WATCH: 9 dangerous things parents do when bathing their baby

Yes, bathtime can be a scary thing for a brand-new parent but this list of what NOT to do will help ease the anxiety. 

Parenthood is a many splendid thing but being responsible for an entire person is also terrifying, especially one as tiny and delicate as a baby. 

For new parents, making a mistake while caring for their newborn is a big concern, and bathtime can be high on the list of scary tasks to master. 

But it doesn't have to bring up anxieties and can be a really special time for parent and child. When you know exactly what not to do and the potential dangers, you can begin to focus on making bathtime fun and even educational. 

Watch the video above for our tips on 9 things to watch out for when bathing your little one. 

1. Leaving baby unattended

Accidents happen in the blink of an eye, and one thing to never, ever do is leave your baby alone, even for a second. Preparing everything you need before stepping into the bathroom, and take baby with you if you've forgotten something important. 

2. Testing water temperature incorrectly

Scalding hot water can cause detrimental damage. Check the water by using either a thermometer,  your wrists, or by dipping an elbow and swirling the water around to ensure an even, mild temperature. 

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What are your biggest concerns about taking care of your baby? Is there anything about baby care you wish you knew about beforehand? Tell us by emailing to chatback@parent24.com and we could publish your letter

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• Also see: 5 tips for how to bath baby 

3. Using too much water 

For water-saving purposes and for safety, keep the water level to just over your baby's knees. This will be enough to wash your baby's body and hair without the potential of covering their face. 

4. Starting with hot water

If you can’t run hot and cold together, always start with cold water, adding hot water after. Finish off with another round of cold water to cool the tap.

Never add more hot water during a bath, to avoid accidents.

5. Holding baby incorrectly

Cradle baby with one hand, making sure you support their head and neck. Lower baby feet first into the bath and use your free hand for washing and rinsing. 

• Also see: You might just be bathing your baby too often

6. Depending on bath seats to support your baby

While useful for keeping a slippery baby in place, bath seats may not be the most secure for support. Make sure you maintain a good hold even when using bath seats. 

7. Not using a non-slip mat

When baby gets big enough for a larger baby bath, be sure to use a non-slip mat to avoid accidental slips. 

• Also see: A step by step guide to bathing your newborn baby 

8. Forgetting to remove dangerous objects

Baby proofing isn't just for your home, make sure you move dangerous objects like razor blades, nail scissors, nail files, shampoos and any other cleaning product out of the way before getting a bath started. 

9. Not teaching them to remain seated

Your baby won't always be small. Teach them to remain seated at all times while bathing so you won't have to introduce this later on when they start crawling. 

What are your biggest concerns about taking care of your baby? Is there anything about baby care you wish you knew about beforehand? Tell us by emailing to chatback@parent24.com and we could publish your letter

Read more: 

• It’s more than good, clean fun!
  
• Is bath time a battle?
  
• How South Africans bath their babies 

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