Bath time can be a fun and enjoyable experience for your little ones, but safety should always come first. Infants and toddlers are especially vulnerable during bath time, so it’s important to take the right precautions. Here are some essential safety tips to ensure your child’s bath time is both safe and enjoyable.

1. Never Leave Your Child Unattended

The most important rule during bath time is to never leave your child unattended, not even for a second. Children can drown in very small amounts of water, so always keep a hand on your baby and stay within arm’s reach of older children.

2. Check the Water Temperature

Before placing your child in the bath, always test the water temperature. It should be warm, not hot. Ideally, the water temperature should be about 100°F (38°C). You can use a bath thermometer or test the water with your hand to ensure it’s not too hot.

3. Fill the Tub Appropriately

For infants and toddlers, a small amount of water is sufficient for a bath. Two inches is a general guideline for infants, while for toddlers the water level should come to about your child’s bellybutton.

Keeping Child Safe Bathtime WFMC Health

4. Prevent Slips and Falls

Use a non-slip mat in the bathtub to prevent slipping. Also, consider a soft cover for the faucet to protect your child from bumps and bruises.

5. Use Safe Bathing Products

Choose mild, tear-free soaps and shampoos to protect your child’s sensitive skin and eyes. Always check the labels for any potential allergens or harmful chemicals.

6. Avoid Small Toys That Can Cause Choking

While bath toys can make bath time more fun, ensure they are age-appropriate. Avoid toys that are small enough to be a choking hazard. Additionally, clean bath toys regularly (and check inside hollow ones) to keep them free of mold or mildew.

7. Prepare Everything in Advance

Before starting the bath, make sure you have all necessary items within reach – towels, washcloths, soap, shampoo, toys, fresh diaper, and clothes. This ensures you won’t have to leave your child unattended to grab something.

8. Be Mindful of Electric Appliances

Keep electric appliances like hair dryers or straighteners away from the bathroom during bath time to avoid any risk of electric shock.

9. Drain the Tub Immediately After Use

Once bath time is over, drain the tub immediately. This lowers the risk of drowning and keeps the area safe for other young family members who might wander in after you’re done.

10. Teach Water Safety

As your child grows, teach them about water safety. Explain why they should never be in the bath without an adult present. Enroll them in swimming lessons early so they can learn to hold their breath underwater, among other water safety rules.

By following these simple but important tips, you can make bath time a safe and enjoyable experience for your little one. If you have any additional questions or advice about bath time, make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician.

This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.