A selection of the best baby bathtubs

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Water plus soap plus a newborn may sound like a slippery, potentially scary experience. But once you get the hang of bath time with your baby, you’ll probably look forward to sudsing up.

You will want to use a sink, bathtub insert, or baby specific bathtub in the first year, but you may want to put your baby in the larger family tub.

It is important to consider the size and age of your baby tub. Some tubs have a reclining hammock or other positioner that can help hold smaller babies. Smaller water basins allow older babies to sit up. Some allow you to grow with your child.

What is the best? What you choose is up to you.

Reviewers give high marks to the following tub and tub inserts.

We considered these factors.

  • Quality: The bath tubs on this list get good marks for quality design and materials. They have been tried and tested by lots of parents and little ones.
  • Safety: The items on this list don’t have any recalls. They also meet the safety standards for infant bathtubs set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Note that we’ve excluded bath seats due to safety concerns and recalls.
  • Price: Parents have different budgets and must-haves, so these baby bathtubs range from budget-friendly to splurge options.
  • Innovative features: We included simple baby bathtubs on our list for minimalists out there, but we also looked for upgraded features that make life easier — from adjustable size to built-in thermometers to special jet attachments.

Safety note on baby bath seats vs. baby bathtubs

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) hasn’t recommended using bath seats for quite some time. Older research found they were associated with higher rates of infant drownings, and that parents were more likely to leave children unattended while in a bath seat.

The bath seats may tip over and cause babies to drown. If you want to avoid tipping incidents, you should always leave your child in a baby bathtub.

Pricing guide

  • $= under $25
  • $$= $25–$40
  • $$$ = $41–$60
  • $$$$= over $60

“The prices were gathered at the time of publishing. They don’t reflect fluctuations due to sales.”

Best baby bathtub for newborns and babies up to 6 months

Blooming Bath Lotus

Price: $$

Key features: If you’re planning to start with sink baths, the Blooming Bath Lotus insert is a plush, flower-shaped cushion that gives your baby a comfortable cradle. Parents rave about its super-soft surface and some say it’s the only way their babies will take a bath tear-free.

If you want to prevent mold and mildew from forming, simply wring out the flower in the sink and run it through the clothes dryer. You can wash it in your washer.

Considerations: Some reviewers note that while this flower is cute, it’s actually a little impractical. It’s too big to fit into most bathroom sinks. Others report that it takes much longer to dry than the manufacturer claims, up to two dryer cycles. And a few more say that the cushion ends up smelling not-so flower-like after a few uses.

Pros

  • It is soft and plush.
  • It is machine washed.
  • It can be adjusted to various sink sizes.

Cons

  • There may be mold and mildew.
  • The bathtub may be too large for some sinks.
  • It takes a long time to dry.
Shop now at Amazon

Best baby bathtub for small sink baths

Puj Tub

Price: $$$

Key features: A more streamlined sink bath insert option is the Puj Tub. Made from soft mold- and mildew-resistant foam, its thin design fits into most standard bathroom sinks.

Cleaning is easy, just scrub with soap and water. Parents say the small footprint of the insert is great for folding into a suitcase while traveling.

Considerations: Some reviewers feel the foam material is too fragile for the high price tag. Others say to be careful when measuring your “standard” sink because it’s best suited for sinks that are 15 inches by 12 inches and around 6 inches deep.

Pros

  • It has a streamlined design.
  • The bathtub is in most sinks.
  • It is easy to clean.

Cons

  • The material is not stable.
  • It may not fit all sink sizes.
Shop now at Amazon

Best mildew- and allergy-free baby bathtub

Angelcare Bath Support

Price: $

Key features: Don’t have space for a separate baby tub? The Angelcare bath support seat is a great option that sits in your regular tub. It can also fit in sinks that are larger than 23 inches by 14 inches.

The support is made from a mesh that dries quickly. This seat is more convenient for babies under 6 months old, when it may be easier to use than a dedicated baby bathtub.

Considerations: Some reviewers say that the mesh material on the seat is harsh for newborns but doesn’t grip them. Others say it’s too small or that their babies started slipping out easily after a couple of months. And a few people report that the mesh material breaks easily.

Pros

  • It is in the tub.
  • The materials are resistant to mold.
  • It dries quickly.

Cons

  • The material may be harmful to the baby.
  • The material can break easily.
  • Babies may grow bigger quickly.
Shop now at Amazon

Best adjustable baby bathtub

The First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe Newborn to Toddler Tub with Sling

Price: $$

Key features: This tub from The First Years transitions with your child from newborn to older baby to toddler — giving you a pretty good bang for your buck. Its ergonomic design includes a machine-washable sling for the youngest infants. Then babies transition to reclining and eventually sitting. Parents give this tub high marks for being economical and long-lasting.

Considerations: While over 80% of people give this tub 5-star reviews on Amazon, a few note that there’s room for improvement. Several say that the drain plug is placed in an inconvenient location. Others wish the included sling were adjustable because they’d prefer to use it longer (the tub can be big for smaller infants). And a few note that the tub ends up leaking over time.

Pros

  • The bathtub is used for newborn to toddler.
  • It has a design that is comfortable.
  • It is economical and long- lasting.

Cons

  • The drain plug is inconvenient to place.
  • The sling is not adjusted.
  • It may leak.
Shop now at Amazon

Best ergonomic baby bathtub

Summer Comfort Height Bath Center with Step Stool

Price: $$

Key features: Whether you have a bad back or just want to be more comfortable while bathing your baby, the Summer Comfort Height tub is a good option. It comes raised on a removable platform that later converts to a step stool for toddlers. And speaking of toddlers, this tub is made for use with newborns, older babies, and toddlers up to 2 years old in mind. Moms of kids close in age say this tub makes bathing little ones while pregnant much more comfortable.

Considerations: A few parents mention that the infant insert has a protruding bump in a not-so comfortable spot for baby boys. Others say this tub is better suited for older babies and toddlers. And several people mention that while it’s neat to have a future step stool option, it’s not worth spending more than $30 for that feature alone.

Pros

  • It is raised on a platform.
  • The platform is turned into a stool.
  • It works for babies up to 2 years old.

Cons

  • It is best for older babies and toddlers.
  • The infant seat has a small bump.
Shop now at Amazon

Best large basin baby bathtub

Primo EuroBath

Price: $$$

Key features: The EuroBath baby tub is the largest basin available and measures a whopping 36 inches by 21 inches by 10 inches. It has two positions — reclining and sitting — to suit children ages newborn to 24 months. The tub features a conveniently placed drain and is made from BPA-free plastic that’s easy to scrub and keep clean.

The tub has handy compartments to hold things like bath toys. Little ones can be helped from slipping underwater with safety supports.

Considerations: While many parents like the large size of this tub, others find it hard to store away and explain that it “barely fits” into a standard sized bathtub. Others feel that the shiny plastic material actually makes for lots of slipping and that the drain hole is small, making the tub slow to empty.

Pros

  • It has reclining and sitting positions.
  • The basin is large enough for children up to 2 years old.
  • There are compartments for toys, toiletries, and other items.

Cons

  • It is too large for small spaces.
  • The material is slippery.
  • It is slow to drain.
Shop now at Bed Bath & Beyond

Best baby bathtub for sitting support

Fisher Price 4-in-1 Sling ’n Seat Tub

Price: $$$

Key features: Want a bunch of different options for your child? The Fisher Price Sling ‘n Seat tub has four different settings. Not only does it feature a sling for newborns and a “baby stopper” for reclining infants, but it also offers a “sit-me-up support” for unstable sitters. This insert can then be removed for older babies and toddlers who sit on their own and need more leg room. The tub has a hook for hanging and can fit into a double kitchen sink.

Considerations: Some parents don’t like that the tub’s plug is positioned underneath where the support seat goes, meaning you have to remove the seat to drain. Others share that the sling rests too high above the water for newborns and younger infants. And a few reviewers say that the toy fish and squirt bottle that are included as a bonus don’t work well.

Pros

  • It has a variety of reclining and sitting positions.
  • It has a piece of furniture that can be removed.
  • There is a hook for hanging.

Cons

  • You need to remove the seat to drain the tub.
  • The sling is high above water.
Shop now at Walmart

Best slip-free baby bathtub

Skip Hop Moby Smart Sling 3-Stage Tub

Price: $$

Key features: This three-stage bathtub includes the newborn sling, reclining option for babies younger than 6 months, and the sitting option for babies up to 25 pounds. The whale shape adds some fun to the bath time experience — if your baby is old enough to appreciate this — and the interior of the tub is coated in a nonslip texture for extra safety. Parents like the mesh sling because they say it’s made from quality materials and feels comfortable for cradling even tiny babies.

Considerations: While some reviewers like the space-saving design, many others say it’s too small for babies older than 6 months. A few people say that the slope of the netting is too steep, making it uncomfortable. Other reviewers share that the plug may break after several uses.

Pros

  • It has a sling and reclining positions.
  • It has a fun design.
  • The coating is non slip.

Cons

  • Older babies may not like the small bathtub.
  • The sling is very steep.
  • The plug may break.
Shop now at Amazon

Best baby bathtub for comfort

Munchkin Sit & Soak Dual-Stage Tub

Price: $$

Key features: This nifty tub is compact, yet offers “optimal water levels” (25 inches by 16.25 inches by 15 inches) to keep baby warm throughout bath time. What’s most unique about this tub is that it allows even newborns to sit in an upright position. It also has a nonslip, padded back rest for added safety from slippage. This tub functions similarly to but is a more economical version of the Shnuggle ($$$).

Considerations: Nearly 85% of reviewers give this tub five stars. Those who don’t give it high marks say that they’re frustrated with its small size and that it doesn’t fit longer infants very well. Other reviewers say that the tub itself is hard to clean and that scum and dirt show too easily.

Pros

  • It is good for small spaces.
  • Newborns can sit upright.
  • It has a good water height for comfort.

Cons

  • The bathtub is too small for older infants.
  • It is hard to clean.
  • It shows dirt and dirt.
Shop now at Amazon

Best foldable baby bathtub

OXO Tot Splash & Store Bathtub

Price: $$$$

Key features: The OXO Tot Splash & Store tub has a clever silicone design that allows it to be folded flat after use. It works best for children ages newborn to 18 months and offers two different sides. The first side is smaller to cradle younger infants. The second is wider for babies ages 9 months and up who sit upright. Parents like the quick action double drain that can be emptied even while baby is in the tub.

Considerations: In general, people like the higher quality materials used to make this product. Some parents note that this tub doesn’t offer much in the way of comfort for smaller babies. Otherwise, the main sticking point with reviewers is the high price, which is nearly double that of most similar baby bathtubs.

Pros

  • It is made of silicone.
  • The bathtub folds up.
  • There are two sides to the story.

Cons

  • It is not the most comfortable for younger babies.
  • The price is higher than most similar bathtubs.
Shop now at OXO

Best luxury baby bathtub

Summer Lil’ Luxuries Whirlpool, Bubbling Spa & Shower

Price: $$$

Key features: You’ve probably heard you can buy a mini jacuzzi for your baby — well, the Summer Lil’ Luxuries tub is that tub. If it sounds excessive, consider that the circulating water jets and vibrations may calm fussy babies. This tub includes a special newborn sling with a bolster that can be used inside the tub itself or in a sink. Outgrown the baby tub? Older babies can continue using the spa and shower unit in an adult tub.

Considerations: Reviews on this product are pretty split. While 77% of customers give it five stars, 6% give this product only one star. Their main gripe? It’s difficult to clean and has many nooks, crannies, and tubes to contend with. Mostly, people say that all the added features aren’t worth the risk of mold and mildew buildup, especially considering the high price.

Pros

  • It has water jets and vibration.
  • It has a sling for a baby.
  • Older babies can use the shower unit.

Cons

  • It is difficult to clean.
  • There are mold and mildew in tubes.
  • It is a higher price than most baby bathtubs.
Shop now at Amazon

Best baby bathtub for travel

Mommy’s Helper Inflatable Bath Tub

Price: $

Key features: If you need a tub while visiting the in-laws or on vacation, consider packing this inflatable one by Mommy’s Helper. It includes a large drain hole for quick cleanup and a saddle horn that fits between baby’s legs for added stability. Not only is this bestselling tub inexpensive, but it also gets good reviews for being a great transition tool for kids who may be close to moving to the family tub.

Considerations: This tub is not for young babies — instead, your little one should be able to sit on their own and being quite stable doing so. A few reviewers say it’s difficult to inflate, and they would have liked some type of pump to be included. And as you might imagine, several people note that this tub isn’t one for the long term. It may get small holes after several uses.

Pros

  • It is inflatable for easy transportation.
  • The price of the baby bathtub is lower than that of the other ones.
  • Older babies and toddlers are helped to transition to the adult tub.

Cons

  • It is not suitable for young babies.
  • It is difficult to inflate.
  • It may get holes over time.
Shop now at Amazon

Best baby bathtub with thermometer

4moms Cleanwater Tub

Price: $$$

Key features: The Cleanwater tub by 4moms includes a built-in digital thermometer (it’s color-coded to boot!) so you can check water temperature with ease. In addition to this helpful safety feature, the tub provides a constant flow of clean water to help with rinsing. The tub includes an infant insert for newborns, but it’s suitable for older babies, too.

Considerations: Critics of this bathtub point out that the thermometer is prone to breaking, making this tub not worth the high price tag. Others note that the “constant flow” of clean water doesn’t come from the tub’s technology — it’s merely from running tap water. And a few parents say the tub isn’t comfortable for their babies.

Pros

  • It has a built-in temperature sensor.
  • It has a constant flow of water.
  • It has an infant insert.

Cons

  • The display is prone to break.
  • The price of the baby bathtub is higher than the price of the actual baby.
  • It may not be comfortable.
Shop now at 4moms

Best baby bathtub for preemies

Puj Flyte Travel Tub

Price: $$

Key features: While this baby bathtub is billed for travel, some moms say it’s good for the smallest babies — preemies. This tub folds away for easy storage and bathing on the go. The streamlined design cradles baby and fits into a variety of sink sizes, from pedestal sinks to standard sinks. When you’re done, the mold- and mildew-resistant material dries in seconds.

Considerations: This compact bathtub is only suitable for babies up to 6 months old — so you’ll need to find a replacement when your baby gets older. This means you may spend the same amount as you would on one of the more expensive options anyway. It’s best in sinks that measure 19 inches (left to right) by 12 inches (front to back) by 4 to 7 inches deep.

Pros

  • It is good for preemies.
  • The bathtub folds away for easy storage.
  • The material is resistant to mold.

Cons

  • It is not suitable for babies older than 6 months old.
  • It only works in sinks of certain sizes.
  • It is expensive because of the short amount of time you can use it.
Shop now a Amazon

Product Price Dimensions Pros Cons
Blooming Bath Lotus $$ 13.25 x 4.25 x 13.25 inches • plush and soft
• machine washable
• adjustable to various sink sizes		 • may grow mold and mildew
• may be too large for some sinks
• takes a long time to dry
Puj Tub $$$ 25.2 x 26.38 x 0.79 inches • streamlined design
• fits most standard sinks
• easy to clean		 • fragile material
• may not fit all sink sizes
Angelcare Bath Support $ 23.03 x 13.19 x 8.86 inches • nests into tub
• mildew-resistant materials
• drains and dries quickly		 • material may be harsh on baby’s skin
• material may break easily
• babies may outgrow quickly
The First Years Sure Comfort Deluxe Newborn to Toddler Tub with Sling $$ 29.75 x 15 x 11.25 inches • transitions from newborn to toddler
• ergonomic design
• economical, long-lasting		 • inconveniently placed drain plug
• nonadjustable sling
• may leak
Summer Comfort Height Bath Center with Step Stool $$ 29 x 9.5 x 17.5 inches • raised on platform for comfort
• platform converts to stool
• works for newborns up to age 2		 • best for older babies and toddlers
• Infant seat has bump that may be uncomfortable.
Primo EuroBath $$$ 36 x 21 x 10 inches • reclining and sitting positions
• Large basin fits babies up to 2 years old.
• has storage compartments 		• too large for small tubs or spaces
• slippery material
• slow to drain
Fisher Price 4-in-1 Sling ’n Seat Tub $$$ 31.5 x 18.11 x 9.06 inches • variety of reclining and sitting positions
• removable insert
• hook for hanging/storage		 • must remove seat to drain tub
• Sling is high above water for newborns.
Skip Hop Moby Smart Sling 3-Stage Tub $$ 19 x 11.6 x 27.5 inches • sling, reclining, and sitting positions
• fun design
• nonslip textured coating to prevent slips		 • may be too small for older babies
• Sling is steep.
• Plug may break easily.
Munchkin Sit & Soak Dual-Stage Tub $$ 25.5 x 16.25 x 15 inches • compact, good for small spaces
• Newborns can sit upright.
• optimal water height for comfort		 • too small for longer, older infants
• hard to clean
• shows dirt/grime easily
OXO Tot Splash & Store Bathtub $$$$ 9.3 x 17.8 x 30.8 inches • silicone construction
• folds flat for storage
• two sides for different ages/stages		 • not the most comfortable for younger babies
• expensive
Summer Lil’ Luxuries Whirlpool, Bubbling Spa & Shower $$$ 18.25 x 9.75 x 29.25 inches • water jets and vibration
• newborn sling with bolster
• spa and shower unit for older babies		 • difficult to clean
• There are mold and mildew in tubes.
• expensive
Mommy’s Helper Inflatable Bath Tub $ 27 x 18 x 6.5 inches • inflatable for easy travel
• affordable
• helps older babies/toddlers transition to adult tub		 • not suitable for newborns and young babies
• difficult to inflate
• may get holes over time
4moms Cleanwater Tub $$$ 31.50 x 16.50 x 8.25 inches • built-in thermometer that’s color-coded
• constant flow of clean water
• infant insert for newborns		 • The thermometer display may be prone to breaking.
• expensive
Puj Flyte Travel Tub $$ 19 x 7.5 inches • good for preemies and newborns
• folds away for easy storage and travel
• mold- and mildew-resistant material		 • not suitable for babies older than 6 months old
• only works in sinks of certain sizes, not bathtubs
• expensive, considering the short amount of time you can use it

There are many baby bathtubs and related products on the market. Some basins are intended to sit inside a larger tub. Others fold or inflate for easy storage. Some have spa-like features.

All of these features can be useful. You want to think about how you will use and maintain the bathtub when assessing it.

Ask yourself.

  • How old is my baby? How long do I plan to use this tub?
  • How tall is my baby and how much does he weigh?
  • Is a seat/nest that fits into a sink or regular bathtub what I want?
  • Is my baby upright or need additional support?
  • Is there enough space to store a tub? Is folding more logical than inflating?
  • Is it possible that I want added features like jets or vibration?
  • Is this tub going to be used with more than one child? Are replacement parts available?
  • How easy is it to clean the tub? Is it possible that I want to deal with mesh hammocks?

The main safety concerns should be considered.

  • There are sharp edges or other protrusions.
  • There was a failure of product from defects.
  • There is a chance that a baby gets caught on parts.
  • slippery surfaces
  • There is a chance for mold to build up.
  • There are issues with the battery.

There is price. Most of the tubs are priced between $10 and $60, with many options costing between $20 and $40. When looking at price, it is important to consider how long you will use the tub. It is possible that those that grow with your child will be more cost effective. A tub that is sturdy and classic may be good for several children.

“You should read the instructions and manufacturer notes that come with the bathtub or bathing product you choose. There are certain guidelines that can help make the most of your baby’s bath experience.”

There are tips for bath time with a baby.

  • If you have a small tub, consider lining it with a clean towel to protect it from slipping. Keep one hand on your baby.
  • You can fill your sink or tub with 2 inches of water. If you are worried about the baby getting cold, you can pour water over their body.
  • Aim for warm water. The goal is around 100F. Lower the water temperature in your home will help prevent smilment. The thermostat should be set to 120F (48.9C).
  • Make sure the bathroom or wherever you bathe the baby is warm to protect them from cold. When it is time to leave, keep a dry towel nearby.
  • “Don’t bathe your baby every day. Three times a week is enough for babies who aren’t mobile. It may dry out delicate skin if you bathe too often after that.”

Never leave your child unattended in a tub or tub insert. Same goes for when you’re filling up the tub — drowning is a possibility anytime your little one has the potential to slip into water unattended, including toilet water.

Other tips can be found.

  • Keep your tub close to you. If you have to leave the room to grab a towel, take your child with you.
  • “Don’t make other young children babysit. Kids don’t have the same attention span or reasoning skills as adults.”
  • Consider taking a course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. If you ever find yourself in a scary situation, you will be thankful for the ability to act quickly.

How long can a newborn go without a bath?

You might be surprised to learn that newborns and young infants only need to be bathed two to three times each week for between 5 and 10 minutes. You may do this in a dedicated baby bathtub or even when you bathe or shower yourself (with help to avoid slipping, of course!). Just be sure that the water is lukewarm and not too hot.

How often should you wash newborn hair?

“You can wash your baby’s hair during bathing sessions. Try to find soaps that are not heavy in smell or have synthetic colors.”

What happens if you don’t bathe a newborn?

Baths are part of basic infant hygiene. It’s important to find a good balance between bathing enough but not bathing too frequently. Not bathing enough may cause odors and irritation in skin folds from bacteria (think spit-up and pee/poop). Bathing too much may irritate or dry out your baby’s delicate skin.

Do you really need a baby bathtub?

You’re not required to have a baby bathtub. You may bathe with your baby but do so only if you have an extra set of hands to help (things can get slippery). That said, you may find it useful to have a safe space — like a baby bathtub — to bathe your child as they grow and become more mobile.

You will only be using a dedicated baby tub or positioner for a short period of time if you try to be too swayed by all the bells and whistles.

You may use whatever you choose with multiple children. A tub that is simple and comfortable is a good choice. Consider your budget and other preferences.

It is important to practice safe habits around bath time and never leave your baby unattended.