Your baby’s first bath is one of the earliest milestones you can enjoy with your baby. You’ve probably imagined yourself humming a relaxing lullaby while listening to your baby’s cooing and splashing. There will be a lot of such things. But also some screaming and obsession with the temperature of the water, perhaps a slippery, wobbly little body. And also…… What floats in the water?
There are many options for bathing your baby, but the best baby bathtubs are safe, comfortable, and easy to clean. Read on for tips on choosing the perfect first bath. With a little preparation, you can create a relaxed, intimate bath time in your daydreams.
What is the difference between a bathtub seat and a bathtub stand?
Like almost everything related to babies these days, you have plenty of options for bath time. There is a traditional baby bath that fits into a regular kitchen sink or is located inside an empty adult bathtub. There’s a bathroom seat, which is a tiny chair that helps older or larger babies sit up in the sink or tub – this one is especially handy if you have multiple babies. Then there is also a bath stand, which can be a small cushion, sling or reclining seat that can be placed in the sink or baby bath, allowing even the smallest newborn to rest comfortably while bathing.
As you consider your options, consider the storage space, the size of the bath or sink, and where your baby is most likely to be bathed.
What is the safest way to bathe a newborn?
There is a lot of preparation that needs to be done when bathing, and it is important to prepare in advance to ensure your baby’s comfort and safety. As bath time approaches, warm up the kitchen or bathroom, or turn off the air conditioner.
Shower carts aren’t just for camping or college. The box for storing baby bath products is very convenient. You don’t want to put your baby in the bathtub only to find out that you forgot the soap or towel. Of course, never leave the baby alone in the bath, even if it’s just to pick up something from the next room.
The recommended safe water temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Before putting the baby in, remember to test the water inside the tub or sink to make sure the water isn’t too hot. Many baby bathtubs come with temperature indicators, and there are even cute bath thermometers to help you stay within a safe temperature range.
Even if the water temperature is perfect, newborns may be irritated by the shock of this new environment – especially when the water starts to get cold. Soaking a hand towel or swaddling cloth in the bath water and then using it to cover your baby’s skin exposed above the water line can help keep your child warm and comfortable.
Finally, after the bath time is over, you need to clean the tub and let it air dry thoroughly. In the event of an accident – which is sure to happen at some point during your baby’s bathing process – disinfect the bathtub (vinegar and water solution will do) and let it dry.
Ready to get your little one clean and comfortable? Dive into our list of bathtubs to help your newborn with their first bath.
Top 10 Best Baby Bathtubs
1. Best Overall Baby Bath: Fisher Price Infant to Toddler Tub 4-in-1 Sling Seat Tub with Removable Baby Support
This popular bathtub option is one you can keep for a long time. The convertible tub includes a soft sling for newborns, an insert to help older babies stay upright, and even plenty of room for toddlers to bathe after the insert has been removed.
2. Best Transitional Bathtub from Newborn to Toddler: Frida Baby 4-in-1 Grow-with-Me Bath
The Frida Baby 4-in-1 Grow With Me bathtub boasts four different positions that allow you to use the tub between 0-24 months. In addition to an adjustable sling that can be placed in two different positions for babies from newborn to six months of age, the bathtub includes a seat and safety bar, which can also be used for older babies. The built-in hooks on the exterior make drying the bath a breeze.
3. Best Bathtub on a Budget: A comfortable bathtub for the first year
This convertible tub is priced at just $19.99 and includes a newborn carrier. Remove the sling and you have a tub spacious enough to accommodate a growing baby or toddler.
4. Best Travel Bath: Munchkin Duck Inflatable Baby Bath
Not only is this inflatable baby tub perfect for traveling, but it’s probably the cutest bathtub on the list. Easy to inflate and deflate, the Munchkin Duck Inflatable Baby Tub can turn your hotel or vacation rental tub into a clean, safe space for your baby. It also includes a heat indicator to let you know when the water is getting too hot. But keep in mind that a bathtub of this size is perfect for babies six months and older, and if you plan to travel with your baby, this will be a great addition to your registration.
5. Best Bath for Newborns: Blooming Bath Lotus Baby Bath
If you’re planning to use the sink for a bath, Blooming Bath’s Lotus baby bath can turn a regular sink into a plush and adorable newborn bath. Just place the flowers at the bottom of the sink, add water and the petals will create a soft and comfortable space for the smallest newborns.
6. Best Compact Infant Tub： BEABA by Shnuggle Baby Bath Tub
The Shnuggle Baby Bathtub BEABA looks like a stylish and chic bucket in pastel colors. It’s designed to keep your baby upright – which may come in handy if you’re dealing with reflux. It can also be used anywhere – including sinks, bathtubs, or bathroom floors – and it may come in handy if you can’t comfortably crouch by the tub or stand by the sink.
7.Best Newborn Bath Seat： Angelcare Baby Bath Support
Angelcare baby baths are designed to be placed directly into the bathtub and safely and reliably care for babies from newborn to six months of age. The mesh support is gentle on baby’s skin and easy to clean.
8.Best Baby Bath Seat： Summer Infant My Bath Seat
The Summer Infant My Bath Seat easily installs in any standard-sized bathroom with three locking suction cups and keeps your baby upright with ample back support to keep your baby hands-free. The seat is perfect for babies between 5 and 10 months old.
9.Best Collapsible Baby Bath Tub： Boon Naked 2-Position Collapsed Baby Bathtub
If space is limited in your home, the Boon Naked 2-Station Foldable Baby Bath could be the fold-out bathtub of your dreams! When fully opened, the narrow side of the asymmetrical tub is suitable for reclining newborns, while the wider end is suitable for larger babies and toddlers. When folded up, a compact tub is easy to store in a small space or hang to dry.
10. Best Bathtub for Multiple Births and Siblings: Stokke Flexi Bath X-Large
If you’re about to have twins, or your older siblings are already here, XL’s Stokke Flexi Bath can double your fun, but won’t double your time. This tub is 25% larger than the original Stokke Flexi Bath, making it easy for siblings to enter and get used to. The Stokke can be conveniently folded and may be available in XL sizes, but it can be folded up and takes up less space. Newborn support accessories are also available.