Baby baths

Although you can just 'top n tail' your tiny baby or bath her in the family bath or sink, a special baby bath allows you to bath your baby anywhere in the house; allowing you to choose the warmest, most convenient room. Additionally, using a baby bath avoids the unecessary strain put on your back by supporting your baby in an adult sized bath. The smaller size acts to conserve water and heat and helps your baby to feel more comfortable and secure at bath time.

Though you can still purchase the traditional plastic baby bath, there are many additions you can buy to make bathtime easier. Some baby baths have a plughole, which can be a huge benefit as even a half full baby bath can be very heavy. Other baby baths can be fitted over an adult bath so you can bath your baby without stooping.

You can also buy baby baths shaped rather like a bucket, allowing complete control whilst in the bath. These enable your baby to sit in the foetal position while you clean them - a pose which babies find very relaxing. Other baby baths are novelty shaped, such as animals. Also available are blow up baby baths which then fold down into a tiny pouch for travelling.

You should look for a baby bath that is made of strong plastic, is fitted with a non-slip base and has a wide lip to minimise splashing. Some baby baths are designed to change colour if the temperature is too hot - however you should always test the water yourself before placing your baby in the bath.

Many companies now sell bath inserts (to bath your baby in the family bath) which can be used for very small babies to help your baby feel secure and to take pressure off your arm. Do not let this lull you into a false sense of security. Keep an arm in contact with your baby at all times.

When preparing a bath for your baby you should always prepare everything in advance, if you have forgotten something, take your baby out of the bath and take her with you. Never ever leave your baby unattended in water, not even for a second, as babies can drown in less than an inch of water.