What Should a Baby's Bathtub Be Like?

What Should a Baby's Bathtub Be Like?

Last update: 29 July, 2018

If you’re pregnant, it’s time to start thinking about all the things you’ll need when your child is born. The baby’s bathtub is one of them.

Here we’ll tell you about the features it should have so that you can choose the one that best suits your child’s needs.

Features of a baby’s bathtub

  1. A good bathtub must be durable and stable. Both features provide the safety your child needs at bath time.
  2. The shape of the bathtub should make it easier for the baby’s position to be seated or semi-seated. This reduces the risk of water covering his head.
  3. It is essential that the bathtub doesn’t have sharp edges that could harm the baby, so it is better to choose those that have rounded edges.
  4. The bathtub also shouldn’t have holes large enough for a child‘s finger to fit through, nor any spaces between pieces.

Types of baby’s bathtubs

If you’re still wondering what your baby’s bathtub should be like, we’ll now present different types of bathtubs, along with some tips that will guide you when you make a purchase.

What Should a Baby's Bathtub Be Like?
  • Traditional. These bathtubs are simple and can be easily supported on any flat, horizontal surface. They don’t have legs and are usually plastic, small and inexpensive.
  • Changing table bathtub. There are changing tables that also serve as bathtubs. These objects are usually somewhat expensive and large, although there are also folding models.
  • Travel bathtub. These are inflatable or collapsible bathtubs, specially designed for when the family goes on a trip.
  • Bathtub insert. This type of baby bathtub is placed in an adult bathtub. Its best attributes are that it saves space and has an easy filling and emptying system. It is typical for this type of bathtub to include a kind of adjustable trestle to fit the large tub.

The importance of your child’s comfort

Keep in mind that the baby should never be alone in the bathtub in order to avoid slipping. To avoid these types of accidents, it’s very useful to use a mat or a non-slip system.

Today there are many options, from foam figures with different shapes that prevent the baby from slipping, to small hammocks and hoops. These supports are very useful for bathing the baby during the period when he cannot stand up on his own.

Also, when you bathe your child, you must be very attentive to the water temperature. Make sure you fill the bathtub with cold water first and then with hot water.

Once it’s warm, you can put your child in it. It is important that it’s not very hot, since your baby’s skin is very delicate, nor very cold, so that the bath is pleasant. A recommended temperature is around 35 degrees Celsius (95 F).

Increase safety measures around the house

When a baby arrives at home, safety measures must be reinforced. That means you should leave sharp objects, cosmetics and medicines out of reach.

Likewise, unplug all electrical appliances, such as your hair dryer, shaver or epilator. In addition, it is important to place a protector inside each plug.

What Should a Baby's Bathtub Be Like?

Finally, don’t forget to close the toilet lid after using it, as young children often throw objects in it or put their hands inside it, which is very unhygienic. It’s also important to keep the floor dry to prevent slips.

Aspects to keep in mind

If you need to buy a bathtub and are overwhelmed by the amount of styles offered, it’s good to choose polypropylene, as this material is durable and doesn’t break down over time.

Likewise, it’s necessary that you look at the bathtub’s structure and make sure it adapts perfectly to the space you’ve prepared at home. Finally, the shape must be anatomical, so that the child doesn’t slip and can remain in a good position.

Remember that your baby’s bath should always be a special moment for both of you. Choosing the right baby’s bathtub will help you enjoy this time and relax before going to sleep.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.