One mother on TikTok sparked a debate among parents by questioning how frequently they bathe their children. The viral video by Hallie Casey revealed her astonishment upon discovering that some parents bathe their kids daily, while she opts for a more relaxed approach, going a few days between baths.
Casey candidly shared her perspective, acknowledging that she does not adhere to the daily bath routine due to the challenges of managing two kids during bath time. With her one-year-old creating a splashy mess and her four-year-old indulging in imaginative play, the prospect of separate baths for each child seems daunting, potentially stretching the nightly routine to an exhausting duration.
Having experienced a shift in her bathing habits since the arrival of her second child, Casey now opts for a bathing schedule of every two to three days, occasionally extending it to five days during periods of inactivity or extreme weather conditions. Despite facing criticism in the comments section of her video, Casey remains firm in her belief that her children are indeed clean, emphasizing the practicality and energy-saving aspect of her approach, especially amidst her pregnancy-induced fatigue.
The online discourse surrounding children’s bathing frequency showcased a spectrum of opinions, ranging from adamant advocates of daily baths for hygiene reasons to supporters of less frequent bathing, particularly during colder months. While some stressed the importance of daily baths for cleanliness, others highlighted the adaptability of bathing routines based on individual circumstances and seasonal variations.
In alignment with guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which recommend bathing babies under one year old three times a week or less, and toddlers 2–3 times a week, the debate underscored the nuanced considerations involved in maintaining children’s hygiene. Factors such as activity levels, skin type, and seasonal variations were noted as influential in determining an optimal bathing frequency for children.
As the discussion on children’s bathing practices continues to unfold, it reflects the diverse approaches and considerations that parents navigate in balancing hygiene, practicality, and individual preferences within their family routines.