Why Some Popular Bath Hacks Can Actually Be Dangerous

January is bath safety month so here's a few tips for parents when it comes to popular bath hacks that you may have seen online or on social media. When it comes to your baby’s safety—especially during bath time—these popular hacks can do more harm than good. In this post, we’ll explore a few common baby bath hacks that could pose serious safety risks, and we’ll offer safer alternatives.

The Laundry Basket Hack: A Tipping Hazard

One popular hack suggests placing your baby in a laundry basket inside the bathtub, instead of using an infant bath tub.  While this may seem like a convenient way to keep your baby contained without spending much money, it comes with several risks:

1. Tipping Over: Laundry baskets are not designed to handle a baby’s movements. If your baby leans too far to one side, the basket can tip over, potentially causing your baby to fall face-first into the water.

2. Sharp Edges and Small Gaps: Many laundry baskets have hard plastic edges or small gaps that can pinch delicate skin or cause minor injuries.

Safer Alternative: Use a baby bathtub specifically designed for your baby's age. These tubs are stable, slip-resistant, have been safety tested, and provide the proper support for your baby during bath time.

Misusing Baby Bath Seats/ Bath Tubs to Prolong Their Use 

Baby bath seats, like the popular Angel Baby Bath Seat, are designed to help support infants who are unable to sit up unassisted. However, some parents try to extend the usability of these products by flipping them over when their child outgrows the intended use. This is dangerous because:

1. Instability: Bath seats are not designed to be flipped or used in any way other than what is specified in the instructions. This is especially dangerous in the water when objects tend float away anyway if not secured properly. Altering their use compromises their stability and safety.

2. Drowning Risk: A flipped bath seat may not securely hold your child, increasing the risk of your baby slipping or falling into the water.

It can take seconds for a baby to injure themselves in the bath, or even drown. 

Safer Alternative: Once your baby outgrows a bath seat/ an infant bath tub, transition to using a non-slip mat in the bathtub and always provide hands-on supervision.

Using the Sink as a Bathtub Without Proper Precautions

Bathing a baby in the sink can be extremely convenient, but it can pose risks if not done correctly:

1. Slippery Surfaces: Sinks are not designed with non-slip surfaces, and a soapy baby can easily slide around, increasing the risk of injury.

2. Hard Edges and Faucets: The hard edges of the sink and protruding faucets can cause bumps and bruises if your baby moves unexpectedly.

3. Hygiene Concerns: Sinks can harbor bacteria, food residues, or cleaning chemical residue if not thoroughly cleaned beforehand. This can expose your baby’s sensitive skin to unnecessary germs or irritants.

Safer Alternative: If you choose to bathe your baby in the sink, use a sink insert designed for infants or something that will create friction. These inserts provide padded support, prevent slipping, and protect your baby from hard surfaces and faucets. Always clean and disinfect the sink thoroughly before bath time and make sure the sink you chose to bathe your baby in doesn't have a faucet too close that can injure your child if they move unexpectedly, or think about using a faucet / spout guard. 

General Bath Time Safety Tips

To ensure a safe and enjoyable bath time experience for your little one, keep these general tips in mind:

1. Always Supervise: Never leave your baby unattended in the bath, even for a moment. Accidents can happen in seconds.

2. Check Water Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the water is warm, not hot (around 98°F or 37°C).

3. Keep Essentials Within Reach: Before starting the bath, gather all the items you’ll need, such as soap, towels, and toys, so you never have to step away. If you are using our hands-free, wearable baby towels, just snap it on around your neck before giving your baby a bath, so remain hands on your baby at all times, instead of holding your towel - making for a safe and easy bath time!

4. Limit Water Depth: For infants, only fill the tub with 2-3 inches of water. Babies can drown even in a few inches of water. 

Bath time should be a safe and enjoyable bonding experience for you and your baby. Some hacks may seem helpful, but they can carry hidden risks. Always read and follow safety directions on all baby products to ensure their proper use. By staying informed and cautious, you can create a secure and loving bath time experience for your little one!