Dec 28, 2023
Depending on your child’s age and stage, you might have a love-hate relationship with bath time. Whether you get cheers or tears from your kids when it’s time to get clean, taking a bath is a necessity. But the bathroom can also be a dangerous place. January is National Bath Safety Month, the perfect time to focus on how to minimize harm and hazards when it’s time to splish, splash.
Longtime Bakersfield Pediatrician Dr. Kaye Sykes-McCloskey says it’s not uncommon for us to forget to take proper precautions while in the bathroom.
“Bath safety is something you need to be prepared for and cautious of especially as a first time parent,” says Dr. Sykes-McCloskey. “I would recommend getting as much education as you can before the baby arrives.”
Water Temperature
One of the biggest risks associated with bath time is scald injuries from hot water. Babies and toddlers have extra sensitive skin that can burn at a lower temperature then that of adults. This is why it’s important to test the water temperature before you place them in the bath. One way is to dip your wrist or elbow into the water.
“Every mother and grandmother I know stuck their elbow in the bath to test the water temperature. Its tradition, and probably the best way until you start to get a feel for what is too hot,” says Dr. Sykes-McCloskey.
Beyond the elbow test, you can invest in a water thermometer which provides a precise reading. Experts recommend a range of 98.6°F to 100.4°F for little ones.
Drowning Danger
Drowning accidents can happen in an instant. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics an estimated 87 children die each year from drownings at home. Two-thirds of these incidents took place in the bath. That’s why experts urge you to never leave your young child alone near water.
“Children can slip under the water without making a sound, and drowning can happen very quickly,” says Dr. Sykes-McCloskey. “That’s why it’s so important not to let yourself get distracted when they are in the tub and never ever leave a young child alone. I also tell parents to drain the tub while you are drying your child. Do not leave the room until the bath is empty.”
Dr. Sykes-McCloskey says to minimize distractions make sure to gather all necessary items- soap, shampoo, toys, towels- and place them within reach before putting your child in the bath. Children may be left to bathe unsupervised beginning at 6 years old, but experts caution you to use your parental judgment because you know your child best.
Slips and Falls
The smooth surface of the bathtub can quickly become a slipping hazard when combined with soapy water. One of the ways to minimize the danger of accidental slips and falls is to invest in the right tools. Experts advise that you secure a slip-resistant plastic mat that suctions to the bottom of the tub or consider non-slip stickers stick directly to the tub’s surface and offer added grip without covering the entire tub. Be sure the throw rug outside the tub does not slide when stepped on. Also, consider installing a grab bar for kids to hold onto when stepping in and out of the bath.
Medicine and Toiletry Storage
To prevent accidental poisonings or injuries keep medicine and toiletries out of reach of small children. Bath products, with their vibrant colors and fun packaging can be mistaken for toys or even something edible. Store these items in locked cabinets or on a high shelf that is out of reach of children. Dr. Sykes-McCloskey also recommends purchasing a lock for your toilet seat.
“Toddlers are by nature very curious and may try to explore the toilet, which can be dangerous if they accidentally fall in or get stuck. Toilet seat locks can help prevent these accidents by making it more difficult for children to access.”
Dr. Sykes- McCloskey says a good rule of thumb is to keep the bathroom doors closed at all times, so the kids can’t get in and get in to trouble.
Emergency Preparedness
Accidents can happen, despite your best precautions. Be prepared before an urgent situation occurs by keeping emergency numbers handy, be aware of the nearest medical facilities, and know basic first-aid.
“Every mother and father should be comfortable in infant and child CPR,” says Dr. Sykes-McColskey. “Do your best to be prepared for the possibilities that you aren’t even thinking about.”
Remember that preparation and awareness are key to ensuring that bath time is full of fun and free from risks. We wish you happy splashy in the year ahead!
Make Bath Time Saferwith these important tools
Skip Hop Moby Safety Bath Spout Cover
Make bath time bump-free and fun for baby with Moby, the blue whale. The sleek design includes an adjustable strap that fits snugly on most tub spouts, and a tail that’s also a handy hook, so Moby can hang around when bathtime’s done. $9.99, www.amazon.com
Duck Tub Tattoo Bathtub Safety Treads (Set of 5)
Help prevent slips and falls with these peel and stick adhesive bath treads. Designed to provide reliable slip resistance in tubs, showers and other slippery spots, these friendly duck tub tattoos will help keep your child safe and smiling, bath after bath. $9.70, www.wayfair.com
TheOriginal Gorilla Grip Shower and BathtubMat
This patented design includes and powerful suction grip and is designed to securely stay in place. It also includes hundreds of suction cups that effectively help secure the mat to your tub or shower floor. $22.99, www.amazon.com
Child Safety Magnetic Cabinet Locks
The child safety cabinet locks work on thick cupboard, cabinet or drawers keeping your curious child away from drawers and cabinets filled with dangerous tools or chemicals and giving you peace of mind. $17.95, www.amazon.com
Otteroo MINI
Otteroo baby float is an inflatable neck device that keeps the head above the water while the body is immersed, making bath time extra relaxing for baby. MINI is for babies starting at 2 weeks old (6 - 18lbs). Otteroo urges you to always stay within arm’s reach of your baby while using this product. $29.95, www.otteroo.com.
Longtime Bakersfield Pediatrician Dr. Kaye Sykes-McCloskey says it’s not uncommon for us to forget to take proper precautions while in the bathroom.
“Bath safety is something you need to be prepared for and cautious of especially as a first time parent,” says Dr. Sykes-McCloskey. “I would recommend getting as much education as you can before the baby arrives.”
Water Temperature
One of the biggest risks associated with bath time is scald injuries from hot water. Babies and toddlers have extra sensitive skin that can burn at a lower temperature then that of adults. This is why it’s important to test the water temperature before you place them in the bath. One way is to dip your wrist or elbow into the water.
“Every mother and grandmother I know stuck their elbow in the bath to test the water temperature. Its tradition, and probably the best way until you start to get a feel for what is too hot,” says Dr. Sykes-McCloskey.
Beyond the elbow test, you can invest in a water thermometer which provides a precise reading. Experts recommend a range of 98.6°F to 100.4°F for little ones.
Drowning Danger
Drowning accidents can happen in an instant. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics an estimated 87 children die each year from drownings at home. Two-thirds of these incidents took place in the bath. That’s why experts urge you to never leave your young child alone near water.
“Children can slip under the water without making a sound, and drowning can happen very quickly,” says Dr. Sykes-McCloskey. “That’s why it’s so important not to let yourself get distracted when they are in the tub and never ever leave a young child alone. I also tell parents to drain the tub while you are drying your child. Do not leave the room until the bath is empty.”
Dr. Sykes-McCloskey says to minimize distractions make sure to gather all necessary items- soap, shampoo, toys, towels- and place them within reach before putting your child in the bath. Children may be left to bathe unsupervised beginning at 6 years old, but experts caution you to use your parental judgment because you know your child best.
Slips and Falls
The smooth surface of the bathtub can quickly become a slipping hazard when combined with soapy water. One of the ways to minimize the danger of accidental slips and falls is to invest in the right tools. Experts advise that you secure a slip-resistant plastic mat that suctions to the bottom of the tub or consider non-slip stickers stick directly to the tub’s surface and offer added grip without covering the entire tub. Be sure the throw rug outside the tub does not slide when stepped on. Also, consider installing a grab bar for kids to hold onto when stepping in and out of the bath.
Medicine and Toiletry Storage
To prevent accidental poisonings or injuries keep medicine and toiletries out of reach of small children. Bath products, with their vibrant colors and fun packaging can be mistaken for toys or even something edible. Store these items in locked cabinets or on a high shelf that is out of reach of children. Dr. Sykes-McCloskey also recommends purchasing a lock for your toilet seat.
“Toddlers are by nature very curious and may try to explore the toilet, which can be dangerous if they accidentally fall in or get stuck. Toilet seat locks can help prevent these accidents by making it more difficult for children to access.”
Dr. Sykes- McCloskey says a good rule of thumb is to keep the bathroom doors closed at all times, so the kids can’t get in and get in to trouble.
Emergency Preparedness
Accidents can happen, despite your best precautions. Be prepared before an urgent situation occurs by keeping emergency numbers handy, be aware of the nearest medical facilities, and know basic first-aid.
“Every mother and father should be comfortable in infant and child CPR,” says Dr. Sykes-McColskey. “Do your best to be prepared for the possibilities that you aren’t even thinking about.”
Remember that preparation and awareness are key to ensuring that bath time is full of fun and free from risks. We wish you happy splashy in the year ahead!
Make Bath Time Saferwith these important tools
Skip Hop Moby Safety Bath Spout Cover
Make bath time bump-free and fun for baby with Moby, the blue whale. The sleek design includes an adjustable strap that fits snugly on most tub spouts, and a tail that’s also a handy hook, so Moby can hang around when bathtime’s done. $9.99, www.amazon.com
Duck Tub Tattoo Bathtub Safety Treads (Set of 5)
Help prevent slips and falls with these peel and stick adhesive bath treads. Designed to provide reliable slip resistance in tubs, showers and other slippery spots, these friendly duck tub tattoos will help keep your child safe and smiling, bath after bath. $9.70, www.wayfair.com
TheOriginal Gorilla Grip Shower and BathtubMat
This patented design includes and powerful suction grip and is designed to securely stay in place. It also includes hundreds of suction cups that effectively help secure the mat to your tub or shower floor. $22.99, www.amazon.com
Child Safety Magnetic Cabinet Locks
The child safety cabinet locks work on thick cupboard, cabinet or drawers keeping your curious child away from drawers and cabinets filled with dangerous tools or chemicals and giving you peace of mind. $17.95, www.amazon.com
Otteroo MINI
Otteroo baby float is an inflatable neck device that keeps the head above the water while the body is immersed, making bath time extra relaxing for baby. MINI is for babies starting at 2 weeks old (6 - 18lbs). Otteroo urges you to always stay within arm’s reach of your baby while using this product. $29.95, www.otteroo.com.
