensitive skin. Others argued that bathing a baby every day is non-negotiable, especially in warm climates like Nigeria’s, where sweat and heat are constants. The debate grew so heated that Toke continued trending for hours, with thousands chiming in to either support or criticize her stance.

Several mothers applauded her honesty, calling it a refreshing deviation from the highly polished and often unrealistic portrayals of motherhood that celebrities tend to show. For them, hearing a public figure admit to a more relaxed routine felt validating. These women shared how they, too, noticed skin irritations on days when they bathed their babies too frequently. Some recounted experiences of rashes, dry patches, and peeling skin that doctors later attributed to overwashing. They expressed relief that someone with Toke’s influence was breaking the silence around a topic many felt judged for.

On the other hand, critics argued that skipping daily baths could cause hygiene issues. They questioned whether such a practice is suitable in a tropical country and insisted that babies need frequent cleaning to stay fresh and avoid odors. Some took the argument to extremes, accusing Toke of neglect, while others dismissed her claim entirely, saying she was simply trying to appear unconventional. But despite the backlash, Toke did not step back from her comments; instead, she reinforced her belief that every mother should understand her child’s unique needs rather than conform blindly to societal expectations.

What stands out in this ongoing conversation is how deeply cultural upbringing influences child-rearing decisions. In many Nigerian households, a baby’s bath is almost ceremonial. New mothers are often taught to bathe their infants in the morning sun, massage them with oils, and ensure they remain clean and fresh throughout the day. These practices are passed down through generations, forming part of the collective idea of what “good parenting” means. Questioning these traditions, especially publicly, often draws resistance. Toke’s remarks therefore touch more than just hygiene—they challenge long-held norms.

Meanwhile, health professionals began weighing in as the debate intensified. Some pediatric experts supported Toke’s perspective, clarifying that newborns have delicate skin that needs protection more than frequent washing. They emphasized that lukewarm water, gentle cleansers, and fewer baths help maintain the baby’s natural oils, which act as a protective shield. According to them, bathing infants two to three times a week is sufficient, except in cases where the baby gets unusually dirty. They further clarified that wiping the baby’s face, neck, and diaper area daily still ensures proper hygiene without exposing the entire body to water and soap too frequently.

The conversation also touched on the psychological pressure many mothers face when it comes to parenting choices. Several commenters pointed out that motherhood is already demanding, and the constant scrutiny from society only adds to that stress. Toke’s admission felt like a breath of fresh air to some mothers who said they had been shamed for choosing routines that worked best for their babies. In many households, the fear of judgment often pushes parents into overly rigid childcare practices. Toke’s openness is now sparking what some describe as a “realistic parenting” movement, where mothers feel more empowered to prioritize their baby’s individual needs over societal expectations.

Despite the heated disagreements, one undeniable fact is that Toke Makinwa has once again succeeded in using her platform to spark meaningful national conversation. Whether people agree with her or not, she has forced a necessary discussion about the importance of understanding infant skin care and breaking free from outdated beliefs. Within hours, hashtags related to her comments began trending, with thousands of parents curious to learn more about best practices. Parenting groups, blogs, and medical pages took advantage of the momentum to educate the public, demonstrating how a single celebrity comment can shape larger societal discourse.

Some also noted that Toke’s decision aligns with modern, science-based parenting practices common in many parts of the world. In countries where healthcare systems emphasize skin sensitivity in infants, parents are often advised to reduce bath frequency and instead focus on gentle skincare. This perspective is gradually gaining traction in Nigeria as more young parents turn to online resources, doctors, and parenting communities for guidance. Toke’s revelation may accelerate this shift, encouraging parents to engage more with medical opinions rather than relying solely on cultural norms.

As the debate continues, one thing is clear: conversations about parenting will always stir emotions. Every mother wants what is best for her child, but the journey to discovering what works can vary greatly. Toke Makinwa’s candid remark has peeled back a layer of pretense around motherhood, allowing people to speak more honestly about their choices, their insecurities, and their discoveries. Whether her approach becomes widely adopted or continues to be debated, it has undeniably opened a space where parents can evaluate their routines without guilt or pressure.

In the end, Toke’s message resonates with a simple truth: every baby is different. While daily baths may work perfectly for some families, others may find that less frequent bathing keeps their baby’s skin healthier and more comfortable. Her willingness to share her personal routine, despite the inevitable criticism, highlights her commitment to honest conversations about motherhood—conversations that many parents have been waiting for. And with Nigeria’s growing population of young mothers who are navigating a blend of tradition and modernity, such honest discussions are not only valuable but necessary.