When Can Babies Have a Bubble Bath?

Bubble baths are often associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs), so it’s recommended to avoid them until your child is at least 3 years old. Certain bubble bath formulas, along with strong soaps containing deodorants or strong scents, can irritate your baby’s urethra if not properly rinsed off. This irritation can make urination painful, causing the child to hold their urine, which can lead to UTIs, says Shelly J. King, a pediatric urology nurse practitioner at James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis.

The American Foundation for Urologic Disease notes that girls are more prone to UTIs. For boys, UTIs mostly occur in uncircumcised infants under six months old. To help prevent UTIs in both girls and boys:

• Avoid letting your child soak in soapy water or bubble bath.
• If your child is toilet trained, encourage her to urinate after bathing to flush out any bacteria.
• If your child is prone to UTIs or experiences painful urination after a bubble bath, consider avoiding bubble baths until puberty or until she can rinse her bottom properly.

It can be challenging to identify if your child has a UTI, especially if she’s too young to communicate symptoms. Look out for signs like fever, frequent diaper changes, strong-smelling urine, or urine tinged with blood. If your child can speak, she may mention pain while urinating. Some children also become irritable, vomit, experience diarrhea, or lose their appetite. Untreated UTIs can cause kidney damage, so it’s crucial to see a doctor if you suspect a UTI. Learn more about urinary tract infections in babies and toddlers.