I do not recommend this product for a newborn. It is unsafe, as it is too large and slippery for a newborn. If you are not holding your infant with both hands, they will slip around in the tub too much, and potentially have their head slip into the water in the water in the tub. There is no way you could safely bathe a newborn without two people on the job using this bathtub. If you're looking for a bathtub that you can easily and safely use for newborns, I recommend one with an infant sling. The sling cradles the baby and prevents them from slipping, keeping one or both of your hands free for washing the baby. This product will be returned, and I highly caution any parents against purchasing this product, given the safety issues.