How to give a bed bath

Regular bathing is important for maintaining good hygiene and promoting physical and mental wellbeing. But for those with mobility issues, a traditional bath or shower isn’t always possible. If your loved one struggles to bathe independently, a bed bath could offer a practical and effective solution.

With the right techniques, you can give your loved one a safe and dignified bed bath that leaves them feeling fresh and cared for. Read on to learn how to give a bed bath to elderly adults and those with disabilities.

What is a bed bath?

A bed bath, also called a sponge bath, is a way of bathing someone who is unable to get out of bed. For example, they may be elderly or have long-term mobility issues that make bathing or showering tricky. Bed baths can also be useful for those on bed rest following an illness, injury or surgery. 

Whatever the reason, a bed bath is an effective way to keep someone clean and comfortable if they cannot have a shower or bath. It also presents an opportunity to check for rashes, infections and injuries such as pressure sores. 

Depending on your loved one’s mobility level, you may need to wash every part of their body or only certain areas. It’s important to respect their dignity and do whatever you can to help them feel relaxed.

Preparing to give someone a bed bath

Before starting a bed bath, gather all the necessary supplies and ensure your loved one's room is set up properly. Some key things you'll need include:

• A waterproof bed sheet or mattress protector
• Two wash basins or buckets – one for washing and one for rinsing
• Bath towels 
• Flannels or washcloths
• A soft blanket
• Soap or body wash, shampoo and conditioner
• Body lotion or moisturiser
• Clean clothes or pyjamas
• A surface to hold everything, such as an over-bed table

Start by having your loved one lie on a waterproof sheet or dry towel to help protect the mattress. Make sure the room is warm, well-lit and free of draughts, and close the blinds, curtains and door for privacy. Your loved one may appreciate listening to some calming music or watching TV to help them feel more relaxed.

You may wish to use positioning aids to help your loved one find a comfortable semi-upright position for the bed bath. A bed grab rail can also provide an extra point of stability and support. For those requiring more assistance, a bedroom hoist may be necessary.

Giving a bed bath: step-by-step

When giving a bed bath, it’s best to wash, rinse and dry one part of the body at a time. Start with the cleanest areas, beginning with the face, neck and arms, and finish with the genital area. 

Explain what you’re going to do, and check that your loved one is ready to begin. Then:

• Fill both basins with warm water – it should not be hotter than 43°C. Wash your hands, or put on gloves if you prefer. 
• Help your loved one undress. Then, cover them with a blanket or towel for warmth and privacy, uncovering each area one by one.
• Wet the flannel with soap and water from the first basin, wringing it out slightly so that it doesn’t drip too much. Wash the area thoroughly, then rinse it using water from the second bowl. 
• Dry the skin completely and cover it before moving onto the next area. Use a clean section of the flannel each time, replacing it with a new one when necessary. 
• Whenever the water starts to look dirty or feel cool, rinse out the basin and refill it. Make sure to test the temperature.
• Once your loved one is clean and dry all over, help them to apply body lotion or moisturiser and put on some clean clothes.

Allow your loved one to wash themselves independently as much as possible, offering assistance when they need it. For example, you may need to help them roll over and wash their back. If you need to leave briefly, such as to change the water, ensure they cannot fall out of bed.

Maintain open communication throughout the bed bath, ensuring that your loved one feels comfortable. Take your time, and speak in a calm, positive tone of voice. This should help you both feel more relaxed.

How to bathe an elderly person in bed

Bathing an elderly person in bed is much like giving a bed bath to anyone else. However, there are a few things to bear in mind.

Firstly, for elderly people, keep the water closer to body temperature – around 37-38°C. Older individuals may be more vulnerable to the effects of heat, such as fainting, overheating or dry skin. However, it is equally important to ensure that they don’t get too cold.

If the person has skin folds or wrinkles, make sure to clean underneath them and dry them thoroughly. These areas can be prone to developing irritation, rashes and fungal infections. Don’t apply lotion underneath skin folds, as they should be kept dry.

Head to Complete Care Shop today to browse our full range of bedroom aids, washing aids, mobility aids and more. For personalised product recommendations or assistance, contact us.