Our grannies and moms often turned to their kitchen pantries to treat common baby skin concerns. Whether it was a gram flour scrub to remove dead skin or an oatmeal bath to soothe allergic reactions, they always had simple, natural remedies at hand.
Using gentle, home-based solutions is often a safer choice for infants, as it keeps them away from harsh chemicals and the risk of side effects. Babies commonly experience eczema, rashes, and other skin allergies, and applying chemical-based ointments isn’t always ideal. In such cases, an oatmeal bath for babies serves as a soothing, natural alternative. 1
In this blog, we’ll explore how to make an oatmeal bath for babies, its benefits, and the skin concerns it can help relieve.
What is an Oatmeal Bath?
An oatmeal bath is a warm bath infused with ground oats, also known as colloidal oatmeal. When added to water, oats release skin-soothing compounds like avenanthramides and beta-glucan that help reduce inflammation, dryness and itching. 2,3
Colloidal oatmeal forms a soft, milky liquid in water that coats the skin with a calming, protective layer. Colloidal oatmeal for babies is a time-tested and trusted remedy for soothing eczema, dry, irritated baby skin, heat and diaper rash. 4
What You Need for an Oatmeal Bath?
Wondering how to make an oatmeal bath for babies? Here is a simple procedure: 5,6
Ingredients:
- Plain, unsweetened oats
- Food processor or blender
- Baby bathtub
- Soft washcloth
Instructions:
- Grind the oats in the blender to get a fine powder. Take around a cup of flour for a small baby tub. You can increase/decrease the quantity depending on the size of the bathtub.
- Now fill the bathtub with lukewarm water. Ensure the water is not hot.
- Sprinkle the oat flour into the water and mix it with your hands.
- Place your baby in the water and let them soak for about 15 minutes in the oatmeal bath water.
- You can softly pour the oatmeal water on your baby using a cup or a washcloth.
- Once done, gently pat your baby dry. Do not rub their skin.
An oatmeal bath can be a perfect DIY baby bath choice for dry skin, baby eczema or rashes. Use it regularly to soothe your baby’s inflamed skin.
As an alternative to a bath, you can also make a paste of oatmeal and apply it directly on your baby’s skin to soothe irritation and rashes.
Oatmeal Bath Benefits
Researchers have found that people with eczema saw considerable improvement when they applied a topical cream with 1% colloidal oatmeal. They witnessed a reduction in flare-ups after 14 days of use. 7
Oatmeal can make a huge impact on people suffering from psoriasis or sensitive skin by preventing outbreaks and irritation. 8
The proven benefits of an oatmeal bath are mentioned below: 9
- An oatmeal bath not only comforts the skin, but also comes with many other benefits:
- Soothes itchy and inflamed skin
- Helps relieve symptoms of heat rash, eczema, and diaper rash
- Gentle and safe for daily use
- Acts as a natural skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and dryness
- Maintains a healthy pH balance
How to Make Oatmeal Bath for Baby
If your baby’s skin is healthy, there is no risk in giving them an oatmeal bath if done correctly. However, if your baby has a skin condition, it is always better to consult your doctor first before giving an oatmeal bath.
Keep in mind the following before dipping your baby in a tub filled with an oatmeal bath: 10
- Always use plain, unsweetened and non-flavoured oats to make an oatmeal bath for babies. Do not use flavoured ones or instant oats.
- Ensure that the water is not hot. It should be lukewarm.
- Use a non-slip bath mat in the tub, as oatmeal can make the tub surface very slippery.
- Moisturise your baby’s skin immediately after the bath for added hydration.
- Do not use soap during the oatmeal bath, as it can remove all the protective layer added by oatmeal.
- Do not rub the skin vigorously after a bath. Just pat dry gently.
Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction
Although an oatmeal bath is one of the best natural remedies for baby rashes, some babies may show sensitivity to oats as they may be allergic to the protein called avenin, found in oats. 11 Here are signs to watch out for:
- Hives or redness on the skin 12
- Trouble breathing (in rare cases) 13
- Increased skin irritation or itchiness 14
If any of the above symptoms appear, you must rinse your baby immediately with fresh water and consult your doctor.
When To Contact a Health Care Provider
Most babies respond well to an oatmeal bath. But you should reach out to your paediatrician immediately if: 15
- If your baby’s eczema or rash worsens
- Symptoms persist even after multiple oatmeal baths
- You suspect an allergic reaction to oatmeal
- There is oozing, bleeding or signs of an infection
Some skin concerns may not heal with natural remedies like an oatmeal bath for babies. In such cases, it is always best to consult your doctor.
Frequently Ask Questions
1. Can you give a baby an oatmeal bath?
Yes, oatmeal bath for babies is a safe and effective natural remedy for treating dry skin, minor rashes and eczema. For enhanced relief and long-lasting protection, you can also explore baby-safe products from AreoVeda - like the Diaper Rash Cream enriched with CryoOats for cooling, calming care.
2. Can you put oatmeal in a baby bath?
Yes, you can add finely ground oats (colloidal oatmeal) to your baby’s bathwater. Being finely ground, it dissolves easily and forms a soothing milky bath.
3. Is oatmeal good for baby skin?
Yes, oatmeal is very safe and gentle on a baby’s skin. It naturally soothes inflammation, reduces itching and forms a natural protective layer on the skin, locking moisture within.
4. Do I need to rinse my baby after an oatmeal bath?
No, there is no need to rinse your baby after an oatmeal bath. Simply pat your baby dry using a soft towel to allow the oatmeal’s calming properties to continue working on the skin.
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