Child Safety in the Shower and Bath: Tips Every Parent Should Know

Bath time can be one of the best parts of the day—it’s where kids get to splash, play, and wind down before bedtime. But the bathroom can also be one of the most accident-prone spots in the house. Slippery floors, hot water, and curious little explorers make it a priority to think about safety just as much as fun.

Here are some simple, practical tips to help keep your kids safe in the bath or shower.

Watch the Water Temperature

Children’s skin is more sensitive than adults’, so what feels warm to you might actually be too hot for them. The safe water temperature for kids is around 100°F. You can check it with your wrist or, even better, use a bath thermometer. Setting your home’s water heater to 120°F or lower is also a smart way to prevent accidental burns.

Use Non-Slip Surfaces

Bath time often means playtime, which can quickly turn into slip time. Adding a non-slip mat inside the tub or shower gives your little one some extra grip. Don’t forget the bathroom floor—keeping a bath rug or mat just outside the tub helps prevent tumbles when wet feet hit tile.

Keep Essentials Within Arm’s Reach

If you’re bathing a young child, have everything you need—soap, washcloths, towels—ready to go before the water even starts running. That way, you’re not tempted to step away “just for a second.” Even short moments of distraction can be risky when kids are in the tub.

Supervision Is Non-Negotiable

This one might sound obvious, but it’s worth repeating: never leave a young child unattended in the bath or shower. Children can slip or get into trouble in just a matter of seconds. Staying close by ensures you’re right there if they need help—and it also makes bath time a bonding experience instead of just a chore.

Child-Friendly Fixtures and Accessories

Little adjustments can make a big difference. Consider:

• Faucet covers to prevent bumps and bruises.
• Handheld showerheads so you can control the water flow more easily.
• Built-in shelving or baskets to keep shampoos and soaps out of reach of tiny hands.

For Babies, Toddlers, and Kids Who Don’t Like Bath Time

Some kids love the water. Others? Not so much. If your little one resists bath time, there are ways to make it less stressful—for both of you.

• Make it playful: Bath toys, colorful cups, or even just a set of plastic spoons can turn bath time into a game.
• Sing or tell stories: A silly song or short story can distract nervous toddlers and make the time pass quickly.
• Ease them in: For babies and toddlers, start with shallow water and gradually add more so they feel secure.
• Routine helps: Try to keep bath time around the same time each day, so it becomes predictable and less of a battle.
• Stay calm yourself: Kids pick up on your energy—if you’re relaxed and smiling, they’re more likely to follow your lead.

Sometimes it’s not about getting through bath time as quickly as possible but about making it a comforting routine that feels safe and fun.

Teach Safety as They Grow

As children grow, they naturally want more independence—including in the bathroom. The transition from supervised bath time to showering on their own can feel like a big step, but with a little guidance, you can make it safe and comfortable.

Start by teaching them how to check the water temperature before stepping in, and remind them that hot water can be dangerous. Show them the importance of using the bath mat so they don’t slip when getting out. Encourage them to keep soap, shampoo, and towels organized and within easy reach so they don’t have to stretch, climb or walk across a slippery floor for anything.

This is also the perfect time to build healthy habits—like rinsing soap off completely, turning off the water when it’s not in use, and putting their dirty clothes in the hamper. Not only do these practices keep them safe, but they also help them take pride in caring for their bathroom space. With your support and a little consistency, kids will quickly feel confident managing bath time on their own. Building these habits early helps them stay safe even when you’re not right there.

Final Thoughts

Bath time should be safe, easy, and maybe even a little fun. With a few precautions—like watching the water temp, using non-slip surfaces, and staying close—you can keep your little ones protected while still letting them enjoy splashing around. It’s all about creating a bathroom space that’s as safe as it is comfortable.