Bathing Safety Basics

• Never leave a baby or toddler unattended—even for a moment.
• Always check water temperature before placing the child in the tub; ideal: 37–38°C (98–100°F).
• Fill the tub with only 2–4 inches of water for infants; slightly more for toddlers under supervision.
• Use a non-slip mat or surface to prevent slipping.
• Keep all bath items (soap, shampoo, towel) within reach before starting.

Bathing Techniques

• Support the head and neck of infants at all times; hold securely during washing.
• Wash from clean to dirty (face → body → diaper area) to avoid spreading germs.
• Use mild, fragrance-free baby soaps and shampoos to avoid irritation.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
• Pat dry gently, especially skin folds, to prevent irritation or infection.

Bathing Habits & Routine

• Establish a consistent bath routine to provide comfort and predictability.
• Bathing frequency: 2–3 times per week for newborns; daily or every other day for toddlers, depending on activity.
• Keep bath time short (5–10 minutes for infants) to avoid chilling.
• Make bath time engaging with gentle talking, songs, or toys—but always supervise.

Common Mistakes & Nuances

• Leaving toddlers unattended—even in a few inches of water.
• Using very hot water, risking burns.
• Bathing on slippery or unstable surfaces.
• Allowing children to hold bath items that can tip or spill water.
• Bathing too long, leading to dry skin or chilling.

Additional Resources

• 💜 AAP Infant Bathing & Skin Care Guidelines
• 💜 CDC Infant & Toddler Bathing Safety
• 💜 Back to Resources Hub