Although it may seem intuitive, bathing your baby can be unexpectedly complicated if you aren’t prepared. In fact, a recent study showed that about 70% of new parents didn’t receive adequate instructions when it comes to safe bathing, and about 70% of new parents experienced safety incidents while bathing their infants.
Here are some tips to ensure a safe bath time for your little one.
- Always supervise: Perhaps the most important tip to remember is to always supervise your baby. Babies can drown in just a few inches of water which means you should never be farther than an arm’s length from them at all times when they are in the bath. This applies to babies and toddlers.
- Prevent slips: Wherever you choose to bath your baby (a sink or a bath tub), make sure the surface you choose is stable and non-slip. Use a non-slip bathmat or bath threads in the tub. If you are using a sink, you can lay a towel in the sink to create friction and to make the surface softer.
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Check the water temperature: Fill the sink or tub with warm water, but not too hot. The water temperature should be between 37 - 38°C. You can use a thermometer to check the water temperature or test it with your elbow.
- Support your infant’s head: A baby's head is heavy and can be easily injured, so it's important to support their head and neck at all times so it doesn’t get submerged in water. Use one hand to hold their head and neck, and the other hand to wash their body.
- Never rely on bath aids: if using a bath aid (ie an infant tub, a bath seat), always supervise and never rely on the bath aid to safely secure your baby.
- Use a gentle soap: Choose a baby soap or shampoo that is gentle and free from harsh chemicals. Use a small amount to wash your baby's hair and body, and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Avoid getting soap in your baby's eyes.
- Check for mouldy toys: Check for mouldy water toys before every bath and if you see any mould, throw out the toy immediately. Try to purchase bath toys that do not have holes in them to prevent mould and bacteria build up.
- Be mindful of water levels: Make sure the water level never reaches higher than your baby's chest.
- Use both hands to lift baby out: Babies can be super slippery when wet (especially if they love to wiggle!). To prevent any injuries, use both your hands to lift them out. It's best to use The Fuzzy Sprout Hands-free, Wearable towel to easily lift them out of the tub and onto your chest without worrying about juggling your towel or without getting wet! See how it works:
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By following these simple tips, you can help make your baby's bath a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember to take your time, be patient, and always keep a close eye on your little one. Happy bathing!
Written by Lina at The Fuzzy Sprout
