Bath time is a fun and (of course) necessary part of every baby’s routine, and is the perfect chance for you to bond with your baby. It’s the time of day when they get to splash around, have fun, and be unencumbered by a diaper and clothes. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to interact with them, talk to them, laugh together, play, and make eye contact.
The Right Temperature Is Critical
It’s also a great way to teach your baby the importance of a routine and the difference between day time and sleep time. Baths are a fun way to wind down before going to bed. Of course, for many new parents, bathing a newborn is absolutely terrifying.
Your baby might need some time getting used to bath time before loving it, and you as a parent may need some practice before getting a routine down completely. Of course, that’s when the question of logistics comes in too.
How long should the bath bath be? What is the right temperature for the bath? Well, it’s of course important for the bath to be at a comfortable temperature that’s not too cold but also not too hot.
Parenthood anxiety is a real thing and it’s only natural to be a little stressed out before figuring out the right way to give a bath. Don’t worry, this is perfectly normal, and the best thing you can do is arm yourself with knowledge and start practicing.
Make The Most Of Bathtime
The right temperature for a bath is a perfect medium in order to make sure your baby is safe and comfortable. Since babies can get cold pretty easily, make sure the bath is more warm than cold. You can aim for about 100 degrees F or a little more, but definitely keep it below 120 degrees. Make sure the room you’re in is also warm and comfortable.
You can set your home’s thermostat to keep your water heater below 120 degrees if you want to avoid any mishaps, just in case. There are also anti-scalding devices that can attach to taps and shower outlets that can help too.
You can check the water’s temperature by using a thermometer. There are plenty of digital thermometers available. There are also baby tubs that come with thermometers built it. You can also test the water with your elbow or wrist. Make sure after you fill up the tub to swirl the water around to avoid hot spots.
Bath Time Shouldn’t Exceed Ten Minutes
Make sure when you’re filling up the tub that it is not too high. A good guide is to fill the tub with two inches of water. Some research has indicated that keeping babies covered up to their shoulders in water helps keep them warm. You can also pour water on their bodies every once in a while to help them stay warm and comfortable.
Always keep a secure but comfy hold on your baby throughout the bath, especially while they’re splashing around. Never ever leave your baby alone in the tub, even for a half of a second. This is a huge drowning hazard, as babies can drown in just an inch of water.
So how long should a bath be? Babies only require a five to ten minute bath at first. Warm water can actually irritate their skin, so don’t exceed ten minutes.
Another tip is warming up a towel in the dryer (but not too warm!) before drying up your baby.
