Bath Safety for Infants and Toddlers

Bath Safety Tips

Keeping the tub water low is a key bath safety practice. When you overfill the tub, you’re putting your child in danger and risking water intake. Two or three inches is a good water level for most babies and toddlers—it provides them with enough water to splash around in, but not so much that they’re swimming.

Pay attention to the products you choose for your child. Adult soaps can be harsh on children’s skin and painful in their eyes. Opt for a tear-free soap that won’t irritate your children’s eyes and a gentle shampoo that isn’t too hard on their hair.

Of course, the goal is to prevent slipping in the tub, but in case a fall does happen, make sure you’re prepared. Preemptive bath safety involves installing faucet covers and corner guards. That way, if your child slips or falls, there are fewer things for them to get hurt on.

Emergency Preparedness

If you have or care for a child, learning CPR and basic first aid can make a big difference in bath safety. Knowing what to do in an emergency is important, and ensuring you have emergency numbers listed nearby is just as vital.

FAQs

Are bath bombs safe for kids?

Most bath bombs are just fine. However, it’s wise to look out for ingredients that might cause skin inflammation. Keep an eye on the child while they’re using the bath bomb to make sure they don’t ingest anything.

What is a safe bubble bath for kids?

Bubble baths can be safe for children, but they often aren’t. The soaps used for bubble baths can cause skin irritation and, in severe cases, urinary tract infections. In particular, bubble baths can be dangerous for children under three years old since they’re more likely to receive irritations or infections from bubble baths.

For kids age four and up, limit bubble baths to 10 minutes or less to avoid drying out their skin. Choose a variety with a label that says it’s hypoallergenic and tear-free. If your child is prone to eczema or has especially sensitive skin, opt for one that is fragrance-free as well.

Or, avoid bubble bath altogether and stick with body wash. You can pour a little in the bath water and use a kitchen whisk to stir it up until it’s bubbly.

Are Epsom/magnesium salt baths safe for kids?

Epson and magnesium salt baths can have multiple benefits for your child. However, keep bath safety in mind and make sure you’re supervising your child closely to keep the salty bath water away from their mouth.

Are oatmeal baths safe for kids?

Oatmeal baths are great for kids and can help with rashes, inflammation, and more. Make sure the package is sturdy. If the oatmeal leaks out, it’ll necessitate a big clean-up.

Are ice baths dangerous?

The short answer is yes, ice baths can be dangerous for children. While ice baths can have multiple benefits for adults, if you put a small child in icy water, you’re risking hypothermia and other complications.

Is it dangerous to take a bath during a thunderstorm?

Yes, it is. Lightning can find its way to almost any water in your home. To keep everyone safe, avoid handwashing, bathing, showering, etc., in a thunderstorm.

Big Blue Swim School

A consistent bath routine is important to bath safety. For additional water safety, register your child for swimming classes with Big Blue Swim School today! We can teach them how to swim and navigate water, lowering risks during bath time.

Resources:

Safety is an important topic, and taking the proper precautions to keep bath time safe for your children is vital. Big Blue Swim School is here to help educate parents and guardians on what to do and what not to do when it comes to a safe bath for children.

Preparing for a Safe Bath

Before thinking about turning on the water, make sure you have the proper supplies to set you up for bath safety success. Ensure everything that you need is within arm’s reach so you don’t have to take your eyes off your child. Even if you have a bath mat, sometimes it’s a good idea to place a towel on the floor as well, just to make sure it’s nice and dry to prevent slipping!

Avoid leaving soap on the floor, as it can be slippery when stepped on. Something else to keep in mind is that certain objects can retain too much water and grow mold inside, so select your child’s bath toys carefully.

Water temperature is vital to a safe bath. Be sure to test the temperature yourself before placing your child in the water. Keeping the temperature between 98°F and 100°F is good practice. Communicating with your child about the proper temperature and listening to their preferences can keep bath time both safe and fun.

The tub’s surface can be slick, so consider placing a rubber mat in the tub to prevent your child from slipping. Choosing a colorful mat that makes your bath not only safe but stylish can also be a fun way to get your child engaged in and excited about bath time.

Supervision and Engagement

Bath safety doesn’t just include keeping your supplies nearby, but also staying nearby so you can step in immediately if necessary. If you need to leave the room, ask another adult to keep watch over the child to ensure maximum safety.

Depending on a child’s age, keeping a hand on the child at all times might be helpful or necessary, whether it’s a comforting hand on your little one’s shoulder or a firm but gentle support on their back. That way, you’re ready to jump into action and can pick your child up and lift them out of the bath if necessary.

It’s best to keep baths short. This reduces the risk of your child slipping as they get acclimated to the water. You’re also limiting the chance of your little one growing too cold and shivering as they get out.