Child safety
Fill a baby's bath with cold water first
Run cold water first, then add hot water; mix thoroughly and test with an elbow or thermometer. About 37–38°C is suitable for a baby's bath.
Why it matters
Hot water first or poorly mixed water can leave hot spots that scald a baby.
Wrong action
Unsafe: Running hot water first and putting the baby in before mixing and testing.
Correct action
Run cold water first, then add hot water; mix thoroughly and test with an elbow or thermometer. About 37–38°C is suitable for a baby's bath.
What to do
- Check the area, equipment, and household arrangement before starting.
- Run cold water first, then add hot water; mix thoroughly and test with an elbow or thermometer. About 37–38°C is suitable for a baby's bath.
- Stop and tell the employer if the situation is unsafe or unclear.
If something happens
For serious injury, unconsciousness, breathing difficulty, or immediate danger, call 999 and keep yourself safe first.
Sources and review
- Department of Health Family Health Service — Baby bath time
Source checked: 2026-08-22
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.
Related safety lessons
High-priority reminderChild safety
Do not carry a child while cooking
Before using a flame, hot oil, or hot pan, ask another adult to supervise the child or place the child safely away from the cooking area.
View safety lesson →
High-priority reminderBurn and scald prevention
Keep appliance cords away from table edges
Place kettles and heated appliances securely at the back of the counter and keep their cords where children cannot pull them.
View safety lesson →
High-priority reminderGas safety
Use an approved room-sealed heater for a new bathroom installation
For a new bathroom or shower installation, use an approved GU-marked room-sealed (balanced-flue) gas water heater installed by a registered gas installer; arrange a check every 18 months.
View safety lesson →