Bathing Children Safely
By Sidnee Baker and Cristal Luna
Precautions
Children are very playful and adventurous. As a parent, it is important to make sure that your child is safe while taking a bath. Some safety measures are:
- Comfortable water temperature (37C)
- Put the cold water in first
- For newborns and up to six months old the bathtub should be filled about 5 inches
- Never fill the bathtub more than waist high or let the water running
- If you can't hold your baby at the moment get a bath cradle which will support her in the water
- If he or she is old enough you can use a bath seat
- Don't leave your child in the bathtub alone
- Get a rubber mat so your child won't slip
- Make sure your bathtub is clean
- If possible have someone help you
Did You Know?
- Completely cleansing the diaper area after changing the baby will prevent the need for daily baths.
- Giving your baby baths frequently are not only a complete waste, but will also dry your baby's skin.
- Kitchen sinks and bathroom sinks are also efficient ways to give your baby a bath.
- It is fine to use just water to bathe your baby unless he or she is particularly dirty.
- Sponge baths are necessary for newborns and also a good option for older babies as well.
- A clean cotton cloth or ball can be used to wipe the eyelids from the inner to outer corner.