I understand that nightly baths for kids aren’t mandatory. It’s not some unwritten parenting rule! Many families I know stick to a bathing schedule of three times a week or alternate nights, and that works for them. But for us, it’s the “every single night, no matter what” routine—even during vacations. Yes, every single night. Why, you ask? Because I’m a bit particular and also because…
1. Baths Help Them Unwind.
There’s something magical about a warm bath infused with lavender that signals bedtime for my kids. After a long day of chaos and maybe a bit of mischief, a soak in the tub helps them relax and transition smoothly into sleep mode.
2. Bathtubs Keep Them in One Place.
With three little ones, bath time means they’re all contained in one spot. I don’t have to chase them around the house! The tub is like their little pool, and I’m the goalie, ready to catch any escape attempts.
3. It’s Part of Our Daily Ritual.
From the moment their umbilical cords healed, bath time has been a non-negotiable part of our evening routine—like taxes after Christmas, except way more fun! Dinner is followed by a bath, and then it’s off to bed.
4. They Get to Enjoy Bath-Only Toys.
The tub is filled with special toys that are only for bath time. These toys never dry off quickly enough to leave the tub, so it feels like a new adventure every night. Rotating them is like throwing a mini Christmas party!
5. They’re Natural Water Lovers.
My kids are true water enthusiasts. They spent nine months floating around, and getting them into the bath is usually a breeze. On the rare occasion they resist, a few fun accessories like goggles or a snorkel can turn things around—who doesn’t want to snorkel in the tub?
6. I Can’t Stand Dirty Feet in the Sheets.
I genuinely can’t. There’s something about it that drives me nuts. If we were stranded on a deserted island, I’d probably find a way to wash their feet in the ocean and make them sparkle before bed—call it my quirk!
7. It’s an Easy Way to Clean the Floor.
If your toddlers are anything like mine, bath time often leads to a mini tsunami on the floor. But that’s okay! A quick towel mop-up, and the floor is clean again.
8. Bath Time is Just Plain Fun.
What kid doesn’t enjoy splashing around in bubbles, mixing their dirt with soapy water? It’s a joyful experience, and why would I want to take that away from them? It’s adorable now, but in a few years, it might just be awkward!
9. I Get Some Peace and Quiet.
While they splash and play, I can sneak in a few minutes of relaxation. Sometimes, I let them soak for 35 to 45 minutes. That’s a solid chunk of time for me to recharge—like a mini vacation!
10. It Keeps the Sheet Washing to a Minimum.
Here comes the clean obsession again! If my kids are clean when they hop into bed, their sheets stay cleaner longer. Dirty kids equal a constant need for fresh sheets, and frankly, I’m not about that life.
So, that’s our nightly routine. I’ll keep bathing my kids until the cows come home—and then probably give them another bath afterward because, well, kids and cows don’t mix well, and I prefer to keep things tidy.
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Summary:
Bathing my kids every night, despite not being a must, is a cherished routine for our family. It helps them relax, keeps them contained, and provides a fun and engaging experience. Plus, it offers me a much-needed break and ensures clean sheets for longer.