Soaps, shampoos, and bubble baths can dry your baby's skin and may cause rashes, so use products formulated for delicate, developing skin. 
Bath time can be a fun, special time to share with your baby. It's also a time for extreme caution. Keep these bathing tips in mind to keep your little one safe while he or she gets squeaky-clean.
- The first and most important rule is this: Never, ever leave your baby unsupervised, even for a minute. Children can drown in less than an inch of water. Gather all of the supplies (soap, towel, etc.) you'll need ahead of time. If the doorbell or the phone rings, and you feel you must answer it, scoop your baby up in a towel and take him or her with you.
- Make sure the bathroom is comfortably warm (around 75 degrees F). Babies can get chilled quickly.
- Don't put your baby into a tub when the water is still running (the water temperature could change or the water could get too deep).
- Make the family tub safe: Bathtubs are incredibly slippery, so outfit yours with a rubber bath mat for more secure seating. A cushioned spout cover can protect your baby's head from painful bumps. Also, be sure that any sliding glass shower doors are made from safety glass.
- Make the bath water comfortably warm (90 to 100 degrees F). Babies and toddlers generally prefer a much cooler tub than you probably do. To prevent burns, set your water heater to no hotter than 120 degrees.
- Fill the tub with 2 to 3 inches of water for babies up to 6 months old, and never more than waist-high (in sitting position) for older children.
- For kids who can sit up, a bath ring suction-cupped to the bottom of the tub may provide you with an extra "hand." But don't let it give you a false sense of security — it's no substitute for keeping your eye on your baby at all times.
- Teach your baby to sit (not stand) in the tub.
- Soaps, shampoos, and bubble baths can dry your baby's skin and may cause rashes, so use products formulated for delicate, developing skin.
- Don't allow your child to touch the faucet handles. Even if your baby can't move them now, he or she will be strong enough to do so eventually — and that could lead to serious injury.
- Keep electric appliances (like hair dryers and curling irons) away from the tub.
