Sponge Bath for a Child's Fever

Overview

Before you give a sponge bath to a child who has a fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher, give your child an appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Wait 30 minutes then check your child's temperature. See whether the medicine brings the child's fever below 104°F (40°C).

If your child's fever is still 104°F (40°C) or higher and your child is uncomfortable, you might try a sponge bath.

Follow these steps to give a sponge bath.

• Use lukewarm water [90°F (32.2°C) to 95°F (35°C)].

  Do not use cold water, ice, or rubbing alcohol, which will lower the child's body temperature too quickly.

• Sponge for 20 to 30 minutes.
• Stop if the child starts to shiver.

If your child doesn't like the sponge bath or doesn't feel better after the bath, there is no need to give another one.