Fever is a common sign that the body is fighting an infection or illness. Children can develop fever during seasonal changes, and parents often try to bring down their temperature by placing a wet cloth on the forehead. However, this alone may not make the child feel better. According to paediatrician Dr Mohit Sethi, parents often follow methods they have seen in films rather than understanding how sponging works. Experts recommend monitoring the child’s temperature, keeping them comfortable and seeking medical advice when needed. It is also important to remember that fever is a symptom, not a disease in itself.
Mistake 1: Sponging Only the Forehead
One common mistake parents make is repeatedly placing a wet cloth on the child’s forehead while ignoring the rest of the body. Dr Mohit Sethi describes this as “Bollywood-style sponging,” referring to the familiar scenes in films where a wet cloth is placed on someone’s forehead during a fever. However, sponging the forehead alone is not a reliable way to bring down a fever. Parents should focus on keeping the child comfortable rather than repeatedly wiping one small area. If the child is distressed or the fever is high, medical advice is important.
Mistake 2: Using Ice-Cold Water
Some parents use water taken directly from the refrigerator, believing that colder water will reduce the fever faster. However, very cold water can cause shivering and discomfort. Shivering may increase the body’s heat production, making the child feel worse. If a doctor recommends sponging, lukewarm water or water at a comfortable room temperature is generally preferable to ice-cold water. The aim should be to keep the child comfortable, not to cool the body suddenly. Stop sponging if the child starts shivering or becomes distressed.
Mistake 3: Rubbing the Child’s Body Too Hard
Sponging should not involve vigorous rubbing or scrubbing. If it is recommended, use a clean, soft cotton cloth and gently wipe the skin. Keep the child in light, comfortable clothing and avoid wrapping them in thick blankets. The goal is to prevent overheating and maintain comfort. Parents should not force sponging on a child who is uncomfortable or resisting it. Medical guidance is especially important for young children and babies, because the right approach depends on their age, symptoms and overall condition.
Mistake 4: Repeatedly Wiping Without Letting the Skin Dry
The article explains that some parents keep dipping the cloth in water and wiping the child continuously without allowing the skin to dry. Evaporation can help remove heat from a wet surface, but repeated sponging is not necessary if it makes the child uncomfortable. More importantly, sponging is not routinely recommended for every fever and may provide only temporary relief. Parents should focus on fluids, rest and suitable clothing. If a child appears unusually sleepy, has difficulty breathing, develops a seizure or shows signs of dehydration, urgent medical care is needed.
What Parents Should Do When a Child Has Fever
Use a thermometer rather than relying only on how warm the child feels. Offer fluids regularly and allow the child to rest. Do not give medicines without checking the correct dose and suitability for the child’s age; follow medical advice, particularly for babies. Fever in a baby younger than three months requires prompt medical assessment, especially at a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher. For older children, seek medical advice if the fever persists, symptoms worsen or the child seems seriously unwell. The priority is to identify the cause and keep the child safe and comfortable.
