How often should kids have baths?
Bathing your young child 2-3 times a week is usually enough to keep them clean. But a bath every day is fine if your child gets dirty from playing or enjoys bath time, especially as part of a relaxing and calming bedtime routine.
You do need to wash children’s faces and genitals every day.
How long should kids stay in the bath?
If your child enjoys bath time, it’s OK for them to stay in the bath for as long as they’re happy and comfortable.
But if your child has dry skin, it’s better to give them shorter, lukewarm baths.
Do kids need soap and shampoo?
Avoid using soap, because soap can dry out your child’s skin. You can use a mild cleanser instead if needed.
Your child’s hair needs washing with shampoo only when they’re more active or you notice their hair looks oily or dirty.
Do you need to buy a special bath for your child?
No. Your child can use a baby bath until they’re too big to fit comfortably. Then it might be easier to bath them in the big bath, if you have one.
Another option is to shower with your child. Keep your child’s face away from the pouring water and make sure the water isn’t too hot.
How can you prevent drowning in the bath?
Children can drown in a few seconds in very shallow water.
Constant adult supervision is the key to drowning prevention. Stay with your child at all times when they’re in the bath. Never leave older children or siblings to supervise. They don’t have the skills to react to an emergency.
Read more about how to prevent drowning in the bath.
How can you prevent scalds in the bath?
To prevent scalds in the bath, the water temperature should be between 37°C and 38°C. Always check the temperature before you put your child in the bath.
Read more about safe bath temperature and how to prevent scalds.
How can you prevent slips and falls in the bath or shower?
Put a non-slip mat on the bottom of the bath tub or on shower floor so your child won’t slip.
How can you make bath time fun for your child?
Many children enjoy bath time. To make bath time fun, you just need:
- the tub you normally bath your child in
- a few things for your child to play with, like simple plastic cups and containers, soft washcloths and so on
- yourself or another adult to talk and play with.
Get more ideas for bath time play and learning.
How can you handle your child’s fear of the bath?
Some young children are afraid of the bath. If your child is afraid of the bath, take their fears seriously, because they’re very real to them. You’ll need to be patient with your child as they learn to enjoy bath time.
Read more about how to help your child overcome a fear of the bath.