Can I Bath my Baby in the Sink?
A question that often comes up: can I bath my baby in the sink? And to be fair, it’s one that we asked ourselves back when our own children were tiny- and presumably our own parents pondered the same, too! So we thought we’d settle the debate once and for all, and give you the low down on sink baths for baby- whether you should do it, what you need to think about and why it might be a good idea to try it after all!
Why bath your baby in the sink?
There are many reasons why new parents consider bathing their baby in the sink. Some families may only have a shower in their bathroom, or they might not have access to a baby bath when they bring their new baby home. Other families might just be following on a tradition that has lasted generations!
Before the boom in the nursery industry (and way before there were so many new baby essentials to add to your shopping lists!) lots of families would bath their baby in the sink because there simply wasn’t any alternative. These days, baby bath tubs are aplenty, but still lots of parents decide that sink baths are a lot more convenient- if it works for you, then why not?
Bathing your baby in the sink vs a baby bath
If you’re not sure whether or not to fill the sink or splash out on a baby bath, then it might be a good idea to consider the pros and cons of each.
Use less water
Sink baths tend to use less water as you’ve got a smaller space to work with, which is a huge plus for many. Not only will this cut down on water bills, but it’s a huge win for the planet too.
Easier on your back
Standing at the sink can be a lot kinder to your back than having to bend over a baby bath on the floor. Sink baths can also be a lot easier for new mums recovering from a c-section tor this reason too.
Quick and easy
It’s considerably faster and less hassle to fill the sink to give your baby a bath, than it is to get everything ready for the baby baht tub. Plus, you can have all your equipment ready to go on the draining board so it’s more easily accessible too.
Location is key
Lots of kitchen sinks tend to be by the window in the kitchen and in cooler weather, this might not be ideal. The good thing about baby baths is that you can move them to water parts of the house when you need to.
Not all sinks are sized the same
Mot baby bath tubs will come in more or less the same size and shape, designed for small babies to use. Your sink can be deeper, shallower, smaller, bigger… not all sinks are great for sink baths so it’s worth checking the logistics before you write off investing in a tub.
Consider your cleaning products
We’ll go over cleaning your sink later on, but for now it’s worth noting that you definitely will need to clean your sink before and after your baby has their bath- so consider what products you’re going to be using.
Safety guidelines for sink baths
If you decide to go for it and try a sink bath for your baby, then it’s important to follow safety guidelines, just as you would during a normal bath time. Read our bathtime safety guidelines, and make sure you also follow the extra precautions below:
- Keep all kitchen utensils away from baby’s reach at all times
- Don’t keep bathtime products in the same place as you keep food
- Don’t place bathtime products onto surfaces where food has been prepared
- Choose a time where the kitchen isn’t being used
Essential equipment for sink baths
Just like a ‘normal’ baby bathtime, there are essential items you really need if you’re going to go for it and give your baby a sink bath. We recommend:
- Cuddledry handsfree towel to wrap your baby in afterwards (wear it before you start so that you’re ready to go)
- A bath insert to keep your baby safe and secure and to reduce the chance of slipping
- A soft bamboo cloth to cover the taps
- A basket containing all the other bits you need- bath thermometer, nappies and clothes for changing into, equipment for a feed etc
How to bath your baby in the sink
Ready to go? Here’s a really quick guide on how to do it successfully.
Clean the kitchen sink
First step is to clean the sink throughly. Remember that most sink baths take place in the kitchen and this is where food is prepared, and other cleaning products are used- so this step cannot be skipped.
Thoroughly rinse the sink with got water, then sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda in the bottom and around the sides. Clean the sink well, then rinse and you’re good to go. Alternatively, you can use baby safe cleaning products, but make sure you rinse it all away properly afterwards.
Washing your baby
When you’ve filled the sink, placed your insert and checked the temperature, you’re ready to go.
- Use the Cuddledry handsfree towel to keep two hands free to safely and gently lower your baby into the water, keeping one hand underneath their bottom and your forearm supporting the head and neck.
- Use the other hands to gently scoop water on to your baby to keep them warm.
- Use a soft bamboo washcloth to give them a wash.
- When you’re ready, lift baby out of the sink and into your arms for a cuddle.
Remember to clean the sink throughly once you’re finished, so that it’s ready for other uses.
