Bath time is a fun time for babies, but bathrooms can also be dangerous places. Water, electricity, hard edges, medications and electronic equipment are just a few of the items that pose a risk to babies and toddlers. For a baby proof bathroom, check out these tips.
Water Safety
Standing water and hot water are major hazards in a bathroom. Children can drown in water as shallow as one inch deep, according to the Southern 7 Health Department. Babies, toddlers and children should never be alone around standing water.
- Fit a hook and eye latch high up on the bathroom door, out of reach of children, and keep the door locked whenever the bathroom isn’t being used
- Fit toilet lid locks.
- Never leave a baby or young child alone in the tub, or supervised by another child, not even for a second. Baby seats aren’t safety devices.
To reduce the risk of scalds, the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) advises parents to set their hot water heater thermostat to below 120° F. The Center also recommends covering faucets with rubber guards to help prevent burns.
Dangerous Items
Many items that are usually stored in bathrooms are hazardous to children, including some you may not realize are dangerous. The Babycenter website lists nail clippers, razors, tweezers and other sharp objects, and all medications and cosmetics, as items to always store in a locked cabinet out of the reach of children. Even health supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal remedies are dangerous and must be locked away.
Slip Prevention
Bath time means water, and water is slippery. It doesn’t take much for a nasty fall onto a hard edge, and tears, bruises, and worse. Remember to dry your toddler’s feet as soon as you take her out of the tub, and don’t allow running in the bathroom. UMMC recommendations also include:
- a non-slip mat in your tub.
- bath toys to encourage your child to stay seated at bath time.
Electricity Safety
Electrocution is a real danger in bathrooms, but there’s plenty you can do to make your bathroom safe. The Babycenter explains that Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) should be fitted to all outlets. GFCI prevent shocks when there’s a fault. Older homes may not have them, so check with an electrician if you’re unsure about the outlets in your bathroom. Other electricity safety advice includes:
- Never leave an electrical device plugged in near your tub or basin.
- Store curling tongs, hairdryers and other heat-creating electronic devices out of reach of children.
When you have a baby proof bathroom, you can relax and enjoy bathing your baby or toddler. If you’re in doubt about how to make your bathroom safe, talk to a professional.
For answers to your questions, contact the Pink Plumber today.
