All About the Best Baby Bathtubs and Seats

Why pick this one? This baby bathtub can convert from an infant tub to a toddler tub. It comes with a sling, which is recommended for use until your little one is 3 months old. The tub features a deep ergonomic design with a nonslip pad to help support your growing baby and prevent slipping.

The tub has a built-in basin for toys or bath supplies, and it comes with a drain plug for easy emptying. Keep in mind that some Pampers Parents found that the tub took too long to drain.

This tub can be used in most single or double kitchen sinks, or in your bathtub.

Highlights: The mesh sling is machine washable and dryable, and the nonslip pad is mildew resistant.

Details:

Price*: about $19.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: You’ll love the fact that this tub can transition with your little one. It also fits in a variety of places, such as the kitchen sink and bathtub. It’s also very affordable.

Why pick this one? This tub offers four bathing “stages” so that it can grow with your baby. For your 0- to 3-month-old, use the newborn sling. Then for your 3- to 6-month-old, use the infant insert. After that, your little one can graduate to the sit-me-up support for 6- to 9-month-olds. Finally, there is the toddler tub for your 9-month-old baby and older.

This tub features a plug for easy draining and cleaning. It also has a hook for drying and storage. Some Pampers Parents noted that in certain configurations the drain plug is covered, making it inaccessible.

Highlights: Included with the baby bathtub are a squeeze bottle so that you can spray your baby with water for some bath time fun, and a whale scoop for rinsing.

Details:

Price*: about $36.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: You’ll love the four different stage options. And the extras (the spray bottle and water scoop) are just a bonus.

Why pick this one? This mesh-style bathtub works more like an insert — use it in a sink larger than 23 by 14 inches or in your bathtub. Simply lay your baby in the cradle-like mesh, designed to help provide ergonomic support. The material is mildew resistant and dries quickly. You can hang up the tub for convenient storage.

Some Pampers Parents were disappointed that you can’t use this bathtub when your baby is older than 6 months. You’ll have to buy another tub when your baby outgrows this one.

Highlights: The tub is made of lightweight and durable plastic that is designed to keep its shape.

Details:

Price*: about $12.59 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: This product is super easy to use, clean, and dry; and it doesn’t collect mold.

Why pick this one? The Skip Hop Moby is shaped like a whale, of course. It can be adjusted to suit three stages of development: Use it with the sling in the higher position for your newborn (0 to 3 months), in the lower seated position for your infant (3 to 6 months), and without the sling for your baby once she’s more than 6 months old.

The interior features a non-slip texture.

Pampers Parents noted that the sling needs to be washed frequently as it can get smelly if used often.

Highlights: The tub features a drain plug so that emptying the bath water is easier.

Details:

Price*: about $29.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: It’s very easy to convert between the different stages, and it’s a good size tub — not too big or too small.

Why pick this one? The Summer Infant bathtub features an infant insert, which can be removed and used separately in a sink or regular bathtub. When your baby is older you can transition to the baby bathtub, which fits into a regular bathtub. Also included is a raised base, which can make it easier for you to reach your baby during bath time.

The base doubles as a stool for kneeling if you happen to be bathing your baby in the adult bathtub, or as a step stool for when your toddler needs to reach the bathroom sink.

Some Pampers Parents found the tub a bit too bulky and difficult to store, and some were not a fan of the infant insert, preferring a model with a sling instead.

Highlights: The tub features locking tabs between the tub and base to ensure it is secured properly while you bathe your baby.

Details:

Price*: about $24.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: You’ll appreciate the raised base, which will save your back while bathing your little one. And the base can be used separately as a stool, which means this product can be useful for many years to come.

Why pick this one? This bathtub is suitable for the newborn, infant, and toddler stages. It comes with an adjustable bump and contoured back, which are supposed to help your baby stay propped up. The back is made of non-slip foam to help hold your baby in place. The tub fits in most double sinks, but you can also use it in a regular bathtub or on the counter.

The drain plug doubles as a color-changing temperature gauge to help you get an idea of how warm the water is. Keep in mind that some Pampers Parents noted that the color change was difficult to discern.

Highlights: The tub is made without BPA or PVC.

Details:

Price*: about $29.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: You’ll love the adjustable and removable seat support, which makes the tub adaptable to the different stages in your little one's development.

Why pick this one? This bathtub from Primo offers two different positions for your baby. It allows your baby to almost fully recline when he’s between 0 and 6 months old, and allows him to sit up when he’s between 6 and 24 months.

This is one of the largest bathtubs on our list, but don’t worry about draining it because it has a drain plug. Still, some Pampers Parents did complain that the tub was too bulky and cumbersome.

The bathtub is made from polypropylene and is easy to clean by wiping down with soap and water. There are also compartments for storing shampoo, soap, and sponges.

Highlights: The bathtub is free of BPA, lead, and phthalates. An optional bath stand is sold separately.

Details:

Price*: about $24.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: You’ll love the fact that this tub will work for your baby through toddlerhood, so you don’t have to purchase a new tub for the different stages of his development.

Why pick this one? This Summer Infant bathtub features a waterfall feature as part of the infant bolster that circulates water around your baby’s back, keeping her warm and cleaning her at the same time. As your baby grows, the bolster can be removed. There’s a drain hole for easier emptying.

This bathtub’s waterfall feature requires the use of two C batteries, which last for about six hours. Some Pamper Parents noted that the waterfall stopped working after a while, and that the bolster can get moldy.

Highlights: An oversized washcloth, a rinse cup, and a removable tray are also included.

Details:

Price*: about $39.92 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: You’ll like the waterfall feature, which helps keep your baby warm, and also makes washing her hair a little easier.

Compact Baby Bathtubs and Seats

If you’re tight on space, and need a baby bath seat that is more compact, or even foldable, check out these options that Pampers Parents chose as their favorites:

Why pick this one? The Blooming Bath Lotus is a soft, plush flower, made of polyester and polyurethane foam, in which you can place your baby during bath time. It doesn't hold water by itself but works well in most sinks — you add the desired amount of water to the sink first and then the lotus — so you don’t have to bend over to bathe your little one in a bathtub. It is worth noting that this product has a relatively short lifespan, as it only works for babies up to 6 months.

After bath time, simply wring out the lotus bathtub and let it air-dry, or place it in the dryer for 10 to 15 minutes. It’s machine washable on a gentle wash cycle. Some Pampers Parents noted that the tub is difficult to wash and dry, and that it needs to be washed regularly; otherwise it can start to smell.

Highlights: The Bath Lotus is free of BPA, phthalates, latex, lead, and flame retardants.

Details:

Price*: about $39.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: The Bath Lotus is easy to use in your sink, and you don’t have to worry about your baby sliding down, or getting water in her ears.

Why pick this one? If you’re looking for the ultimate in compact bathtubs, look no further. The Puj Tub can be stored completely flat until you fold it together to create a cradle-like bathtub for your baby. Keep in mind that some Pampers Parents noted that the tub didn’t always stay folded.

You can use the Puj Tub in most bathroom sinks, so you can avoid bending over to bathe your little one in your bathtub. After bath time, simply rinse the tub and hang it flat to dry.

Highlights: It’s made out of PVC- and BPA-free foam material that is also mold and mildew resistant.

Details:

Price*: about $43.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: You’ll love that it’s easy to use, clean, and store.

Why pick this one? This compact baby tub has smooth curves and a rolled top so there are no sharp edges for your baby. The tub is lightweight enough to pick up and empty easily as it holds just two liters of water. Filled with water, the tub weighs about 7.3 pounds in total.

Some Pampers Parents found their babies outgrew the tub rather quickly, especially if the baby is longer than average.

Highlights: The tub features a foam backrest, which doubles as an insulator to keep the bath water warmer for longer.

Details:

Price*: about $62.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents review: You’ll love the bum bump, which will keep your baby secure. Also, the tub is compact enough to fit most kitchen sinks.

Inflatable Baby Bathtubs

These inflatable bathtubs are useful for when you’re transitioning your baby to your regular bathtub. All three of these products are suitable for 6-month-olds to 2-year-olds. Just remember to check with your baby’s healthcare provider before using one of these inflatable bathtubs.

Pampers Parents chose these fun inflatable bathtubs as their favorites:

Why pick this one? Not only is this giant rubber ducky bathtub adorable, it’s very practical. Your baby can lean up against the duck for support. It also features a textured non-slip surface to keep your baby secure. The tub is great for travel, and can easily be stored in small spaces when deflated. A suction cup is included so you can hang the tub to air-dry.

Some Pampers Parents noted that the duck was a bit difficult to inflate, but a pump helped make the process easier. It will, however, save you time to keep it inflated, but count on having the room to store it.

Highlights: This bathtub features a temperature-sensitive dot that turns white if the bath water is too hot. The dot turns blue when the temperature is just right.

Details:

Price*: about $11.89 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents tip: Your baby will love this tub, and you won’t have any problems convincing him to take a bath.

Why pick this one? The cute frog print on this air-cushioned bathtub can make bath time even more fun for your baby or toddler. But what sets this inflatable tub apart from the others is that it features a saddle horn, which helps keep your baby in place so he doesn’t slide down in the tub. When your toddler reaches the age where the saddle is no longer needed, simply don’t inflate it.

Some Pampers Parents noted that the bottom could use more padding, but they remedied it by placing a soft towel under the tub.

Highlights: For easy water release, there’s even a drain plug in the bottom of the tub.

Details:

Price*: about $11.45 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents tip: It’s very easy to inflate and deflate, and the saddle can be very helpful in supporting your baby.

Why pick this one? The Disney Princess Inflatable Safety Bathtub features an air-cushioned, nonslip textured surface. There’s a water temperature display to help you choose a safe temperature for your little one. To make bath time easier, there are pockets for storing soap and shampoo, too.

You can take the tub with you when you travel with your baby. It easily deflates for storage, and can be re-inflated easily as well. Just rinse off the tub when your baby is done with her bath, and use the attached hook to hang and air-dry it.

Highlights: This bathtub features most of the popular Disney princesses.

Details:

Price*: about $15.49 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents tip: It’s just the right size for bathing an older baby, and it’s easy to travel with.

What Features to Consider When Choosing a Baby Bathtub or Seat

These are some of the features that are available for your baby’s bathtub or seat. Take a look so that you know what qualities are most important for you when making your purchasing decision:

• Child Age and Weight

• Safety

• Shape

• Size

• Sling

• Foam Padding

• Crotch Post

• Bath Stands

• Drain Plug

• Temperature Indicator

• Hook for Drying and Storage

• Smooth, Rounded Rim

• Nonskid Surface

Child Age and Weight

Some bathtubs are recommended for your baby only until she reaches 6 months of age, whereas convertible tubs can last until about 2 years of age. These models usually come with an infant insert or sling, which can be removed when it’s no longer needed.

Under most of our bathtub reviews you’ll find a table with information on the product’s recommended baby age and/or weight. Use these as guidelines only. Since every child is different, your baby may outgrow the tub sooner, or use it longer than expected. If in doubt, check the manufacturer’s instructions or ask your baby’s healthcare provider.

Safety

As you choose a baby bathtub, you may want to look for one that cradles your baby, and provides plenty of back support. This is especially useful when bathing your newborn or young infant, who won’t have the upper body strength to hold himself up on his own yet.

Keep in mind that you must always stay with your baby during bath time. Don’t ever leave him unattended. If you forgot to grab the shampoo, for example, take your baby out of the bath and carry him with you.

Shape

With your 6-month-old or younger infant, who is still developing her head and neck control, you may want to look for a bath seat or tub that has a contoured design, as this can help your baby sit more upright.

Size

To select the right size, start by figuring out where you’d like to bathe your baby. Do you prefer the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or the bathtub in your bathroom? Once you’ve thought it through, measure that space so you can check that the baby bathtub or seat you’re considering will fit.

Sling

The tub may come with an infant insert or sling that cradles your baby usually up until 6 months of age or until she outgrows it. This will keep her secure when you’re bathing her. Some models come with a removable sling, so you can still bathe your baby in the tub once she outgrows the sling.

Foam Padding

A mildew-resistant foam lining might be a feature you’d like, as it can cradle your baby’s head.

Crotch Post

This feature can help keep your infant from slipping down into the bath water. Nothing replaces your watchful eye, though, so even if your bath seat has one of these, never leave her unattended.

Bath Stands

You might also see tubs that come with stands so you can bathe your baby without straining your back. This style isn’t necessarily the safest option, so you may prefer to choose a tub that fits in a sink, or place it in the bathtub or on the floor and kneel as you bathe your little one.

Drain Plug

This can make the tub easier to empty as you don’t have to lift and tip a heavy tub full of water to empty it.

Temperature Indicator

Some tubs have a drain plug that also works as a temperature indicator. Some tubs come with a strip that changes color to show when the water temperature is just right. Even if the tub you choose has one of these indicators, it’s always safest to test the water temperature with your forearm as the skin on your wrist is more sensitive than your hand. The water should feel comfortably warm.

Hook for Drying and Storage

Some baby bathtubs have a hook on the back so that you can hang the tub to dry, or to store it more easily.

Smooth, Rounded Rim

It’s much easier to carry a tub when the edges are smooth and rounded, instead of sharp. Keep in mind that it’s not safe to carry the tub with your baby in it. A rounded rim also helps ensure your baby won’t get scraped as you put her in or take her out.

Nonskid Surface

Some tubs feature a nonskid surface on the bottom so that the tub doesn’t slide around when it’s placed in your bathtub. But even if your chosen tub does include this feature, it’s a good idea to use a nonskid rubber mat under the baby bathtub to ensure there is no slippage.

Some models may also include a nonslip surface on the inside of the tub to keep your baby from sliding forward during bath time.

Choosing a baby bathtub or seat won’t be the hardest decision you’ll ever make — and that’s great. Simply think about what features you and your baby will love, which one looks nice, and which one fits in the space where you’ll likely be bathing your little one before making your final decision.

Before buying a product, always check that it’s approved and hasn’t been recalled on sites like the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

*Prices are correct at the time of writing.

How We Got These Results

We surveyed thousands of parents in the Pampers Community and asked them to choose the products they love the most, and to share their views on specific products and product categories. Based on the survey responses, we have taken the top product picks and added our own research to create this article. The aim is to help you choose the right product for you and your family. We might receive commissions on purchases made from the links in this article, but the products featured are the Pampers Community’s top choices.