Now we’re not trying to scare you, but did you know that in the United States from 1990 to 2007, the annual average of bathtub and shower related injuries to children aged 18 and younger was 43,600? Yikes! And the greatest number of those injuries occurred in children under the age of two, with 97.1% of them happening at home.

Since January is National Bath Safety Month, we thought this would be a good time to remind all our parent readers about some easy, smart bathroom safety precautions at home.

1. Make your bathroom a safe zone:

There are many things you can do to be sure your bathroom is safe for your little ones. First, if you want a lock on the door consider a hook-and-eye lock high up so kids cannot reach it and accidentally lock themselves inside. Second, make sure all items are out of harm’s way such as razors, scissors, nail clippers, curling irons, other electronics, etc. The same goes for cleaning products, detergents, soaps, medications/vitamins, mouthwash, etc.

2. Keep things slip-free:

Bathrooms can get slippery with all that water flowing from the sink, tub, shower, etc. Find a faucet cover for your bathtub faucet to avoid a potential injury. Also, install non-slip mats in the tub and surrounding floors to keep the surfaces slip-free. You can find mats in fun colors and shapes that kids will like too.

3. Keep the temperature under control:

Burns from scalding water cause a significant number of bathroom injuries each year and babies/toddlers are at particular risk because their skin is 15 times thinner than an adult’s skin. To avoid this injury, be sure test the water first and throughout the process of the tub filling up. Additionally, never put your child in the bathtub while the water is still running as the temperature could change quickly especially in older homes where plumbing/water heating systems can be a bit testy. Also, little hands can easily pull the faucet and make the water hotter without you even knowing.

4. Be mold free:

We all know that bath toys make bath time more fun, but when your kids are playing, be sure their toys aren’t a breeding ground for bacteria. Toy culprits include wooden toys or spongy ones that retain moisture. Either way – for all toys – make it a habit to rinse them out and air dry daily, and then once a week or so, wash/clean them. Some toys are even dishwasher safe. If the toy shows signs of mold, throw it away immediately.

5. Keep a watch out:

It’s so important to never leave your child alone in the bathtub. Keep an eye on them at all times. Every year many young children drown in their own bathtubs, even in low water levels. If your phone rings, let it go to voicemail. Enjoy this time with your baby and give her your full and undivided attention!

6. Sit, don’t stand:

Encourage  your children to sit while being bathed and avoid jumping and other rough play that could cause injuries, slipping, etc. Splashing around while sitting down (especially with the right toys) can be just as fun!

7. Use sensitive soaps:

While bathing your young children be sure you use a baby shampoo or something that is made for sensitive skin and that is fragrance (and chemical) free.

What do you do to keep your bathroom safe and sound? Share with us your family’s tips as well.

This post was originally posted on the now-defunct Mom’s Choice Matters blog on 1/9/2012.
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