I’m a Swimming Instructor – This Is the Deadly Mistake Parents Make With Their Children’s Towels
As a professional swimming instructor, I’ve seen many things around pools and swim classes — from proud first swims to teary goodbyes at the edge of the water.
But there’s one mistake parents make over and over that could be far more dangerous than they realize.
It involves something as simple as a towel.
The Common Mistake: Wrapping the Towel Around the Child’s Head and Face
After swim lessons or pool time, many parents wrap a towel tightly around their child — especially the head — thinking it will keep them warm. While the intention is good, covering a wet child’s head and face with a thick towel can actually cause overheating and breathing difficulties, especially in younger children.
Some even fall asleep in the car wrapped like this, making it hard for them to breathe properly, especially if the towel shifts.
Why It’s Risky:
- Wet towels can restrict airflow around the mouth and nose.
- Young children may not have the awareness or strength to adjust the towel if it slips into their face.
- In rare cases, this can lead to suffocation or overexertion, especially after physical activity like swimming.
What You Should Do Instead:
- Wrap the towel around their shoulders, not over the face.
- Use a hooded towel or poncho towel, which keeps them warm without covering their nose or mouth.
- Dry their face gently, then leave it uncovered.
- Keep an eye on them if they fall asleep, especially in car seats, while wrapped in towels or blankets.
Final Thoughts
Swimming is a wonderful skill and a joyful activity, but safety doesn’t end at the edge of the pool. Something as innocent as a towel can become a risk if used the wrong way.
As a swim instructor, I urge all parents: keep your child’s face clear, and stay alert — even in the little moments. Sometimes, the smallest changes make the biggest difference.
