<P> Some claim the phrase originates from a time when the whole household shared the same bath water . The head of household (Lord) would bathe first, followed by the men, then the Lady and the women, then the children, followed lastly by the baby . The water would be so black from dirt that a baby could be accidentally "tossed out with the bathwater". Others state there is no historical evidence that there is any connection with the practice of several family members using the same bath water, the baby being bathed last . </P> <P> The meaning and intent of the English idiomatic expression is sometimes presented in different terms . </P> <Ul> <Li> Throw out the champagne with the cork </Li> <Li> Empty the baby out with the bath </Li> </Ul> <Li> Throw out the champagne with the cork </Li>

Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater examples