Deciding what type of insert you need for your baby to bathe in is going to depend on several different factors, like the amount of space you have (including whether you’ll be using it in a sink or a standard bathtub). Moreover, look for baby bathtubs with neck support, back support, or even a molded design to fit their bodies comfortably. We carefully considered design, value, material, and any age recommendations when reviewing products. Whatever your budget or bathroom situation, here are the best baby bathtubs. The tub fits in both a sink and a bathtub, and can also be used in a stand-alone shower. It’s priced relatively low compared to its competitors. The bathtub’s ergonomic design, adaptability, and price make it a favorite among new moms. Choose from a bold blue or a bright pink for your child. You’ll be happy to know that the hammock is machine washable, and it has mildew-resistant pads. Price at time of publication: $34 Overall, this bathtub is a great pick for newborns. It’s compact, easy to clean, and can be used until they’re sitting up on their own. Price at time of publication: $30 This product is great for those who don’t want to bend over and strain their back or who don’t have space for a bigger bathtub. Choose from eight different colored flowers to suit your baby’s style (or your own). Price at time of publication: $40 Once your baby has outgrown the tub, you can take it outside for a mini outdoor pool. Parents have even pulled their kids around in this in the snow, and have put it to use as a cooler when they’re entertaining. Your kids (and you!) will love this friendly duck for many, many years. Price at time of publication: $13 All in all, this bathtub is easy to set up, a breeze to maneuver, and the perfect size for a baby’s or toddler’s bath time. Price at time of publication: $70 Once bath time is done, it lays flat, so it can easily be tucked in a drawer or closet or even hung from the shower wall. You don’t have to worry about mold and mildew building up on it either, as the foam (which is BPA- and PVC-free) doesn’t absorb water. It’s not a tub that you’re going to use for years, as it’s really designed for about the first 6 months of a baby’s life, but for that time, parents say it’s a fantastic bathtub. Many also note that it’s great that you can keep filling the Puj with fresh water, while the dirty water flows out. Price at time of publication: $45 You can place it in a regular bathtub or directly on the floor or another smooth surface. When bath time is over, pull the plug from the bottom and the water drains out. This inflatable tub is designed for babies 6 to 24 months old. Price at time of publication: $20 All you need to do is fill up your tub a few inches, secure the seat and slip your baby in. They’ll love being able to splash around, and you’ll feel confident your baby won’t fall over. Price at time of publication: $45 The tub can also fold in half, making it perfectly compact, especially if you only have a shower to work with. You can store it under the bathroom sink or take it with you while on the go. Price at time of publication: $35 The tub also features a clean water reservoir, which allows clean water to flow in while dirty water exits the drain. There’s even a digital thermometer built into the tub to help parents and caregivers find the perfect temperature for their baby’s skin. Price at time of publication: $60
What to Look for in a Baby Bathtub
Stand-Alone vs. Tub
Deciding what type of insert you need for your baby to bathe in is going to depend on several different factors. You’ll want to consider the age of your baby and the type of bathing area you have to work with, like a tub, shower, or kitchen sink. From there, you can choose whether the actual bathroom tub will work, or if you’ll need to buy a stand-alone baby tub. Stand-Alone: Stand-alone bathtubs are great for families who do not have a bathtub or need to wash a baby under 6 months old. Pros
Great for newborns/younger babies (with the right support)Non-slip surface built inCan be used almost anywhereSome are foldable for storage and portability
Cons
Not all options can fit in a sinkNot much room for toysMay be outgrown quicklyCan be bulky
Tub: Using a regular bathroom tub is an option many parents and caregivers choose because it means one less baby item taking up space, and there’s more room for washing baby and playtime. Pros
More room for toys, washcloths, and other bath-time needsGreat for older babies (typically, 6 months and up)Easier to fill
Cons
Bending over can be hard on parent’s/caregiver’s backNon-slip surface needs to be addedNot newborn-friendly
Support
One of the most important features in a baby bathtub is support for baby, especially if they’re young. You’ll need to consider a baby’s age, if they have good neck control, and whether they can sit up unassisted. This will help you determine what support they’ll need in the tub. For example, if you’re bathing a newborn, you’ll need a bathtub that provides neck support. Overall support is important for younger babies who cannot sit up independently. Look for baby bathtubs with neck support, back support, or even a molded design to fit their bodies comfortably.
Material
Baby bathtubs comes in many different kinds of materials. Some are easier to clean than others, and that’s something to consider. You may also want to think about baby’s age and if you want a bathtub that’s soft to the touch. Plush baby bathtubs are all about softness for baby. Some are designed to fit in the sink while others can be used in a regular tub. If you’re looking for a bathtub designed for newborns, these are a great option. Mesh bathtubs provide a non-slip surface for babies of any age. If you aren’t a fan of plush or mesh, you can opt for plastic or vinyl. These are easy to clean and can be used just about anywhere.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Katrina Cossey has been a digital content producer and news and feature writer for more than six years. She has covered local and national news as well as writing and researching parenting topics. Katrina is a parent herself, and used the Angelcare Baby Bath Support (view at BuyBuyBaby) when her child was a newborn. It made bath time much easier thanks to its ergonomic design, and it was easy to clean. Remember that a newborn will need a baby bathtub with neck support, whereas an older infant who can hold their head up might not. Finally, consider your space. Do you have room for a large tub, or do you need something smaller that can fold up? Will you be bathing your child in the kitchen sink? Your space requirements will need to inform your decision.
