5 ways to make bath time easier for children during cold weather
By Cynthia Lodite, September 21, 2026For many children, bath time can become a struggle when the weather turns cold. A child who normally enjoys playing in the water may suddenly complain about the cold and try to avoid taking a bath.
Cold mornings and chilly evenings can make the experience uncomfortable, but parents can make bath time easier with a few simple changes.
1. Choose a warmer time of day
Instead of bathing children very early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures may be lower, parents can choose a warmer part of the day.
For families with flexible schedules, bathing children in the late morning or afternoon can make the experience more comfortable.
2. Prepare everything before the bath
Having everything ready before the child gets into the bathroom can help reduce the time they spend exposed to the cold.
Keep the towel, clothes, underwear and other items nearby so the child can be dried and dressed soon after the bath.
This is especially helpful with younger children who may take longer to get dressed on their own.
3. Use comfortably warm water
Children may be more willing to take a bath when the water feels comfortable rather than very cold.
Parents should check the water temperature before bathing a child. It should be warm and comfortable, not excessively hot, as very hot water can irritate or dry out the skin.
For babies and young children, extra care should be taken when checking the temperature.
4. Keep the bathroom as comfortable as possible
A cold bathroom can make bath time unpleasant. Where possible, close windows or doors that allow cold air to come directly into the bathroom.
Parents should also avoid unnecessary delays during bathing. The goal is to keep the child comfortable while still giving them enough time to wash properly.
5. Make bath time less of a battle
Children may resist bathing simply because they associate it with feeling cold.
Parents can make the routine more enjoyable by talking to the child, singing a song or allowing them to choose between two outfits to wear afterwards.
For older children, allowing them to take some responsibility, such as preparing their towel or choosing their clothes, can also make the routine easier.
Cold weather does not have to turn bath time into a daily argument. With the right timing, preparation and a comfortable environment, parents can make the routine easier for children while keeping them clean and comfortable.