Baby bathtubs come in different shapes and sizes. Some bathtubs are used in the sink, while others are stand-alone or can be used in the adult-sized tub. The biggest challenge you are likely to face when bathing a baby in a baby bathtub is the fear of slipping.
Luckily, you can fix a sling on the bathtub for support and prevent them from slipping. Do you know how to use a sling in a baby bathtub? In this article, we shall guide you on how to use a baby bathtub with a sling.
Baby Bath Tub Sling, what is it?
A baby bathtub sling is simply a cloth or mesh sling that is attached to the bathtub to hold and support a baby during the bath.
It can be fixed in such a way that the baby is in contact with water or barely in contact.
Some bathtubs come with a sling, such as the First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe Newborn Tub, while for others, you have to purchase the sling separately.
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How to use a baby bath tub with a sling?
Gone are the day when bathing a baby was a stressful experience.
Before the slings came, parents used to fear that the baby would slide in the bathtub or slip through their hands and get hurt when bathing.
A sling holds the baby better and provides support and comfort; thus, giving parents the confidence to bathe the baby.
Steps to using a sling on a baby bath tub
Using a sling on a baby bathtub is not difficult if you follow these steps.
- Fix the sling to your desired height on the baby bathtub.
Since the sling is adjustable, you can choose to have it floating above the water so that the baby does not come into contact with the water. This works great for babies who scream their lungs out when dipped in water.
Another option is to adjust the sling so that it is at a height where it will come into contact with the water. A good option for babies who enjoy being soaked in water during a bath.
- Raise the head
Slings are designed in a way that there is the head side and the legs side. When fixing it, make sure the head side is positioned slightly higher than the leg side so that water does not get into the baby’s ears, eyes, or nose.
This can be done by adjusting the straps on the head side by making them shorter so that it is raised higher.
- Bathwater
Add bathwater into the tub and ensure it is warm enough but not hot or cold.
- Bath the baby
Place the baby in the tub and give them a nice warm bath.
The do’s and don’ts when using a baby bath tub with a sling
Do’s
- Do have all the bath essentials near you such as towels, clothes, diapers, oil, lotion, and soap shampoo among others.
- Do make sure the sling is attached securely
- Do rinse the sling and dry it after every bath to prevent mold
- Do make sure the baby is well positioned on the sling and raised above the water.
Don’ts
- Don’t leave your baby unattended in the bathtub in a sling
How long does to use the sling in a baby bath?
Whether your baby loves the sling or not, it will come at a time when you will no longer need to use the sling during the bath.
Most slings are recommended for use for up to 3 months. However, the right time to stop using the sling depends on a few factors.
Depending on the parent, it can be discontinued as early as 8 weeks or as late as when the baby can roll over or sit up. One mom says she gave up the sling when her 8-week-old started doing a half role. As a result, she decided to give her a bath in the tub instead of the sling.
Thus, the optimal moment to stop depends only on you and your baby.
Bathing baby at night time or day time; which is the right choice?
Bathing baby at night time or day time; which do you prefer?
Most parents (I included) find that giving our babies a bath before bedtime makes them more relaxed and helps to calm them down. I too prefer to take my showers at night just before bed as it relaxes my muscles after a long day at work.
Nighttime bathing definitely works for nearly everyone, babies, toddlers, and adults alike.
But, what about day time?
Well, some parents prefer to bathe their babies during the day because it is convenient and practical for them.
Nonetheless, whether you prefer night time or day time, there are some things you must consider when it comes to bathing your baby, which we shall look at in this article.
Related: Learn more – Perfect time for bathing the baby
Factors to consider when bathing baby at night time or day time
Avoid cold
The reason why some parents prefer day time over night time bathing is to avoid cold.
Babies can become cold very fast since they cannot regulate their own body temperature. So when there is a little sunshine, babies tend to enjoy their bath since it is warm.
If night time is more convenient for you, you shouldn’t worry about your baby getting cold if you make the room warm enough.
In both cases, always remember to use warm water for your baby’s bath.
Some parents use a bath thermometer to test the water but you can also go the traditional way of testing using your elbow. If the water feels hot to you, then it is not suitable for your baby.
Do not interfere with the baby’s sleep
Creating a solid bedtime routine is very important for your baby.
Bathing is part of a bedtime routine for parents who prefer bathing their kids at night.
Babies get used to things that you do to them or with them before bedtime. However, if you skip one of these things, you may interrupt their schedule and even a chance to have a good night’s sleep.
So what do you do when you forget to bath your baby at the time she or he is used to?
It is very normal to get caught up with other things, like entertaining visitors and preparing dinner, and forget to follow through with your baby’s routine.
Therefore, if your baby falls asleep before their routine bath, professionals recommend that you should not wake them up for a bath. This can interfere with their sleep, and rather than the bath helping them to relax and fall back asleep, it may actually awaken them.
Baby should not be hungry or too full
Although you can bath your baby any time of the day, it is recommended that you do not bath them when they are hungry or immediately after a feed.
A hungry baby or one who is too full will not respond well to the stimulation of a bath. In fact, it may be extremely difficult for you since the baby might cry uncontrollably through the bath.
No need for soap every time
First, the type of soap you use to bath your baby is very important. Some soaps can dry out the skin, while scented ones may cause blocked nose or skin reactions.
So you should be careful when choosing a bath soap for your baby. In most cases, unscented bar soap is considered more suitable.
While you should use an unscented soap meant for sensitive skin, there is no need to use soap every bath time. Warm water with a soft washcloth can help to clean the baby.
However, if your area has hard water, a mild liquid cleanser can work best because using water only may dry out the baby’s skin.
When to start bathing baby every night?
In most cases, your baby will get his or her first bath at the hospital.
Once you get home, it is up to you when to start bathing your baby at night. You can start immediately after you get home or wait for a day or two, depending on how you will schedule your baby’s bath time.
As we have seen earlier, the perfect bathing time depends on your convenience. If you are too busy during the day, then bathing at night should work just fine.
How often to bath baby?
According to Mayoclinic.org, it is not necessary to bath a baby (particularly a newborn) every day. This is because too much bathing dries out the baby’s skin and cause skin problems such as eczema.
Bathing three times a week is enough for a baby. Just make sure you pay special attention to the neck and face after each feeding and diaper area during diaper changes.
Where to bath baby?
Where to bath your baby mainly depends on your comfort. You can use the kitchen sink, your bath tub, or your baby’s bath tub.
For many years, the kitchen sink was a favorite among most parents.
However, times have changed. Parents no longer have to place their babies directly into the sink because specially designed plastic and foam tubs have been introduced.
These tubs give the baby a more secure surface for support during a bath. Also, if you are recovering from delivery, you can place the tub on a raised surface so that you do not have to bend it.
See also: Baby Bathtub For Sink – Puj Tub or Puj Flyte
Conclusion
To conclude, how to use a baby bath tub with a sling is not difficult. You simply attach the sling to the tub, adjust the head position, add bath water, and bath the baby. The only challenge may come when adjusting the straps to suit your baby’s desire especially when he doesn’t like being soaked in water.
Moreover, the right time to bath your baby is entirely up to you. You may find it convenient to bathe your baby at night while another parent may prefer day time. You do not have to wash your baby every day; rather 3 times a week is enough for a newborn to prevent drying of the skin.
In addition, unless you live in a hard water area, it is not necessary to use soap every time you give your baby a bath. Water-only baths every other day work great if you live in a soft water area.
Related: Reviews of The Best Baby Bath Tub In 2023
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The best time for a baby to have a bath is before bedtime. My baby girl seems to enjoy baths, and she sleeps like an angel after her night bath. Choosing the right soap is also very important. Baby’s skin is so sensitive, and you have to be very careful when selecting products for it.