How to safely bathe your baby during a heatwave: Expert tips for parents

India Today

29-04-2025

As temperatures rise during the summer months, parents across the country often find themselves wondering how to best care for their babies. One key area of particular concern is bathing, which not only helps cleanse the baby's skin and removes germs but also refreshes the baby, offering a much-needed respite from the hot weather. While a cool bath can be soothing and comfortable, it's essential to approach this routine with care to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for your little one.advertisementBathing babies during the summer is essential for several important reasons. It helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents heat rashes, and keeps the baby cool and refreshed. Given that a baby's skin is 30% thinner than that of adults, it requires extra care in the hot summer months. While speaking to India Today, Dr Dilip Tripathi, Regional Head of Baby & Women's Health Research & Development at Kenvue (known for its iconic brands like Johnson's Baby and Aveeno Baby), explained that choosing the right science-backed products is crucial to avoiding skin irritation and protecting their delicate skin from harmful effects. Here's all you need to know from the expert.HERE ARE A FEW DO'S AND DON'T. PARENTS SHOULD KEEP IN MIND WHILE BATHING THEIR BABY
DOS1. BATHE AT THE RIGHT TIME:advertisementChoose cooler parts of the day, such as the morning or late evening, for bath time. This practice helps reduce the strain on your baby's body temperature regulation, as their ability to adapt to temperature changes is still developing.2. USE LUKEWARM WATER:Although it's tempting to use cold water during the summer, lukewarm water is gentler and safer for your baby's delicate skin. Cold water can cause discomfort, and hot water can strip the natural moisture from the baby's skin.3. KEEP BATHS SHORT AND SWEET:A daily bath not exceeding 15 minutes is preferable. Prolonged exposure to water, even in the heat, can dry the baby's skin.4. FREQUENCYFrequent bathing can strip away the natural oils that protect a baby's delicate skin, potentially leading to dryness or skin irritation. Paediatricians and dermatologists advise limiting baths to no more than 15 minutes. On hotter days, gentle sponging with a soft cloth and lukewarm water can help cool the baby down and keep them fresh without overexposing the skin to water and cleansers.5. PAT DRY AND MOISTURISE:After the bath, gently pat the baby dry with a soft towel. Following this, apply a lightweight, non-sticky moisturiser to help maintain hydration and protect the skin from dryness. This is important, as moisturising can support the skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss, which is particularly crucial for the developing baby's skin.advertisement6. CHOOSE BREATHABLE CLOTHING POST-BATH:Dress your baby in light, breathable fabrics like cotton after the bath. This keeps them cool and comfortable as their body adjusts post-bathing.7. SENSITIVE SKINS NEED SPECIAL CARE: If a baby has sensitive skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, extra care and precautions need to be taken during bath time. The bathing routine should be kept short, and it is recommended to use a soap-free, ph-balanced liquid cleanser that is gentle on the baby's skin and clinically proven to cleanse gently and soothe irritated or damaged skin. It is recommended to look for products enriched with colloidal oatmeal as it can help soothe and protect sensitive skin. It is also advisable to avoid products containing harsh chemicals, which can further irritate sensitive skin conditions and instead opt for those free from dye, parabens, and phthalates.DON'TS1. DON'T OVER-BATHE:In hot weather, it might seem reasonable to increase the number of baths. However, bathing more than once a day can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness or irritation.advertisement2. AVOID HARSH PRODUCTS:Stay away from heavily fragranced soaps or adult bath products. Opt for gentle, hypoallergenic, pH-balanced cleansers formulated specifically for babies.3. SKIP BATH IF BABY SHOWS SIGNS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION:If your baby is excessively sleepy, irritable, or shows signs of dehydration (like a dry mouth or no tears while crying), delay the bath and consult your paediatrician first.4. DON'T BATHE IMMEDIATELY AFTER OUTDOOR EXPOSURE:Let your baby cool down indoors for 15–20 minutes before starting a bath. Sudden temperature changes can be jarring to their system.Bathing your baby in extreme heat can be a soothing ritual when done correctly. Guiding parents with science-backed practices to ensure their little ones stay safe, healthy, and comfortable. When in doubt, always consult your paediatrician for guidance tailored to your baby's unique needs.Sensitive skin requires extra care during the summer months. Babies with conditions like eczema or dry patches may benefit from fewer baths and the use of mild, ph-balanced cleansers and emollients. Always monitor for signs of redness, itching, or peeling, and consult your paediatrician if any irritation persists.5. USE SPECIALISED PRODUCTS FOR BABY 'S DELICATE FACEadvertisementAn ultra-light, gel-cream textured facial gel containing moisturising and soothing ingredients such as Triple oat extract and avocado oil can help manage and prevent skin irritations in infants. These are quick absorption, which is great for summers, clinically proven to improve moisturisation by 51% in just 1 hour.6. AVOID BUBBLE BATHS FOR NEWBORNS AND TODDLERSUse of bubble baths and bath additives should be avoided as these may increase the skin ph and cause irritation.