Bathing a newborn is a slippery business. You want to get them squeaky clean, but you also need to support their head, keep them warm, and prevent them from wiggling out of your grasp.
We know the struggle of trying to keep a baby’s head above water with one hand while reaching for the soap with the other. We found a better way. We tested the top options to find 10 terrific tubs for every home and budget.
We will break down the different styles, what features actually matter, and review the best baby bathtubs to keep your little one safe and happy during splash time.
- Soft and supportive
- Adjustable recline position
- Machine washable fabric
- Supportive and cozy
- Fits many bathroom washbasins
- Won’t take up much storage space
- Versatile
- Extra accessories included
- Removable bathtub feet
- Fun design
- Compact for transportation
- Tail doubles as a head cushion
Types of Baby Bathtubs
Gone are the days of the one-size-fits-all plastic bin. Today, you can find tubs in every shape and size designed to simplify baby’s bathtime. Here are the most common styles you will encounter.
Standard Plastic Tubs
These are the most basic and durable options. Usually made from hard plastic, they might feature a sloped interior, a built-in seat, or a foam headrest. Some are designed to rest over a kitchen sink, while others stand alone or fit inside your family bathtub.
Mesh Slings
Newborns are tiny and hard to hold when wet. A sling or hammock attachment is a lifesaver for the first few months. It clips onto a standard tub or frame to cradle your baby above the water, giving you a free hand to wash them without worrying about support.
Convertible Grow-With-Me Tubs
These tubs adapt as your baby develops. They typically start with a newborn sling or insert. As your child gains neck control, you remove the insert to reveal a supportive seat. Finally, you can remove the seat entirely to give your toddler room to play with bath toys.
Inflatable Travel Tubs
If you are short on space or love to travel, inflatable tubs are a smart pick. They blow up to provide a soft, cushioned bathing area and deflate flat for storage. Most include a drainage plug and a non-slip bottom, though they are generally less durable than hard plastic.
Collapsible Tubs
These offer the best of both worlds: the structure of a tub with the storage benefits of an inflatable. They fold flat or collapse inward, allowing you to slide them into a cupboard or hang them up when not in use.
Luxury Spa Tubs
If you want to spoil your little one, these tubs take clean-up to the next level. Features can include battery-operated water jets, bubbling spa settings, and clean-water rinsing showers. They are usually heavier and pricier than standard tubs.
Bucket Tubs
These look exactly like they sound. They are deep, bucket-shaped tubs designed to hold the baby in an upright sitting position. The water covers their shoulders to keep them warm, and the shape mimics the womb to help soothe fussy infants.
How to Choose
Bathtubs vary significantly in function and footprint. Here are the specific features we look for when selecting the best options.
Safety and Traction
Water and babies are a slippery combination. Look for non-slip surfaces inside the tub to keep your baby stable, and rubberized feet on the outside to prevent the tub from sliding across the counter or floor.
Smooth Contours
Your baby’s skin is delicate. Inspect the tub for any rough edges, sharp plastic seams, or pinching points. The rim and interior curves should be perfectly smooth and rounded.
Durability and Stability
You need a tub that holds its shape when filled with heavy water. If you choose an inflatable or foldable model, ensure the locking mechanisms are secure so it does not collapse mid-bath.
Newborn Support
Newborns have zero neck control. A good tub must offer specific support for this stage. Look for a mesh sling, a fabric hammock, or a contoured “bum bump” that prevents the baby from sliding down into the water.
Size and Longevity
Babies grow incredibly fast. Check the weight and height limits of the tub. A model that accommodates newborns and transitions to a toddler seat will save you money and storage space in the long run.
Comfort Features
Hard plastic can be cold and uncomfortable. Features like foam backrests or padded headrests make a big difference in how much your baby enjoys the water.
Storage Capabilities
Consider where you will put the tub when it is dry. If you have a small bathroom, look for a tub with a hook for hanging or a collapsible design that fits under the sink.
Portability
If you plan to visit grandparents or travel frequently, a bulky plastic tub is not practical. Inflatable or flat-folding tubs are ideal for tossing in the trunk or a suitcase.
Drainage Options
A drain plug makes cleanup much easier. Without one, you have to tip the entire tub over to empty it, which can be heavy and messy.
Hygiene and Mold Resistance
Nooks and crannies love moisture. Simple designs are easier to wipe down. If the tub has foam pads or fabric slings, ensure they are quick-drying or machine-washable to prevent mold growth.
Temperature Safety
Some tubs feature built-in thermometers or color-changing plugs. These give you a quick visual cue if the water is too hot for sensitive skin.
Product Reviews
We have scrubbed, soaked, and tested to find the top tubs. Here are our favorite baby bathtubs and bath seats.
The First Years Sure Comfort Baby Bathtub
Best Budget Baby Bathtub
This tub is a classic for a reason. It is budget-friendly, yet it includes all the essential features found in expensive models. It is designed to last from the very first sponge bath up until the toddler years, holding children up to 25 pounds.
For the newborn stage, it includes a mesh sling hammock. This suspends your baby above the water, which is perfect for keeping the umbilical cord dry while you clean them. It holds slippery infants securely, so you don’t have to stress about dropping them.
Once your baby outgrows the sling, the tub’s design takes over. The deep ergonomic shape features a “bum bump” that stops your baby from sliding down into the water. The padded backrest adds a layer of comfort and prevents them from slipping against the hard plastic.
When your child can sit up independently, you simply flip them to the other side of the tub. This gives them a wider area to play and splash.
We also appreciate the built-in storage cubby for soap or washcloths. It fits over most double sinks, or you can place it inside your bathtub.
Pros
- Color variety: Available in two colors.
- Longevity: Usable from birth through toddlerhood.
- Value: An affordable option that does not feel cheap.
Cons
- Leakage: The drainage plug can seep slightly.
- Bulk: It is large and does not fold, making storage tricky.
Our Ratings
Summer Infant Deluxe Baby Bather
Best Baby Bathtub for the Sink
Bathing a baby in the sink saves your back, but sinks are cold and hard. This bather from Summer Infant solves that problem. It is essentially a soft, mesh chair that fits inside your sink or adult bathtub.
The fabric is soft against delicate skin and features a colorful pattern. It cradles the baby’s head and body, providing plenty of support without the bulk of a plastic tub.
You can adjust the recline to three different positions, which helps you find the safest angle for your newborn. It is lightweight and folds flat, making it easy to store in a vanity drawer or pack for a trip.
Cleaning is effortless. You can remove the sling and toss it in the washing machine, then dry it on a low setting. It stays fresh and mildew-free much easier than foam pads.
Pros
- Comfort: Soft mesh is gentle and supportive.
- Adjustable: Features three recline positions.
- Hygiene: Machine washable fabric is easy to clean.
Cons
- Size limit: Only fits babies up to 24 inches long.
Our Ratings
Boon Soak 3-Stage Bathtub
Best Baby Tub for the Shower
If you only have a shower stall or prefer a modern aesthetic, the Boon Soak is a great pick. It is a rigid, one-piece tub with a compact footprint that sits nicely on a shower floor.
The standout feature is the adjustable bump. You can position it to lock a newborn in place so they don’t slide underwater. As they grow, you can reverse the bump to create a seated position, or remove it entirely for toddlers.
The drain plug changes color to indicate temperature, taking the guesswork out of getting the water right. It keeps the water level appropriate and drains easily.
One trade-off for the sleek design is comfort; the hard plastic surface isn’t as cozy as a mesh sling, but the foam backing offers some relief.
Pros
- Capacity: Large enough to last from newborn to toddler.
- Material: Easy-to-clean, non-toxic plastic.
- Versatility: Adjustable positioning bump.
Cons
- Surface: Hard plastic may not be comfortable for smaller babies.
Our Ratings
Beaba by Shnuggle Baby Bathtub
Best Baby Tub for Small Spaces
When space is tight, a giant plastic tub isn’t an option. The Shnuggle is compact, lightweight, and incredibly water-efficient, using only about half a gallon to fill.
The design is unique: it sits upright like a bucket. This allows the baby to be submerged up to their shoulders, keeping them warm and mimicking the feeling of the womb. A large “bum bump” in the bottom supports the baby’s bottom, preventing them from sliding forward.
It has a foam backrest for comfort and warmth. The rubber feet on the bottom grip the floor or bathtub surface securely, so you don’t have to wrestle the tub while washing the baby.
While it is excellent for the first year, it doesn’t offer much room for play once your baby reaches toddlerhood.
Pros
- Compact: Fits in large sinks or on the floor; easy to store.
- Design: “Bum bump” supports baby safely upright.
- Style: Back cushion available in three colors.
Cons
- Lifespan: Not suitable for toddlers.
- Access: The seated position makes washing the baby’s bottom tricky.
- Newborns: Head support can be challenging for floppier newborns.
Our Ratings
Skip Hop Moby Baby Bathtub Smart Sling
Best Sling Tub
The Skip Hop Moby grows with your baby in three distinct stages, starting with a supportive mesh sling for newborns. The sling clips to the tub edges, cradling your infant comfortably.
Once your baby reaches three to six months, you can adjust the sling to create a seated support. This helps them learn to sit up while still being held secure. Eventually, you remove the sling entirely to reveal a spacious tub for toddlers up to 25 pounds.
The interior has a textured non-slip surface, so even without the sling, your little one won’t slide around. We love the integrated hook that lets you hang the whole whale-shaped tub from a shower rod or towel rack to dry.
Pros
- Aesthetic: Adorable whale design kids love.
- Function: Drain hole allows easy emptying.
- Maintenance: Sling is machine washable.
Cons
- Depth: Low sides (11 inches) can lead to splashing.
- Fit: Too wide for most kitchen sinks.
- Snagging: Unused sling hooks can catch little toes.
Our Ratings
Blooming Bath Lotus Baby Bath
Most Comfortable
This is arguably the cutest way to bathe a baby. The Blooming Bath Lotus looks like a giant plush flower that fits inside your sink. It creates an incredibly soft, padded environment that protects your baby from cold, hard surfaces.
The four large petals overlap to fit almost any sink size. It’s essentially a thick, contoured pillow that keeps your baby’s bottom planted and their body cozy. If you want photo-worthy bath times, this is the one.
However, the plush material absorbs a lot of water. You must wring it out thoroughly and throw it in the dryer (on gentle) or hang it up immediately after every use, or it can develop odors.
Pros
- Options: Available in bright colors like yellow, blue, and pink.
- Fit: Adjusts to fit most washbasins or kitchen sinks.
- Storage: Soft and foldable; takes up minimal space.
Cons
- Longevity: Only useful for infants; toddlers will not fit.
- Shape: Petals might lay too flat in very large sinks.
- Drying: Requires thorough drying to prevent mold.
Our Ratings
Puj Tub Foldable Baby Bathtub
Best Tub for Newborns
The Puj Tub is designed specifically for the newborn phase. It is made from a soft, flexible foam that folds into a cradle shape using magnets. You simply place it in the sink, and it forms a secure, warm cup for your baby.
It is ideal for parents recovering from C-sections because it allows you to bathe the baby at waist height in the sink, saving you from bending over a bathtub.
The material is BPA-free, PVC-free, and resistant to mold and mildew. It also features overflow holes that direct excess water into the sink, preventing spills on the floor.
Because it relies on the sink for support, you must check your sink size. It works best in pedestal or standard bathroom sinks measuring roughly 12 to 15 inches wide.
Pros
- Comfort: Soft foam cradles the baby warmly.
- Safety: Non-toxic and mold-resistant materials.
- Convenience: Folds flat for easy hanging storage.
Cons
- Lifespan: Babies outgrow it quickly (around 6 months).
- Magnets: May unclip if the baby wiggles too much.
- Compatibility: Does not fit large kitchen sinks or square basins well.
Our Ratings
Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Baby Bathtub
Best Convertible Bathtub
This Fisher-Price model is a true multitasker. It starts with a soft mesh sling for newborns. As they grow, you remove the sling and use the “baby stopper” insert to keep them from sliding.
Once your baby can sit up, you use the Sit-Me-Up Support seat, which helps unsteady sitters stay upright and safe. Finally, you remove everything to reveal a spacious toddler tub.
It comes with a squeeze bottle and whale scoop for water play. It fits over most double sinks or inside a standard bathtub. The main downside is the size; with all the inserts and the large tub, it takes up significant storage space.
Pros
- Versatility: Four modes cover birth to 25 pounds.
- Capacity: Roomy enough for toddlers to splash.
- Extras: Includes toys and a rinsing bottle.
Cons
- Drainage: The plug is under the seat, making it hard to pull mid-bath.
- Cleaning: The foam head pad can be tricky to keep pristine.
- Storage: Bulky and hard to hide away.
Our Ratings
Munchkin White Hot Inflatable Duck Set
Best Inflatable Baby Tub
This inflatable duck is a favorite for travel and small homes. It deflates into a tiny package you can shove in a diaper bag, but blows up into a full-size padded tub.
The safety disc in the bottom is a brilliant addition. It reads “HOT” in white letters if the water is too warm (over 104°F) and turns blue when the temperature is safe. This simple visual cue prevents accidental burns.
The textured bottom prevents slipping, and the contoured headrest allows your baby to relax. It is best suited for babies who can sit up (6 months+) as the sides are soft and flexible. Once bath time is over, you can use the suction cup to hang it up for air drying.
Pros
- Fun factor: Kids love the giant duck shape.
- Travel-ready: Compresses small for trips.
- Safety: Built-in heat sensor disc.
Cons
- Age range: Not suitable for newborns (6-24 months).
- Setup: You have to inflate it manually.
Our Ratings
Intime Inflatable Baby Bathtub
Best Portable Tub
The Intime Inflatable Tub is essentially a mini swimming pool for your bathroom. Made from durable PVC, it is larger than the Munchkin duck and features a 45-degree angled backrest to support younger babies who cannot sit up perfectly yet.
A standout feature is the side pocket, which is handy for holding soap, a washcloth, or a phone. It includes an air pump, so you don’t have to get dizzy blowing it up yourself.
Because of its deep design and high walls, it is great for keeping active splashers contained. However, the many creases and folds of an inflatable tub mean you have to dry it very carefully to avoid mildew.
Pros
- Accessories: Includes an air pump.
- Storage: Side pocket keeps essentials close.
- Eco-friendly: Made from environmentally friendly PVC.
Cons
- Maintenance: Takes effort to dry completely.
Our Ratings
Baby Bathtubs FAQs
Do I Really Need a Baby Bathtub?
Yes, a baby bathtub is highly recommended. While you can bathe a baby in a sink or adult tub, dedicated baby tubs have non-slip surfaces and contoured support that prevent the baby from slipping underwater, making the process much safer and less stressful.
How Old Should a Baby Be to Use a Bathtub?
You can use a baby bathtub from day one, provided it has a newborn sling or insert. However, many parents stick to sponge baths until the umbilical cord stump falls off (usually 1-3 weeks) to keep the area dry and prevent infection.
How Often Should You Bathe a Newborn?
Newborns do not need daily baths. bathing them 2-3 times a week is sufficient. Too much bathing can dry out their sensitive skin. You can clean their face, neck, and diaper area with a washcloth daily between baths.
What Time Is Too Late to Give a Baby a Bath?
There is no strict cutoff time, but consistency is key. Many parents use a warm bath as part of a bedtime routine to signal sleep. Avoid bathing right after a feeding (to prevent spit-up) or when the baby is overtired and cranky.
Which Bathtub Is Best for Babies?
The best tub depends on your space. For sinks, the Summer Infant Bather or Puj Tub are excellent. For longevity, the First Years Sure Comfort or Fisher-Price 4-in-1 offer the best value as they grow with your child from newborn to toddler.
How Do I Clean a Baby Bathtub?
Rinse the tub thoroughly after every use and let it air dry completely. Once a week, scrub it with a mixture of mild soap and warm water or a vinegar-water solution to kill bacteria. If your tub has a mesh sling or foam pad, wash and dry it frequently to prevent mold.
When Can I Switch to the Big Bathtub?
You can switch to the regular family bathtub once your baby can sit up steady and unassisted, usually around 6 to 9 months. Even then, you should use a non-slip bath mat and never leave them unattended for a second.
