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How to Find the Best Baby Bath Tubs

Candace Osmond

Did you just welcome a new member into the family and you’re looking to get them settled in as best as possible? Bath time can be very stressful for first-time parents, so investing in reliable products to make the transition is important. We’ll show you how to find the best baby bath tub in an ocean of products that all promise to be the best. 

1. The First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe Tub – Editor's Choice

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  • Price range: $20 – $30
  • Material: plastic, fabric
  • Size: 29.75 x 15 x 9.25 inches

2. Summer Splish 'n Splash Newborn to Toddler Tub

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  • Price range: $20 – $30
  • Material: plastic, fabric
  • Size: 31.2 x 16.9 x 8.6 inches

3. Summer Newborn to Toddler Bath

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  • Price range: $20 – $30
  • Material: plastic
  • Size: 18.39 x 29.17 x 9.84 inches

4. Inflatable Baby Bathtub

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  • Price range: $30 – $40
  • Material: polyvinyl
  • Size: 35.43 x 23.62 x 11.81 inches

5. Inflatable Baby Bathtub

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  • Price range: $30 – $40
  • Material: polyvinyl
  • Size: 35.43 x 23.62 x 11.81 inches

6. Angelcare Baby Bath Support

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  • Price range: $10 – $20
  • Material: plastic
  • Size: 22 x 13.5 x 8.75 inches

7. Boon Naked 2-Position Collapsible Baby Bathtub

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  • Price range: $70 – $80
  • Material: plastic
  • Size: 30.39 x 17.91 x 6.65 inches

8. Primo EuroBath 2-Stage Baby Bath Tub

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  • Price range: $50 – $60
  • Material: polypropylene
  • Size: 36 x 21 x 12 inches

Top 8 Best Baby Bath Tubs

These were all chosen based on their quality, function, and ease of use.

1. The First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe Tub – Editor's Choice

Highlights

  • Price range: $20 – $30
  • Material: plastic, fabric
  • Size: 29.75 x 15 x 9.25 inches

Pros

  • Comfortable sling included.
  • Washable mesh sling.
  • Can double as a toddler tub.

Cons

  • The sling headrest could use more cushioning.

This tub is one of the best out there. While they are being washed, babies are cradled in the supplied mesh sling, which provides them with additional comfort and support.

Bath time can be a less stressful experience for both babies and parents thanks to the additional security provided by the form-fitting netting.

This 3-in-1 tub also includes a deep ergonomic shape that makes it better able to handle a developing infant while they are being bathed. When the sling is removed, you are left with a baby tub that has a padded headrest and a comfortable reclining position.

2. Summer Splish 'n Splash Newborn to Toddler Tub – Runner Up

Highlights

  • Price range: $20 – $30
  • Material: plastic, fabric
  • Size: 31.2 x 16.9 x 8.6 inches

Pros

  • Includes an infant sling.
  • Equipped with a plug.
  • Covers three bathing stages.

Cons

  • Some complaints that sling was missing.

The Summer’s Splish ‘n Splash Newborn to Toddler Tub makes bath time less stressful and more enjoyable for both you and your child. The straightforward and user-friendly design cradles infants and young children from birth to the toddler years during all three stages of bathing. Cradling infants securely during bath time is made easier with the assistance of a newborn sling.

The parent assist tray, which is situated at the far end of the bathtub, makes it easier to have bath time necessities and toys close at hand. This baby tub features a simple design that maximizes space for your developing baby and includes a drain plug, making it super easy to clean.

3. Summer Newborn to Toddler Bath – Budget pick

Highlights

  • Price range: $20 – $30
  • Material: plastic
  • Size: 18.39 x 29.17 x 9.84 inches

Pros

  • 4-stage tub.
  • Includes a removable shower unit.
  • Comes with a sling.

Cons

  • Shower is flimsy.

When you’re short on cash but would like to invest in a good baby bath tub, this one is up for grabs. Bath time will be less stressful and more convenient for both the parent and the infant as a result of the four different stages that the bathtub offers.

This baby bathtub comes with a convenient newborn sling that can be used either in the sink or in the tub. Portable motorized shower units offer a mild rinse spray that can be utilized for a significant amount of time after your child has transitioned to an adult bathtub.

4. Inflatable Baby Bathtub – Best inflatable

Highlights

  • Price range: $30 – $40
  • Material: polyvinyl
  • Size: 35.43 x 23.62 x 11.81 inches

Pros

  • Great for travel and saving space.
  • Includes a drain.
  • Column to keep the baby in place.

Cons

  • Requires inflating and deflating all the time.

Inflatable bathtubs are always an option when you’re short on space or when you’re looking for a nice outdoor tub that will allow you to bathe your toddler in the yard on warm summer days. When inflated, this tub measures approximately 35.43 x 23.62 x 11.81 inches. The tub is designed with a drain and a central column to prevent the baby from slipping in the tub.

5. Inflatable Baby Bathtub – Best inflatable

Highlights

  • Price range: $30 – $40
  • Material: polyvinyl
  • Size: 35.43 x 23.62 x 11.81 inches

Pros

  • Great for travel and saving space.
  • Includes a drain.
  • Column to keep the baby in place.

Cons

  • Requires inflating and deflating all the time.

Inflatable bathtubs are always an option when you’re short on space or when you’re looking for a nice outdoor tub that will allow you to bathe your toddler in the yard on warm summer days. When inflated, this tub measures approximately 35.43 x 23.62 x 11.81 inches. The tub is designed with a drain and a central column to prevent the baby from slipping in the tub.

6. Angelcare Baby Bath Support – Best support

Highlights

  • Price range: $10 – $20
  • Material: plastic
  • Size: 22 x 13.5 x 8.75 inches

Pros

  • Can be used in tubs and large sinks.
  • Easy to store.
  • Ergonomic design.

Cons

  • Only good for small babies.

If you’re looking for a support that you can use in a regular tub or perhaps a larger sink, I’d recommend looking into this product. Think of it like a baby chair that can be placed into the tub, providing your little one with enough support for their entire body.

The support includes a hook that makes it easy to hang and get out of the way when not in use. It’s good for babies that weigh a maximum of 20 pounds.

7. Boon Naked 2-Position Collapsible Baby Bathtub – Best collapsible

Highlights

  • Price range: $70 – $80
  • Material: plastic
  • Size: 30.39 x 17.91 x 6.65 inches

Pros

  • Easy to store.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Bump to support baby’s head.

Cons

  • Not very large (read dimensions carefully).

If you’re home is on the small side and you don’t have that much room for storing stuff, then you should consider buying a collapsible tub, like this one. Made from a single piece, this tub is easy to get out of the way and store when not in use.

It’s good for small babies and has a bump on the side to accommodate the child’s head. Whenever the little one can sit, it should provide plenty of space for that, as long as the baby isn’t too big.

8. Primo EuroBath 2-Stage Baby Bath Tub – Most versatile

Highlights

  • Price range: $50 – $60
  • Material: polypropylene
  • Size: 36 x 21 x 12 inches

Pros

  • Works for babies and toddlers.
  • Compartments for storing bath products.
  • Support for the baby’s head.

Cons

  • Too big for newborns.

Welcome to the EuroBath, a tub designed for secure bath time for the baby. The EuroBath is ideal for use from the very first bath a baby takes through their second birthday and beyond because of its extra-large size and double-positioning capabilities.

It comes with a built-in drain and two separate compartments for storing things like sponges, soap, and shampoo. It includes posts for the baby to wrap their legs around. It also gives baby something to hold onto during bath time.

Things To Look for in a Baby Bath Tub

Tubs come in numerous shapes and sizes, but you don’t need anything extravagant. Your baby’s bathing tub must round sides and edges throughout to ensure their safety.

• Baby’s Age

The baby’s age should determine what type of tub is best suited. Babies that are less than 6 months old won’t have that much neck and head control, so you want a tub with a contoured design. This will allow the baby to sit in the tub in a comfortable position.

When they’re at least 6 months old and they can sit up, you want to transition to a larger tub. Make sure to use a non-skid rubber mat to keep the tub in place during bath time. 

• Foldability

You can get a baby tub that folds up if you don’t have a lot of room to work with. But keep in mind that you’ll only be utilizing it for approximately six months total. 

There are several variants available that can be collapsed, which is convenient for when you are traveling. If you’re considering getting one of these, make sure it is properly assembled and checked for stability before you put your child in it.

• Stand

Several infant tubs on the market come equipped with stands and are meant to protect the user’s back from the strain that can be caused by bending over to bathe a child. I believe that the most secure environment for washing your child is on the ground or in an infant tub that can be installed in either a sink or a bathtub.

• Temperature Indicator

If you can find a baby tub with a plug and a temperature indicator, consider buying one. These are strips that change color to indicate a certain water temperature

Some models even come with digital thermometers. If the bathtub you want to buy doesn’t have one of these, you might want to consider buying a separate one. This allows you to check the water temperature to make sure it’s at a level that’s comfortable for the baby.

• Padded Lining

To prevent a baby from moving around too much during bath time an alternative to a sling that features a contoured design is required. The majority of padding is quite thin; however, it is far more comfortable than solid plastic.

• Handles

You want a bathtub with handles because it’s easier to move around. Consider getting a model with a hook that allows you to hang the bathtub on the wall when not in use. This helps save floor space. 

Types of Baby Tubs

Various types of baby tubs can be purchased for between $20 and $40, depending on the features included, such as an in-built digital thermometer.

There are a variety of baths and bathing aids on the market, including the following:

• Infant Tubs

The slanted interior of most basic tubs allows the baby to lie back at an angle. For babies who can’t yet sit up on their own, a foam-lined mattress helps keep them safe and comfortable.

• Convertible Tubs

Your youngster will be able to grow into these tubs over time. They provide the level of safety an infant needs while also being large enough for toddlers.

A baby can be bathed in this type of tub in a reclined position from the time of birth up to about six months of age. After that, they can sit upright between the ages of six and twenty-four months (or even longer if you and your baby enjoy bath time together). 

• Mesh Sling Tubs

Newborns can be safely cradled in the tub thanks to the inclusion of nylon mesh support slings. When not in use, the sling can usually be removed from the majority of models.

Fabric slings can be supported by rods. When your infant moves from side to side or kicks their legs, we fear that the rods can become inconvenient. Hammock-style slings are another option; they lack the poles of the traditional variety. Keep an eye out for them.

• Sink/Tub Sling Inserts

They’re similar to newborn bouncy seats in that they’re usually coated with a cloth. The sling is used to support the baby while he or she is being bathed by stretching the fabric over a frame. Bathtubs are not included.

• “Spa” Bathtubs

Powered by a battery, these tubs include rotating water features and a bubble display. It’s possible to rinse your kid with fresh water with the help of a little shower nozzle that comes with some models. You’ll have to consider if you think your infant will like the spa enough to justify the cost. 

Disconcerting bubbles and swirls may even frighten your little one. To operate the shower, the user simply presses the showerhead’s on/off switch. 

This eliminates the risk of drowning associated with constantly running water. The reservoir also reduces the risk of scorching associated with showerheads with hoses that connect directly to a faucet.

 If you prefer to rinse your infant with freshwater rather than scooping water from the bath with a cup, the reservoir is a convenient alternative.

• New-Age Baths

You may come across tubs that resemble adult-sized bathtubs on the market. However, they should not be applied to a baby. Using them with toddlers seems to satisfy some online reviewers, but not everyone is happy. Some people complain that the shoes are too “slippery” and don’t provide adequate support.

You might want to check this out: Best Baby Pajamas

Do You Really Need a Baby Bathtub?

A bathtub isn’t a necessary item because you can wash your baby in the sink or bathe together with them in the tub. However, having a tub makes it way more comfortable to wash the baby, so a lot of parents prefer to get one. 

Can We Use Bath Tub for Newborn Baby?

Yes, you can put a newborn baby in a bathtub, but you have to be careful when choosing said bathtub. A few things to remember:

  • Newborns can’t support their neck and head, remember that when choosing a tub.
  • Non-skid bottoms are important in a child’s tub.
  • Make sure the tub was made with child-friendly materials. 

How Long Do Babies Use Baby Tubs?

A lot of babies switch from an infant tub to an older kids’ tub when they’re six months old. The pinpoint is the moment when children can hold their heads up without the need for any support. 

The size of your child may be a major factor in why you haven’t transitioned yet. At the age of one, some children have already outgrown their baby baths, while others may still squeeze inside of them without difficulty. 

Other considerations include the following: Perhaps your infant can sit up on her own, but they don’t have total control over their body yet. 

You could reduce the amount of water you use by sticking to a baby bath’s size. Do what makes you feel comfortable and consider your child’s needs while making decisions.

Baby Bath Tub Safety Tips

For first-time parents, bathing an infant is a very stressful time because of the potential risks associated with bath time. Consider the following tips for baby bathtub safety for a little peace of mind and more control over the situation.

Grab Everything You Need

Get what you need before you start the bath. Things like bubble bath, towels, clothes, baby pajamas, etc. It is not a good idea to leave the area to grab a towel while your child is still in the bathtub. 

If they’re not yet able to sit up alone, you should never let go of their hand while they’re in the tub. Also, refrain from picking up the bathtub once the infant has been placed into it.

Don’t Leave Your Child Out of Sight

To ensure your child’s safety, always remain within arm’s reach of him when he is near water, whether he is in a regular bathtub or a tub designed specifically for toddlers.

Bring your infant with you if you have to leave the restroom for any reason. You shouldn’t put the responsibility of watching the newborn on your older children. If your phone rings, you should ignore it. Ignore anyone who knocks on the door. 

Place the Tub Carefully

To bathe your baby, you don’t need more than two inches of water. Put the baby bathtub on a level, smooth surface that won’t let it slide around and makes things easier. This will prevent the baby bathtub from slipping. 

Do not add extra water to the tub while your baby is in it, and under no circumstances should you place the baby bathtub inside of a larger tub that is already full of water, as this could cause it to float and topple over. Be sure that the drain is clear if you are going to use an infant tub inside of your regular bathtub.

You might want to read this: How to Baby Proof Your House

The Verdict

When looking to buy a baby bathtub, safety and ergonomics should be a priority. Since babies can’t support the weight of their heads and their necks are fragile in the first months of life, they need to lie in comfortable positions when taking baths. Never leave them unsupervised and choose tubs that are stable and reliable. And for more great recs for babies, check out our list of the best baby loungers.