Choosing the Right Baby Bathtub for a Safe Bath Time
Bathing your newborn baby is a wonderful experience, but it can also be a daunting task. A baby bathtub can make bath time less stressful for parents and fun for baby.
So how do you know which bathtub is best for your newborn? To make the process less difficult, here’s what you should consider when purchasing a newborn bathtub.
Choosing the Right Bathtub
With so many options available it can be difficult to know what to look for. Here are our pointers to help you select the most suitable baby bathtub for a safe bath time.
- You should choose a bathtub that suits your needs. A bathtub needs to be practical, and most importantly ensure your babies safety.
- Are you planning on having more babies in the future? Think about the longevity of the baby bathtub.
- Consider add-ons, would you prefer a bathtub with a bath seat and a shower head attachment?
- Do you want to stand or sit when bathing your baby? A bath stand will be helpful if you wish to reduce backaches.
- Don’t forget about emptying the bathtub, is there an easy plug?
- Is a foldable bath more suitable for you? Do you have the space for storage?
Keep in mind that for newborns, a daily bath isn’t necessary. Instead, a sponge bath in any warm, water-friendly place (such as a waterproof changing pad) is ideal. A newborn baby’s skin is too sensitive for frequent washing, and besides, your newborn is not going to be particularly dirty. Once the umbilical stump falls off, though, baby will be ready for the real thing.
For more handy information, read our Newborn Checklist: A Guide for Soon-To-Be Moms, this guide will help to guide you throughout the first year of having your child.
How to use a Baby Bathtub Safely
- A baby can never be left unattended. Babies can easily slip under the water and
drown within minutes without splashing or making any noise. - Remember a baby bath seat in a tub is not a safety device. Nothing substitutes
parental supervision. - Prepare your baby’s bathing area before placing your baby in the tub.
- Ensure all toiletries and the bath towel are within reach.
- Rather opt for toiletries that have a pump action head as opposed to a traditional cap
so you can always keep one hand on your baby. - Always check the water’s temperature. About 37°C is just right.
Types of Baby Bathtubs
There are many different kinds of baby bathtubs available. Using our pointers above you should select a baby bathtub that will suit your needs and budget. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common baby bathtub options, and our favourite picks. If you want to learn more about these products, check out baby bath tub reviews from real parents.
Standard Baby Bathtubs
These are standalone mini-tubs that can either be used in your kitchen sink or the bathtub, depending on their size. They generally come with an anti-slip bottom.
Our pick has to be the Ikea LÄTTSAM Baby Bath Tub. The bathtub stands steady thanks to the slide protectors underneath. It also has soft anti-slip protection in the bottom. Made from harmless plastic, the same material used in baby bottles, disposable nappies and food boxes.
Convertible Baby Bathtubs
These grow along with your baby, converting from a newborn tub with a sling to cradle your baby to a traditional basin tub.
The cheerful whale-shaped Moby Smart Sling 3-Stage Tub is our favourite. The tub grows with baby through three stages and offers Smart Sling™ support. The sling locks into two ergonomic positions: higher for full-body support and lower for seated support. Dual layered mesh and comfort-edge construction securely cradles baby from head-to-toe. The slings adjusts to a cushioned seat that comfortably supports babies learning to sit. Remove the sling when baby has mastered sitting and easily bathe baby in the spacious tub—no uncomfortable plastic bumps.
Inflatable Baby Bathtubs
Inflatable tubs can be tossed right into your bag or suitcase when you’re on the go, making it ideal for travel. They also work as a comfy spot to contain a busy baby, but are best suited to babies who can sit.
The Munchkin White Hot Duck inflatable bath tub gets our vote. A good choice when you want a lightweight travel bath that is great value for money, and will last for up to 3 years, and eventually double as a pool toy. Thanks to the padded design, your little one gets a safe and comfy environment. The duck’s tail offers additional back support for your baby. The Munchkin bath tub is sturdy and doesn’t fall over when it’s filled with water.
With a market flooded with bathtub styles, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Let our recommendations and insider details help you narrow down your baby bathtub selection. We are confident that there’s a baby bathtub that will suit your needs, preference and budget.
