When I saw my mother-in-law bathe my son in the kitchen sink, I was terrified. We use the same sink to wash dishes and make dinner! This prompted me to ask: Can you bathe a newborn in the sink?

Surprisingly, it is a common issue among new parents, and our own parents may have considered it when we were babies.

Bathing a baby in the sink has been a ritual for decades, even before the nursery business boomed with baby products.

Many households did not have infant baths at the time; thus, the sink served as a suitable alternative. Today, despite the availability of baby bathtubs, some parents choose sink bathing.

There are various reasons why new parents may consider sink bathing for their infants. Some houses only have a shower and no bathtub; thus, the sink is a reasonable choice.

Some parents may not have a baby bath ready when they bring their infant home. Furthermore, some may view sink baths as a continuation of a family custom.

Benefits of Sink Baths:

Because they are smaller, sinks use less water than baby bathtubs. This is an excellent way to save money on water costs while also being ecologically friendly.

Standing at the sink is generally gentler on your back than leaning over a bathtub on the floor. This can be very useful for new moms recovering after a c-section.
Quick and convenient: Filling the sink is faster and easier than setting up a baby bathtub. You may keep all of your baby’s bath materials organized on the draining board for convenient access.
Cons of sink baths:

Temperature and Location: In colder weather, placing kitchen sinks near windows can create drafts. On the other hand, you can relocate baby bathtubs anywhere in the house, giving you greater control over the bathing environment.

Size and Shape: Not every sink is appropriate for infant bathing. Baby bathtubs, designed to be safe and pleasant for little newborns, differ in size and depth from sinks.

Cleanliness: Before and after washing your kid, carefully clean the sink to ensure it is sanitary. This entails thinking about the cleaning products you use, as you don’t want to expose your kid to harsh chemicals.

While washing a baby in the sink is easy, it’s important to balance the benefits and drawbacks. Ensure that the sink is clean and safe, taking into account your baby’s environment and comfort.

If you meet these conditions, a sink bath can be an effective treatment. However, if the sink is unsuitable or you are uncomfortable with the concept, investing in a baby bathtub may be a better option.

So, while my immediate reaction to my mother-in-law’s behavior was surprise, understanding the background and logic behind sink baths allowed me to recognize that it’s a typical practice with both advantages and disadvantages. Finally, it is important to consider what is best for you and your child.