Water temperature for bathing a newborn: adjusting and measuring

Already on the first evening after being discharged from the maternity hospital, you will have to bathe your newborn baby yourself. And despite the many articles you’ve read on this topic, you’re a little scared: how to do everything right so that your baby likes it and doesn’t cry? What should the water temperature be for bathing a newborn? Bathing is one of the important procedures along with navel treatment, which must be done daily. It is designed to cleanse the child’s skin, harden him, calm him and give him pleasant sensations.

Why is it important to monitor the water temperature?

Bathing a baby from the first days of his birth will become a nightly event. Water procedures for a newborn last only a few minutes. Bathing should be comfortable and soothing. Important information about how to bathe a newborn baby for the first time at home>>>

When preparing for a bath, it is important to take into account the characteristics of the body of a very small person and properly prepare the water for the bath:

The water should not be extremely hot or too cold;

Thermoregulation of the infant's body has not yet been established, so incorrect water temperature when bathing can cause the baby to overheat or become hypothermic.

Hot water helps steam the skin;

Children's delicate skin has not yet developed immunity to infections, so in a steamed state it becomes vulnerable to bacteria.

Too cold water in a baby bath can harm the baby’s urinary system and subsequently cause discomfort when urinating.

When do newborns get their first bath?

There are different opinions regarding when you can start bathing your newborn. Some pediatricians argue that water procedures should be performed only after the umbilical wound has healed.

This is approximately 10-14 days after the baby is born. Until this time, experts recommend keeping the body clean by wiping with wet wipes or a soft towel soaked in boiled water.

Other pediatricians believe that you can bathe your baby immediately or on the second day after discharge from the maternity hospital. This is approximately the fourth or fifth day after birth. Some doctors recommend taking baths with boiled water with the addition of herbal infusions.

Experts say that medicinal plants promote healing of the umbilical wound. Many mothers cannot decide when is the best time to start bathing their baby. It is recommended to consult with a local pediatrician who visits the child in the first days after he returns home.

The doctor will examine the baby, assess the condition of his umbilical wound and tell you when it is best to start water procedures, and give advice on bathing.

Every week a visiting nurse will visit the home to examine the baby.

If she notices any abnormalities in the condition of the umbilical wound (inflammation, suppuration), she will advise you to stop bathing and begin treatment with a manganese solution, brilliant green or hydrogen peroxide. As a rule, improvements occur after a couple of days from the start of treatment. Therefore, you should not worry too much if the umbilical wound is slightly inflamed. But you cannot neglect a pathological condition: this is fraught with complications.

The correct water temperature for bathing a small child

The newborn was recently in the womb and was surrounded by amniotic fluid at the most comfortable temperature for him - 37-38 degrees Celsius. This is the water temperature that will be most suitable for bathing your baby in the bath. Read about how to choose a bathtub for bathing a newborn>>>

We adults are used to relaxing for a long time in a hot bath. This bathing option is unacceptable for a baby.

For adults, the water temperature for bathing a baby at 37-38 degrees will seem cool. However, a baby’s skin is so delicate and sensitive that this temperature of water for bathing a baby is just the most comfortable. Warm water:

will calm the child and help heal the umbilical wound;
will help the small body develop immunity against various infections;
will help to gradually develop and establish the process of thermoregulation of a small organism.

Rules for bathing a baby

We are preparing a place in the bathroom where it is most convenient to place the bathtub. You can put it on a stool or in a large bathtub.
We are preparing the water. If the umbilical wound has not healed, then the water should be boiled.
Check to see if there is a mug or small ladle to rinse the baby.
We fill up about a quarter of the bath with water. Check the temperature with a thermometer or elbow. If desired, add foam or herbal decoction.
We put up a slide.
We close the bathroom.
We are preparing the child.
We undress the baby on the changing table. If the room is warm, you can take air baths for a few minutes. Then we swaddle the head, but not tightly.
We carefully place the baby on the slide, monitor the child’s well-being, the color of his skin, and the large fontanel.
First, carefully wash the baby’s arms, legs, body, then the child’s head, trying to protect the eyes from water. At the end, rinse the baby with clean water. Bathing a newborn should begin with five minutes, gradually increasing the amount of time to 15 minutes.

For more information on how to swaddle a newborn and at what age a child should be swaddled, read the article by a pediatrician.

How to prepare bathing water at the ideal temperature?

The process of preparing a bath for a baby is simple. You just need to take into account the following rules:

To bathe a very young child, it is recommended to boil the bath water and then cool it;
You can add chamomile or string;
The temperature of the water in the bath can be measured using a water thermometer;

To do this, place the thermometer at the bottom of the bath and then add water. Wait until the water cools to the required temperature, or dilute the water with chilled boiled water.

The water must be stirred so that the temperature of the entire liquid is uniform, then the thermometer will show the most reliable figure;
The water temperature for bathing a newborn should be no higher than 38 degrees Celsius;
If you don’t have a water thermometer at hand, you can use the old “old-fashioned” method of measuring the temperature of the water in a baby’s bath;

Bend your arm and submerge your elbow joint in the water. If the water temperature seems comfortable for your elbow, then it will be ideal for bathing your baby.

Interesting! The fact is that our skin in the elbow area is very sensitive. And if the water seems normal for the palm, for the more sensitive parts of the body it may seem quite hot.

From time immemorial, many mothers have measured the temperature of the water in the baby’s bathtub with their elbow and are not mistaken.

Since the daily bathing of the baby lasts no more than a few minutes, there is no need to worry that the water will cool down and the child will freeze. The overall water temperature will drop by 1-2 degrees, which will not harm the baby.

Important! Pay attention to how warm it is in the room where you bathe your newborn. The air temperature should not be lower than 25 degrees.

Thus, when removing your baby from the bath, you do not risk catching a cold. Read about what temperature should be in the room for a newborn>>>

For information on the principles of proper bathing of newborns, watch the video:

After water procedures

The parents take the wrapped baby into another room, where things have been prepared in advance. The baby is placed on a changing table or on a bed covered with a clean diaper and turned around. To prevent diaper rash, skin folds can be treated with a cotton swab dipped in sterile vegetable oil.

Before putting on the diaper, you need to wipe the folds dry and sprinkle them with talcum powder. After all this, the newborn is dressed in a vest, diapers and a hat. It is worth refraining from swaddling - the baby should move his arms and legs freely. As a rule, after water procedures, infants regain their appetite. Therefore, soon the mother will need to feed the baby and then put him to bed.

If organized correctly, swimming can provide a large number of bonuses. This is both a good sleep and strengthening the baby’s health. Bath procedures are also a pleasant way for mother and child to spend time together.

Grigorova Valeria, medical observer

5, total, today

( 196 votes, average: 4.70 out of 5)

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What is a water thermometer

This is a special thermal device necessary for measuring the temperature of water in a bathtub or other containers. The device is compact, has small dimensions and a streamlined shape, so it does not take up much space and should always be stored among household items. The water temperature meter is convenient for everyday use, and depending on its purpose, it provides the following conditional classification:

aquarium thermometers (glass, electronic);
children's (to measure the temperature of the baby bath water);
electronic and digital (for household, everyday needs);
mercury-free (a safe device that is used in pediatrics and beyond).

Types of water thermometers

In some baths, special temperature sensors (light or sound) are installed, but in domestic conditions this function is performed by a thermometer for hot water. Several well-known brands are engaged in serial production of such relevant products; the differences lie in the design, principle of operation, purpose and pricing policy of the rating positions. It's time to study each of the classifications and its prominent representatives.

Children's

The temperature of the water in an external baby bath should be no more than 37 degrees, otherwise bathing a newborn or infant can be harmful. Therefore, many young mothers choose not mercury, but more accurate digital models, which they actively use in everyday life. The choice is purely individual. Below are several rating items that can be ordered from the catalog and purchased in the online store at an affordable price:

name: BabyOno Fish;
price: 190 rubles;
characteristics: mercury-free model for water, temperature range varies from +10 to +45 degrees;
pros: bright color, original design, ease of use, affordable price, free sale, delivery by mail;
cons: none.

This was a budget option; many people trust more expensive products, citing their high quality. The second no less reliable and time-tested water meter:

name: Maman RT-17;
price: 436 rubles;
characteristics: electronic thermometer, for water, there is a sound signal;
pros: child-friendly design, easy to use, compact size, protection from water ingress;
cons: high cost.

If you are interested in cheaper products, here is one domestic item that is in high demand among modern mothers. Below is a brief description of it:

name: Bebe confort 32000236/32000235/ 32000212;
price: 370 rubles;
characteristics: protected from water, temperature range from +10 to +45 degrees, mercury-free model;
pros: stylish design, high accuracy of results;
cons: cost.

Mercury-free

In recent years, such positions have become especially relevant, since they are considered the most reliable and safe for a child. Before making a choice, you need to study the rating of favorites and their features:

name: Thermal device “Fish”;
price: 75 rubles;
characteristics: mercury-free, for water, protected;
pros: original design, accurate measurements, ease of use;
cons: none.

If buyers are more interested in imported products, there is a worthy alternative. The second name is well known to modern pediatrics and is the optimal price-quality ratio:

name: Happy Baby 18003;
price: 185 rubles;
characteristics: mercury-free, used for water, temperature range varies from +10 to +50 degrees;
pros: no mercury, original design, affordable price, reusable;
cons: small markings.

Models without mercury are more practical and safe for children's health. The third version of the popular thermometer, common among the masses, is this:

name: Bebe-Jou for bath;
price: 735 rubles;
characteristics: for water, has special protection, small scale, plastic body, mercury-free model;
pros: convenient and stylish for everyday use, produces accurate results, works without failures;
cons: not everyone is suitable for the inflated cost.

With dipstick

When choosing a thermometer to measure water temperature, many people prefer models with a probe. This is very convenient, since the thermal device is universal for kitchen and household purposes. The design is submersible, equipped with an indication. A thermometer for liquids and alcohol tinctures should be in every kitchen; below are the most rated models:

name: TP101;
price: 250 rubles;
characteristics: electronic model of submersible type for water and oily liquids, presence of a probe, scope of application - domestic needs, cooking;
pros: cheap, easy to use, necessary for everyday use;
cons: completely absent.

Thermometers with a probe can be purchased at the pharmacy; be sure to check for integrity. The second, no less relevant offer from well-known manufacturers:

name: ST-9231;
price: 1500 rubles;
characteristics: stainless steel thermometer with a plastic handle, built-in LCD display;
pluses: convenient model for kitchen needs and cooking, availability of a cover;
disadvantages: high cost, in case of malfunction it produces a high error rate.

This device is distinguished by its versatility, but some buyers are not satisfied with the price. A budget thermometer for measuring water temperature with a probe is described below:

name: WT-1;
price: 450 rubles;
characteristics: metal probe, plastic handle, liquid crystal display;
pros: convenient model, used for household needs, affordable prices;
cons: none.

Electronic

Such devices are considered “favorites”; they have a large screen and large numbers. They are distinguished by high measurement accuracy, ease of everyday use, and a wide range of models and prices. When buying a thermometer for hot water, you need to pay attention to the following electronic items:

name: Philips AVENT SCH550;
cost: 900 rubles;
characteristics: electronic thermometer, temperature range from +10 to +45 degrees;
pros: stylish flower-shaped design, accurate results;
cons: high cost.

The second offer is not much different in price, but attracts with its original design. Here is the model from well-known manufacturers we are talking about:

name: Electronic thermometer Beurer JBL 08;
cost: 700 rubles;
characteristics: made in the form of a toy, temperature range varies from +20 to +60 degrees;
pros: original design, clean plastic with hypoallergenic properties, accurate results;
Cons: Expensive for some.

You can find another children's water thermometer, which has an optimal price-quality ratio. Here's a short description:

name: Miniland Thermo Bath;
cost: 1460 rubles;
characteristics: made of hypoallergenic plastic, has a sound signal, temperature range from +10 to +50 degrees;
pros: made in the shape of a children's toy, looks original, can be bought on sale with a good discount and fast delivery;
Cons: significant cost of the product.

For water and air

A water thermometer can be actively used to measure the ambient temperature. There are many options, the most popular ones are presented below and are available for free sale:

name: Ramili Baby ET1003;
cost: 1400 rubles;
characteristics: for air, children's alarm clock design, electronic model with liquid crystal display;
pros: high accuracy, harmonious addition to a children's room;
cons: high price.

The second proposal is budget and is not as expensive as the thermometer described above. Here is a short description with advantages and disadvantages:

title: Snubnosiki “Steamboat”;
cost: 110 rubles without discount;
characteristics: mercury-free, range of action varies from +10 to +50 degrees;
pros: simple and convenient for everyday use, cheap;
cons: none.

Another thermometer for air and liquid is described below. The proposed model is ideal for home use every day:

name: Roxy kids Giraffe;
price: 140 rubles;
characteristics: thermometer without mercury, measured temperature varies from +15 to +45 °C;
pros: affordable, easy to use, stylish design, high-quality material;
cons: none.

Aquarium

If the house has an aquarium with fish, then there is also a thermometer for measuring the water temperature. This is an essential component for caring for domestic fauna, and high precision is required in this matter. Here are some good deals that can be found on sale:

name: Sera Precision (high frequency);
price: 235 rubles;
characteristics: alcohol-based, made of materials - rubber, plastic and glass, equipped with a suction cup for attaching to the aquarium;
advantages: high measurement accuracy, simplicity of design;
cons: none.

The second option for an aquarium, no less convenient and practical, has significant advantages. Its characteristics are presented below:

The third proposal, relevant for maintaining an aquarium, costs more, but is distinguished by high quality material and versatility. A brief description is provided below:

name: Tetratec TH Digital Thermometer;
price: 410 rubles;
characteristics: digital model, LCD screen, wire;
pros: opportunity to buy on sale, availability in Moscow and St. Petersburg;
cons: none.

How to choose a water thermometer

Before you buy a water thermometer for the bathroom or for culinary purposes, you need to carefully study the basic selection criteria. Otherwise, the purchase decision may turn out to be wrong, and the money will be wasted. Here are the main parameters for evaluating all commercially available thermometers:

Manufacturer and price. The two parameters are interrelated, and it is not recommended to skimp on your purchase. Rated manufacturers provide a quality guarantee, and the purchase will last for more than one year.
Model selection. For a child, it is better to choose mercury-free thermometers, for culinary purposes - with a probe, for a children's room - from hypoallergenic materials.
Functions. In this matter, it is advisable to give preference to universal positions that are suitable not only for measuring water temperature, but also air temperature.

Reviews

Arina, 31 years old A thermometer is an indispensable thing if you have a baby at home. I accidentally broke one, as if I had no hands until I bought a new one at the pharmacy. In this matter, it is better not to save money, but to buy electronic options. Very convenient, accurately, quickly and accurately shows the temperature. I recommend everyone to buy it, because I myself suffered greatly without it. Lada, 24 years old I am not at all delighted with mercury-free temperature meters, since they give a high error. I have experienced such inaccuracies myself. It’s better to buy an electronic one right away and not suffer. It costs an order of magnitude more, but it works properly, without failures. When an infant is growing at home, this is very important. I use the device before bathing him and am very pleased. Margot, 35 years old I don’t understand why such home meters are needed when you can check the temperature in a baby’s bath using the old-fashioned method – with your elbow. It works properly, without failures and unnecessary costs. There are two thermometers at home, but they are lying around unnecessarily, although during pregnancy, on the recommendation of a gynecologist, as an exemplary mother, I bought them at the pharmacy. Inga, 26 years old I have one device for measuring both water and room temperature. Convenient and without extra financial costs. I don’t recommend spending too much on such a purchase; anyway, you’ll only need to use it from time to time. The doctors insisted on purchasing a separate children's thermometer, but even without it I manage not to scald my own child with boiling water. Found an error in the text? Select it, press Ctrl + Enter and we will fix everything! Did you like the article? Tell me what you didn't like? The article does not answer my question Other Send Print Advertise on the site

Important properties of baby gels

Hypoallergenic - the absence of harmful dyes and fragrances that can cause an allergic reaction.
Safety. After all, any child can try the foam “to the teeth.”

Of course, if it was not a drop of gel, but a whole sip or two, you need to call an ambulance.

Daria, Moscow, 25 years old: “Johnsons Baby bathing foam suited us, or rather my six-month-old happiness, perfectly. You can purchase a large pink bottle of 500 ml. The price is very reasonable and will last a long time - about 4 months. But, depending on how much you pour it into the bath. For excitable children there is also one with lavender.”

Children's soap "Eared Nannies", Hipp is also popular among young mothers. The form of its use is also convenient - liquid.

This soap should not contain fragrances. An essential component is glycerin to soften delicate skin. Always a big plus for soap is the presence of substances of plant origin and a special dispenser for convenient use.

You can also bathe children in herbal mixtures with thyme, chamomile, and lemon balm. They have a good anti-inflammatory and calming effect. They will provide all possible assistance with diaper rash and hyperexcitability of the baby.

Natalya, 28 years old: “I bought the “Eared Nanny” hair wash, I thought it would be suitable as a bubble bath, but it wasn’t. Foams mediocre. Great for babies, softens the skin well. No allergic reactions were detected. There is, however, a grape scent, so I wouldn’t recommend it for newborns.”

Is it worth starting to harden your baby when bathing?

Hardening is training the body's thermoregulation system. Activities to harden the baby should be short-term and as natural as possible. Excessive zeal with hardening can lead to the opposite effect - depletion of the body's protective reserves.

Modern mothers argue about hardening the baby with the help of water procedures. Hardening, according to famous pediatricians, is useful, but if the baby is very small, then you should not experiment with pouring cold water.

Pouring cold water and immunity

Pouring cold water is a stressful and unnatural event for a child. A grown-up baby will actively resist the adult’s desire to douse him with water of an unpleasant temperature.

On a note! According to the observations of experienced parents, in families that practice forced hardening, children do not get sick much less often.

Children should enjoy and enjoy bathing every night. Instead, they begin to be afraid of swimming, tense up, and expect tricks from adults when taking water procedures. In order not to harm the psychological balance and health of the baby, it is worth starting hardening with natural methods, but not with cold water.

Self-hardening

Hardening should become a continuation of the child’s lifestyle, so-called self-hardening:

Walking barefoot;
Walking naked in summer or in ventilated, not overheated areas;
No excessive wrapping;
Washing, wiping and spraying with water of contrasting temperature;
Summer swimming.

Self-hardening procedures enter the life of a little person on his own initiative, through play and pampering. The task of parents is to support the little person’s experiments and keep them safe.

If in the warm season a baby plays with water, he likes to douse himself and play around - this can be a natural start to hardening procedures. In this case, independent manipulation of water by a growing child will have a beneficial effect on strengthening the immune system. Whereas pouring cold water over an unprepared baby will not bring any benefit, but will only harm the child’s physical and psychological immunity.

Remember! Children copy adults and sooner or later they will definitely join the exercises that dad does in the morning, a healthy lifestyle and hardening.

If dousing with cold water after a run or intense exercise is practiced by parents in the family, then for a child from the age of three such procedures will also become a natural process.

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