How Often Should You Bathe Your Child?

Doctors shares the dos and don'ts of bath time.

Few kids love baths and it seems to be a daily struggle for some parents. Do kids really need a bath every day?

According to doctors interviewed by Yahoo, the answers vary depending on age.

Babies and Toddlers:

Babies don't need baths daily. Not until they are crawling around in sandboxes or eating solid foods or getting dirty enough to merit a full body wash.

If the diaper area is kept squeaky clean, the folds under the armpits and the folds under the armpits and groin area are cleaned regularly with a wet washcloth, they are good to go.

If you bathe them more frequently than three times per week, their skin can dry out and cause eczema.

Kids Ages 6-11:

Surprisingly, kids in this age group only need a bath about once or twice a week. This is true even if they are active, get muddy or go swimming. Most kids spend time indoors and can skip a daily bath.

Kids immune systems are still maturing, and they benefit from being around viruses, bacteria and dirt.

Tweens:

Ah, puberty. Tweens and teens are recommended to take daily baths and showers, plus washing their face twice a day to remove dirt and oil.

Adults:

The answer may surprise you: