Bath time is one of the key moments in your baby's routine, especially if we do it just before bedtime, because it helps reduce stimuli, relaxes them, regulates their body temperature and 'warns' them that the end of the day is approaching.
But when we go on vacation and have to change the routine and space they are used to, bath time can be a little more challenging. The key to keeping everything under control is finding the balance between making the routine more flexible and maintaining some constants.
How to make the perfect baby bath on vacation?
Choose the right place
Depending on your vacation destination and the amount of luggage you have available, you may want to consider bringing your own tub, if it's a portable one . This will make things much easier, especially if your baby isn't sitting up on his own yet.
Use a safe, sturdy tub. Baby tubs can be 'bucket-style' for upright sitting, tilted for support, inflatable, collapsible, and 'spa-style.' Make sure all parts are working properly and are securely fastened. ( American Academy of Pediatrics, 2015 ).
If you prefer to travel light, then decide where it is most comfortable to bathe your baby at the place where you will be staying. If the bathroom has a tub, you can simply fill it up a little and get in with him or her (if he or she is not yet able to sit on his or her own) or bathe him or her alone, always with you by his or her side to support him or her.
If the bathroom only has a shower, then one option is to sit in the shower with your baby and use the phone, or if your baby is already sitting up on his own, you can put down a non-slip mat or towel and help him without having to get into the water.
Another alternative is to use the sink if your baby's size allows it, but make sure it is not in a place where there is a lot of air current, because a wet baby gets cold very easily. In fact, the temperature of the room should be between 20° and 25° C.
Pay close attention to any uneven surfaces or edges that pose a risk, and make sure the tub is clean. Mold inside a tub can cause respiratory problems and skin rashes ( American Academy of Pediatrics, 2015 ).
*American Academy of Pediatrics, Parent Plus: How to keep your baby safe during bath time, Madeline Sturgeon, Editorial Intern, 2015.
What accessories to wear and what not to wear
Bath time is a favorite time for many babies, so make sure you have some essential items on hand that make bath time more enjoyable but won't take up too much space in your luggage.
For example, a bath visor , a thermometer (especially for the little ones if you still have trouble defining the ideal water temperature by touch), and a couple of their favorite water toys , but the rinse jug, watering can, or other items are unnecessary.
Remember that the ideal water temperature for bathing your baby is between 35° and 37° C. It should feel warm and you should always check it with your hand or elbow.
Keep the same hygiene products
Our babies' skin is very delicate, so it is important to always use hygiene products suitable for their skin type. To avoid venturing into a new brand on holiday and running the risk of an unexpected reaction, it is best to bring the products you use at home.
If you don't want to add too much weight, transfer a smaller amount into a smaller reusable container.
Remember: if you travel by plane, the permitted amount of liquids, creams, gels and shampoo in the cabin cannot exceed 100 ml.
Bring your towel, preferably made of muslin.
It is also a good idea to travel with your own towel , since you don't know what the towels at the accommodation you are staying at will be like, or what type of detergent they use to wash them.
Our favourite textile? Muslin! Its softness is unbeatable, perfect for wrapping your baby after a bath and keeping their skin soft. Plus, it takes up less space than a traditional towel, so it's ideal for travelling.
Do you already know our muslin bath towels and bath capes ?
Make routines more flexible
It's okay if your baby doesn't follow the same routine as at home during the holidays. A trip is an opportunity to enjoy and relax, so don't stress yourself out trying to replicate schedules and methods exactly. Make those routines more flexible, but always respect your baby's needs.
Our babies' sleep is one of the aspects that is most affected during vacations, because inevitably the change of environment takes them out of their safe zone. In this sense , the bathroom can be a GREAT ally to help them get a quality rest , and even to help them adjust to a new schedule if the destination involves a time change.
