Babies turn our lives and the rules upside down. Take water for example. While it’s the elixir of life for adults, it’s strictly off-limits for babies under six months. As clear and harmless as it seems, giving water to young babies is widely misunderstood. Let’s bust six common myths about babies and water.

Myth One: ‘A Few Sips Won’t Hurt!’

It will. It’s common advice from well-meaning relatives and elders: ‘Give the baby a little water on a hot day.’ But even tiny amounts can disrupt an infant’s delicate fluid balance. Babies’ kidneys aren’t mature enough to handle excess water before six months, increasing the risk of hyponatraemia, a condition where sodium levels drop dangerously low, potentially leading to seizures or brain swelling. As careful parents, don’t risk it based on hearsay.

Takeaway: The signs of water intoxication can be subtle at first, so it’s important for parents to observe changes in their baby’s behaviour closely.

Myth Two: Babies Need Water to Stay Hydrated

Be assured folks, they already get it! So, relax! In reality, breast milk and formula are around 80 per cent water—nature’s incorporated hydration plan. They contain the right balance of nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes for a developing body. Even in warmer climates, babies don’t need plain water. Introducing it too early can fill their tiny stomachs and reduce milk intake, impacting nutrition and growth.

Takeaway: Feeding frequency adjusts naturally to meet hydration needs; babies often nurse more during hot weather without needing extra water.

Myth Three: Water Helps with Digestion or Sleep

There’s simply no evidence behind it. It’s a persistent belief that water can soothe colic, relieve constipation, or help babies sleep longer. However, there’s no scientific support for these ideas that have been around for ages. On the contrary, replacing milk with water can reduce essential calorie and nutrient intake. This could potentially disrupt sleep and digestion rather than improve them. Better not to disrupt the natural flow of a baby’s life.

Takeaway: Breast milk and formula contain enzymes and hormones that actively support digestion. These are benefits plain water cannot provide.

Myth Four: The Dangers Are Overblown

Far from it. Water intoxication in babies under six months is rare, but real. Undeveloped kidneys can’t flush excess water effectively, which strains the system. Early water intake can lead to lethargy, vomiting, seizures, and, in rare cases, coma. This isn’t fearmongering; it’s physiology of babies. Even if you try giving just spoonfuls, sometimes out of sheer urge, it’s still not worth the risk.

Takeaway: Premature babies or those with health conditions may be even more vulnerable to water-related complications, requiring extra caution.

Myth Five: Only Water Prevents Dehydration

Not true up to six months! Healthy, well-fed infants don’t need plain water to avoid dehydration. It’s during illnesses like vomiting, fever, or diarrhoea that dehydration becomes a risk. Warning signs include fewer wet nappies (fewer than 6–8 in 24 hours), dry lips, no tears, or a sunken soft spot. If you suspect dehydration, increase milk feeds or consult your doctor. In hot weather, offer more frequent breast milk or formula feeds, only give water if advised by a healthcare professional.

Takeaway: Oral rehydration solutions are preferred over water alone when treating dehydration in babies, as they safely replace essential electrolytes.

Myth Six: Water Is the Next Step After Milk

Yes, but only after six months. Many parents wonder when it’s safe to give water to their baby. Wait until solid foods begin and your baby’s kidneys are mature enough to handle it. Start with small sips of about 60–120 ml per day during meals, using an open or straw cup to encourage healthy sipping and oral development. Avoid bottles, as they can interfere with this process and increase the risk of tooth decay. Gradually increase water to around 240 ml by 12 months, while breast milk or formula remains the main source of nutrition. Always provide clean, safe water (filtered or boiled and cooled if needed). Be patient as your baby learns to drink independently.

Takeaway: Introducing water with meals also helps develop oral motor skills and encourages independence in drinking.

Water is life, but timing is key. In the early months, breast milk or formula is all your baby needs. The breastfeeding parent stays hydrated, their milk will be waterier and hydrating for the baby. Water can wait. When the time comes, introduce it mindfully and moderately—because even something as natural as water needs the right moment to be truly safe.