Safe Bathtime: The Best Baby Bath Tubs

Do you really need an infant bathtub?

Having an infant bathtub is not considered a necessity. There are several other alternatives, such as bathing together, regular bathtubs, and a kitchen sink. But, an infant bathtub makes the job easier on many levels.

The infant bathtub, designed especially for small cute humans, makes handling simple and safer. Newborns are very sensitive and fragile. They cannot support their head and back, which means you need to hold them carefully at all times.

Bathing together or using the sink may be an alternative. However, cleaning the baby while handling makes it all difficult. There is no proper support to rest your baby on as you clean.

Also, new moms find standing beside a baby bathtub more comfortable than sitting down. The position not only makes accessing bathing products convenient but eases the discomfort during early days too.

Another benefit of using baby bathtubs is less prep time. When bathing in sinks or regular tubs, one has to scrub the surface thoroughly before every use. Although you do have to clean baby bathtubs, it takes nearly half the time and effort.

What type of baby tub is best?

Generally, the best type of baby bathtub is one with a contoured design and side supports. The bathtub should be comfortable for both the baby and you.

But, baby bathtubs come in a diversity of forms and styles. You will find collapsible, 2-in-1’s, portable, and whatnot. All these variations can make selecting the ideal one difficult. Here is a brief overview of the most common baby tubs in the market:

Bathtubs with Mesh Support
These tubs have a frame covered in mesh lining that provides support to your baby when bathing. Often, these are removable for easy cleaning.

Collapsible Bathtubs
Also called foldable, the collapsible bathtubs allow you to fold them once bathed. These have a flexible and soft structure. You can open and place them in a regular bathtub or a sink that provides support.

Spa Bathtubs
These innovative bathtubs come with various cool features for your kid to enjoy. Some spa bathtubs have a water-swirling or bubbling feature. Meanwhile, some have lights, music, or vibration mode to make bathing a soothing experience. These tubs come at a premium price.

Factors to consider in the best baby bathtub

Although deciding the type of baby bathtub is the most important factor, you must also consider other features to make it the ideal pick. These include:

Size

Many people will recommend you to buy a bathtub according to the baby size. But, we all know how quickly a baby becomes a toddler. You don’t want to purchase a new baby bathtub every month, now do you?

And so, you must examine the dimensions carefully. Most baby bathtubs last from the newborn stage to around 6-months. But, you may even find one that lasts much longer.

Surface

Some bathtubs can be extremely slippery that will make handling your baby difficult. Your baby can also slip, especially newborns. Hence, choose bathtubs that either offer some sort of support or come with a non-skid surface.

Temperature Control

Babies have sensitive skin that can make too warm or too cold water harmful. So, purchase a baby bathtub that comes with a temperature control feature or thermostat. It will prevent the water from reaching extreme temperatures.

Storage

If you’ve storage issues in your home, you can always opt for a small and collapsible baby bathtub. These fold into a compact structure that you can store in a cabinet or cupboard.

Maintenance

Once done bathing, you’ll have to clean the tub thoroughly to prevent germs. Look for bathtubs that feature a built-in plug. It will make emptying the dirty water easy. Also, ensure any additional parts, like mesh lining support, are removable. It will make cleaning all corners easier.

How do you bathe a baby in a bathtub?

Bathing a baby can be a challenging experience for new moms. You need to be quite gentle, patient, and most importantly, vigilant. However, after some practice, bathing can also be a great connecting activity for babies and parents.

Once you’ve bought a baby bathtub, you need to get special bathing products too. Purchase a quality shampoo, soap, towels, moisturizer, and other relevant tools.

Begin by filling the bathtub with some warm water. Keep it a few inches only as too much water can be dangerous. Also, maintain a constant moderate temperature.

When prepared, hold your baby gently and lower him into the tub. Ensure water does not enter the mouth or nose in any way.

Gradually, wipe the face using a sponge. Wash his body with a washcloth and soap. Then, take some shampoo and wash the baby’s hair. Make sure no water runs down the face, especially the eyes.

Once done, dry the baby using towels. Do not let the skin stay exposed to the air for long as it can reduce moisture. Pat him dry, and apply some moisturizer.

Best Baby Bath Tub FAQS

At what age can a baby sit in the bathtub?A baby can support his head and back at the age of 3 to 6-months. Until then, mums can bathe their babies in a proper infant baby bathtub. At the age of 7-months, you can clean a baby in a standard bathtub too.

Where should I place my baby's bathtub?

You can practically place the baby bathtub almost anywhere. However, ensure that the tub is on a stable straight surface. It should not be near the edges or too high from the ground. Also, the surface must be sturdy enough to support both the bathtub and the baby.

What can I use instead of a baby bathtub?

Although baby bathtubs are the best option, these aren’t necessary. You can use other alternatives like a big bowl or bucket. To make things simple, you can wash your baby in a bathroom or kitchen sink.

How often should babies bathe?

Ideally, you must bathe your baby twice or thrice a week. In case your little one enjoys bathing, there is no harm in doing it every day. But, keep the bathing time short as too much water and drying can reduce moisture.