For most parents, there is no better time to hear the pitter patter of little feet than when it is heard splashing on water during baby’s bath time. Most babies seem to enjoy the water and parents simply love those moments when they see their children have fun.

To ensure that every bath time will be safe, however, you need to take necessary precautions. With everything so wet and slippery in the bathroom, things can happen in an instant. The golden rule then is to NEVER leave your child alone in the bath, not even for a split second.

Prepare everything before the bath. Before turning on the water, gather all the bath supplies you need (towels, bath thermometer etc.). Don’t even think about answering the telephone or the doorbell if you’re not bringing your child with you.

Keep the tub safe for your baby. Before using the tub, make sure that it is clean and free from grime. Use safe and natural household cleaning solutions that leave no toxic chemical residues like BabyGanics’ tub and tile cleaner, Scrub a Tub. Place a non-slippery rubber mat on the floor of your tub and prepare a baby bath seat as well. Never put your child in the tub while the water is still running. His skin can get burned if the water accidentally gets too hot, or the water could end up getting too deep. Two or three inches of water is good enough.

Watch the water temperature. The bath water should never be hotter than 120 degrees F. Any higher and your baby can get seriously burned. Set your home’s water heater gauge to 120 degrees F in advance. You can also use a bath thermometer that is encased in a floating rubber toy to check the water temperature.

Keep away electronic items. Hairdryers and other electronic equipment should be kept out of your baby’s reach and far from the tub.

Use organic mild soap and shampoo. Plain water will usually suffice to clean your baby’s body. But when you need to use soap and shampoo, do choose the ones that are mild and organic. Harsh chemicals tend to cause skin allergies or irritations.

When you do it right and safely, there is no doubt that bath time with baby can be truly fun for both you and your child.