June 2011

You were so prepared for pregnancy and labor and delivery. You read every book about successful parenting. You had the infant seat installed in your car months before the baby even arrived. But how could you possibly prepare for bathing your newborn? You imagine giggles, bubbles, and bliss but what you really get is a slippery, crying baby who hates the water.

Bathing your newborn for the first time can be stressful for you and baby. Following a few guidelines can take the anxiety out of bath time and make the experience a safe and rewarding one.

There are a lot of things to remember when bathing your baby, but most important is to never leave your baby unattended during bath time. A baby can drown in as little as one inch of water. If you have to leave the bathroom, take the baby with you.

It may be difficult, but something you’ll have to learn eventually when it comes to being a parent – be flexible! There are no rules about when or how often a baby needs a bath so let baby be your guide. Making bath time part of a nightly routine is ideal but if baby is happier in the afternoon, go for it.

When you are relaxed and having fun, baby is relaxed and having fun. Talking through what you are doing and what’s next can calm you down as well as baby. Here are a few additional safety tips to help you prepare for bath time:

• Collect all necessary bathing materials before bringing the baby into the bathroom.

• Never add water to the tub while your baby is in it.

• Always check the water temperature before placing your child in the bath tub or bath seat. To prevent scalding, the hottest temperature at the faucet should be no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. In many cases you can adjust your hot water heater. When your child is old enough to turn the faucets, teach him to start the cold water before the hot.

• If using a baby bath seat, never lift the product with baby in it and position the bath seat in the tub so baby cannot reach the faucet or spout.

• Be sure to discontinue use of a product if it is damaged, broken or disassembled. If the bath seat moves or tips while your child is in it, discontinue use. Bath rings should be used with children who are capable of sitting upright unassisted.

It’s also important to look around your entire bathroom and properly childproof to ensure an overall safe experience when utilizing all of the facilities.

• Install no-slip strips on the bottom of the bathtub.

• Put a cushioned cover over the water faucet so your child won’t be hurt if he bumps his head against it.

• Get in the habit of closing the lid of the toilet, and get a toilet lid lock. A curious toddler who tries to play in the water can lose his balance and fall in. Bath time can be loads of fun and a great way for baby to explore the wonderment of water. Enjoy these special moments with your baby. JPMA