A question that often comes up: can you bathe your baby in the sink? It’s something many parents have wondered, including us when our children were little! So let’s settle this debate once and for all, and give you the lowdown on sink baths for babies—whether you should do it, what you need to think about, and why it might be a good idea after all!
Why Bathe Your Baby in the Sink?
There are many reasons why new parents might consider bathing their baby in the sink. Some families may only have a shower in their bathroom, or they might not have access to a baby bath when they bring their new baby home. Other families might just be continuing a tradition that has lasted generations!
Before the surge in nursery products (and long before baby essentials filled our shopping lists!), many families bathed their baby in the sink because there simply wasn’t an alternative. These days, baby bath tubs are everywhere, but many parents still find sink baths far more convenient. If it works for you, why not?
Bathing Your Baby in the Sink vs. a Baby Bath
If you’re undecided about whether to fill the sink or splash out on a baby bath, it might help to weigh the pros and cons of each option.
Use Less Water
Sink baths tend to use less water because you’re working with a smaller space. This is a huge plus for many, not only to save on water bills but also for environmental reasons.
Easier on Your Back
Standing at the sink can be much kinder to your back than bending over a baby bath on the floor. This can be especially helpful for new moms recovering from a c-section.
Quick and Easy
It’s much faster and less hassle to fill the sink and bathe your baby there than to prepare a baby bath tub. Plus, you can have all your supplies ready on the draining board for easy access.
Location is Key
Many kitchen sinks are located by a window, which might not be ideal in cooler weather. The advantage of a baby bath is that you can move it around the house to find a warmer spot.
Not All Sinks Are the Same
Most baby bath tubs come in a standard size designed for small babies. Your sink might be deeper, shallower, smaller, or bigger, so it’s important to check if your sink is suitable for a bath before ruling out a baby tub.
Consider Your Cleaning Products
We’ll discuss cleaning your sink later, but for now, it’s important to note that you will need to thoroughly clean your sink before and after your baby’s bath. So, consider what products you’ll be using.