Infant Water Safety: Tips for New Parents

Aubrey Hutson
Jun 3
3 min read

Every new parent keeps safety top of mind. But while you’re busy installing car seats and babyproofing every corner of your home, you can’t forget about water. Drowning is the leading cause of death in infants aged one to four.

And unfortunately, it happens quickly, silently, and in as little as one inch of water.

Whether it’s bath time, a backyard kiddie pool, or just a few inches of water in a bucket, babies need constant supervision whenever water is present. Here are some infant water safety tips that will help keep their little ones safe this summer.

How to Make Bath Time Safe

Many new parents regard bath time as a cherished ritual. (And a vital component of a sleep-inducing nighttime routine.) But unfortunately, it’s also where the majority of infant drownings occur.

Here are some infant water safety tips to make sure that never happens to you:

Never Leave Your Baby Unattended. This is the golden rule. If the doorbell rings, your phone buzzes, or you forget something, scoop your baby up, wrap them in a towel, and take them with you.
Prepare Everything in Advance. Before you even fill the tub, gather all your supplies – shampoo, soap, towels, a clean diaper, and fresh clothes. If everything is within arm's reach, you won't be tempted to step away.
Maintain a Safe Water Level. For newborns and young infants, only fill the tub with three to five inches of warm water. Tiny bodies can submerge quickly.
Check the Water Temperature. Remember to test the water temperature with your elbow or a bath thermometer before dunking your little one. Bath water should be warm — not hot — at around 100°F.
Use a Baby Bath Support Wisely. While a bath ring or seat can be helpful for positioning, they’re not a substitute for direct supervision. Unfortunately, bath supports offer a false sense of security – as they tip over easily.
Drain the Tub Immediately. Once bath time is over, pull the plug. Curious toddlers or even crawling infants might be prone to investigate.

Beyond the Tub: Other Infant Water Hazards

Of course, water safety extends far beyond the bathroom. Be wary of these potential drowning risks around your home and out-and-about.

Toilets. Toilets are not toys! Make sure to keep the lids down and/or use a toilet lock – especially if your baby is crawling and curious. (Remember, babies can drown in just a few inches of water.)
Buckets and Pails. Never leave water-filled buckets or pails unattended. Infants are top-heavy and can accidentally fall into them headfirst.
Pet Water Bowls. While less common, a very young infant could potentially fall into your pup’s water bowl. Be mindful.
Kiddie Pools and Inflatable Pools. Treat kiddie pools the same as you would a full-sized pool. Always supervise your infant directly, drain it immediately after use, and store it when not in use.
Pools, Ponds, and Lakes. And if you have a full-sized pool, ensure it's securely fenced with self-latching gates that open outward. Never rely solely on alarms! Whenever you’re near larger bodies of water, keep your infant within arm's reach and be hyper-aware of your surroundings. Always use a properly-fitting, infant life vest on a boat. And of course, remember that life vests aren’t a substitute for direct supervision.