Once your baby is past the newborn stage, you can bring them in the shower with you to get clean.
It's best not to shower with a newborn baby, since they need their head supported at all times and it's harder for them to regulate their body temperature. Also, experts recommend just sponge baths to clean your baby until their umbilical cord stump has fallen off.
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Before you bring your baby into the shower, make sure the water temperature is comfortable and safe, just as you would for a bath. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends setting your water heater to no higher than 120 degrees to avoid scalding.
The best way to test the temperature is to hold a bath thermometer directly under the water stream – the temperature should be between 90 and 100 degrees. If you don't have a thermometer, test the water on your wrist or elbow — the water should never feel hot and might even be much cooler than your normal shower temperature.
When you bring your baby into the shower for the first time, introduce them gradually and position yourself so the stream of water won't hit their head and face. Keep a small, dry towel nearby to wipe their face if they get upset when it gets wet, or if soap gets in their eyes.
At first, you may want to limit the shower to just a few minutes. Follow your child's lead if they cry, and don't force it. Some children don't enjoy the feeling of water pouring onto them from above, and would rather get clean sitting in a tub of warm water.
Your child can take a shower without being held as soon as they're able to walk. But you'll still need to stay close to make sure they're safe and to handle the soaping, shampooing, and rinsing. You may want to have a "family shower" with your partner and your baby, so you can take turns holding the baby while the other person washes up.
Tips for showering with a baby
- Take extra care not to drop your baby. Your baby will be slippery, and you will be too when you're both wet. If you feel like you can't safely hold your baby in the shower, don't bring them in with you.
- Use non-slip pads or mats both inside and outside of your shower to avoid slipping and falling while holding your baby.
- Have a warm and safe place to set your baby down after you dry them off. (You'll need to towel off, too.)
- Use pump bottles for soap, since it can be hard to squeeze a bottle while holding your baby.
- Use gentle soap for yourself and your baby. Your baby's skin is likely more sensitive than yours, and strong soaps can cause irritation. You'll also want to use a cleanser that won't sting if it gets in your baby's eyes.
- Make sure the water temperature is safe. Don't run the water too hot or too cold for your little one. The ideal temperature is between 90 and 100 degrees.
- Use a moderate water flow (rather than a stronger, more forceful spray) to keep the shower gentle and relaxing for your baby.
- Never leave your baby unattended in the shower. If you need to get out, take your baby with you, even if they're old enough to sit up or stand on their own.
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FAQs
Use lukewarm water — not so hot you steam up the bathroom quickly — and avoid having the spray hit your baby's face. If you prefer your showers on the hotter side, be sure to limit the time your baby is in the shower with you to just a few minutes or so. If you have a partner at home, get them to help.
How do people shower with their babies? ›
Use non-slip pads or mats both inside and outside of your shower to avoid slipping and falling while holding your baby. Have a warm and safe place to set your baby down after you dry them off. (You'll need to towel off, too.) Use pump bottles for soap, since it can be hard to squeeze a bottle while holding your baby.
What are the safety rules when bathing a baby? ›
Safety
- Keep the room warm so your baby does not get cold. Bathe your baby quickly to avoid chilling.
- Keep water around 100° Fahrenheit (F) or 37.8° Celsius (C). ...
- Set water heaters at 120°F (48.9°C) to prevent burns.
- Keep one hand on your baby at all times.
- Never leave your baby alone in any amount of water.
Remember that newborns don't need a bath more than about three times per week. Safety should be the top priority when it comes to bathing your little one. Choose a safe bathing location, use a small amount of mild soap, keep the water warm, and most importantly, never take your eyes off your baby in the tub.
Is it safe to shower with your baby? ›
If you do shower with your baby, it can be a little risky, since the shower is slippery. For safety reasons, wait until your baby is past the newborn stage before bringing them in the shower with you.
What do you do with a baby when you shower? ›
If your baby is getting into things and you are afraid may get hurt, the best thing to do is put them in a pack and play or crib. You can put the pack and play in the bathroom or at the door if it makes things easier and you can enjoy a more peaceful shower.
What is the rule on baby showers? ›
Traditionally, immediate family was out of the running as well when it came to throwing a baby shower. But now, it's much more acceptable for any close friend or family member to throw a shower for the expecting mom!
Can I take my baby to the toilet with me? ›
If the crib is out of earshot from the bathroom, put the baby in a car seat and bring it into the bathroom with you. It's not going to hurt it to keep crying for a few more minutes while you take care of business. Go! Just make sure you wash your hands before picking up your infant again.
Do baby showers honor mom or baby? ›
Traditional Baby Shower
This get-together is held in honor of the mom-to-be and is typically organized and hosted by a close friend.
What is a safety baby shower? ›
Safety Baby Showers
Mothers who attend the showers receive education on home safety, safe sleep, motor vehicle safety and prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome.
What's the best way to hold my newborn in the tub? A secure hold will help your baby feel comfortable — and stay safe — in the tub. Use your nondominant arm to support your baby's head and neck and the other to hold and guide your baby's body into the water, feet first.
What do you wash a baby first when bathing? ›
Start with your baby's head.
Dip the washcloth into the bowl of lukewarm water and gently wipe your baby's face and scalp. It is safe to gently clean over the baby's soft spots. Don't forget to clean the creases in the neck and behind the ears.
How do you bathe a newborn safely? ›
Bathing your baby safely
- The water should be warm, not hot. ...
- Don't add any liquid cleansers to the bath water. ...
- Hold your baby on your knee and clean their face.
- Next, wash their hair with plain water, supporting them over the bowl.
- Once you've dried their hair gently, you can take off their nappy, wiping away any mess.
Use your soapy washcloth and begin by washing your baby's face first. Be careful not to get water in their eyes or mouth. Dip the washcloth in your bucket of water and then repeat step 3 and continue washing the rest of their body, washing their diaper area last. Remember to avoid getting their umbilical cord wet.
How do I shower alone with a newborn? ›
If you are hoping that your baby will happily occupy themselves while you shower; feed them, burp them, change if they need a new diaper, and put them down on the floor of the bathroom to play while you RACE into the shower. Do not wait. Don't fold laundry.
What do guests do at a baby shower? ›
A typical baby shower includes playing games, watching the mother-to-be open gifts, eating, and drinking. However, games aren't a must. Some baby shower hosts and hostesses are foregoing the typical games in favor of other activities. Ask the expecting mother what she thinks about games and what she would like to do!
Can I bathe with my baby? ›
If your baby seems frightened of bathing and cries, try bathing together. Make sure the water isn't too hot. It's easier if someone else holds your baby while you get in and out of the bath.
Does someone have to throw you a baby shower? ›
The point of a baby shower is for your community to "shower" you with gifts. Typically, a close friend or family member will throw your shower, but coworkers or another loved one can host the party.
