Help, My Baby Hates Baths! Ten Ideas for Happier Bath Times.

Many parents hold the idyllic vision of bathing their baby as they peacefully gaze up into their eyes. But for some of us, the dream is quickly shattered as we struggle to wash a wiggly, grizzly little one who wants out of the water ASAP.

Some parents manage bathtime dramas by reducing the frequency of baths, but when your baby is struggling with eczema, consistent daily baths can often be a vital part of their eczema management plan. Daily lukewarm baths with gentle baby skincare products can help wash away triggers like sweat and pet dander that may be sitting on the skin, and serve as an opportunity to soothe and nourish the skin.

Why do some babies hate the bath?

If you’re stuck in a rut of daily bathtime battles with your bub, here are ten ways to create a happier, more enjoyable experience for all.

1. It’s all in the timing

Having your little one in a good mood can make all the difference in how they tolerate the bath. Bath time doesn’t have to be just in the evening - choose a time of day when your little one isn’t hungry or tired and is in a good mood. 

2. Keep the room warm

Feeling cold can upset many little ones. In the cooler months, especially, getting babies undressed before bath or nappy change time can be a chilly, uncomfortable experience. And it can be even more uncomfortable to remove them from a warm bath into the cold air! Consider using a small space heater for the bathroom during bath time to keep it cozy and lessen the temperature shock. When taking baby out of the bath, wrap them using a hooded towel to keep their little body and head as warm as possible.

3. Use a damp cloth on their chest

Soaking a washcloth in baby’s warm bathwater and placing it on their chest can help keep them warmer during bath time. 

4. Fill the bath with your baby in it

Some babies don’t like the sensation of being lowered into water. Instead, you can try placing your little one in the bath, then letting the water run and fill it up. Just be careful that the water coming out of the tap is neither too hot nor too cold for your little one - a bath thermometer can be handy in this case. 

5. Just add bubbles

Have you ever met a baby or toddler who doesn’t love bubbles? When they’re old enough, adding some gentle bubbles to their bath using a fragrance-free, sulphate-free wash like our Natural Shampoo and Body Wash can help bring some foamy fun into bath time. 

6. Try all of the toys

Choose some fun bath toys and see what your little one likes! There are so many fun, interactive bath toys available on the market to captivate their attention and make bath time more enjoyable for them (and you). 

7. Take baby out of the room before pulling the plug

The sound of water draining from the bath or sink can be scary for some little ones, and make them more hesitant around being in the bath. Consider having someone remove them from the room before you pull the plug.  

8. Amp up the distractions

Sing, put on music, play peek-a-boo or round-and-round the garden on repeat. Whatever it takes to help take their attention away from the water and onto you!

9. Delay shampooing and always choose tear-free products

Many babies don’t like the feeling of having their hair washed, so delaying it until the end of bath time can be a good idea. Always choose a tear-free shampoo in case some of the suds get in their eyes. A bath visor and rinsing cup or jug can also be helpful in gently directing water away from their face and eyes. 

10. Share bath time

If separation is what's upsetting your baby during bath time, or they need some extra reassurance and physical contact, consider taking a bath together. Of course, you’ll need to ensure your bathwater is at a lukewarm temperature and that you have a secure place for your little one while they’re in the bath. Sometimes, taking a few baths together can help give babies the confidence they need to settle into the water in their baby bath.

While many babies get used to the bath over time, some may have more complex reasons behind their distress during bath time. If your little one continues to struggle with baths, it’s something worth discussing with a healthcare professional to investigate the possible cause.

This blog post was brought to you and your family with love from the Itchy Baby Co. team x.

Disclaimer: Information provided is of a general nature only, and you should always consult your medical professional.