Bath time is a moment of relaxation for baby, provided the water and room temperature are set correctly. Too hot, the water can burn their delicate skin; too cold, it makes them shiver. Here is how to prepare a safe and pleasant bath.
What is the right water temperature?
Baby's bath water should be lukewarm, around 37 °C. A bath thermometer is the most reliable way to check it. The accurate and safe bath thermometer or the whale bath thermometer go directly in the water and can be read at a glance.
What about the room temperature?
The bathroom should be pleasantly warm, around 22 °C, with no draughts. Prepare everything you need before undressing baby: towel, nappy, clothes, any skincare.
How to prepare the bath step by step
- Fill the bath by turning on the cold water first, then the hot water, to avoid leaving a scalding surface.
- Mix the water with your hand, then check the temperature with the bath thermometer.
- Do not put baby in the water until you have checked the temperature.
- Always keep baby within arm's reach and never take your eyes off them.
- After the bath, dry them immediately and dress them without delay.
How long should the bath last?
A few minutes are enough, roughly 5 to 10 minutes for a newborn. Too long a bath can chill baby or dry out their skin. For a well-run bath, also read how to bathe a newborn.
Bath safety rules
- Never leave baby alone in the bath, even for a second: a child can drown in very little water.
- Use a non-slip bath mat to prevent slipping.
- Limit the temperature of your water heater to avoid any risk of scalding.
- Do not rely on how it feels alone: the thermometer is more reliable than your hand.
After the bath
A poncho bathrobe or a hooded animal bath towel wraps baby as soon as they come out of the water and keeps them warm. Dry the folds, the neck and behind the ears carefully. For older babies, a floating bath toy makes the moment more fun; discover our selection of bath toys.
Frequently asked questions about baby's bath
Should you bathe baby every day?
It is not compulsory: several baths a week can be enough, with a daily wash of the sensitive areas. Ask your paediatrician for advice depending on baby's skin.
What to do if the water is too hot or too cold?
Adjust with cold or hot water, mix and check the temperature again before putting baby back in the water.
Is a bath thermometer essential?
It is not compulsory, but it makes bath time safer by checking the water temperature precisely.
For fever or body temperature, a different type of device is needed: see our guide to the baby thermometer. Find bath equipment in the bath category of the PetitMaxou shop.