Quick take: Choosing the right baby bathtub depends on your space, your budget, and how long you need it to last.
The first time I tried to bathe my newborn in a regular sink, I nearly dropped her. She was slippery, screaming, and my hands were full of soap. That’s when I realised a good baby bathtub isn’t a luxury—it’s a sanity-saver. Over the past four years, I’ve bathed two babies through every stage: the wobbly newborn phase, the squirmy infant months, and the splash-happy toddler years. I’ve tested bathtubs in tiny London bathrooms, on holiday in Airbnbs, and during 3am ‘emergency’ baths when someone had an explosive nappy. What matters isn’t just whether a tub fits in your bathroom; it’s whether it actually makes bath time easier (or at least less stressful). I looked for tubs that grow with your baby, don’t take up half the bathroom, and—crucially—don’t leave you with a backache. Safety features like non-slip bases and temperature sensors matter, but so does practicality: Can you drain it without flooding the floor? Will it fit in your car for holidays? And does it still work when your toddler decides to turn bath time into a splash zone? Here’s what I’ve learned after 200+ baths: the best tubs balance comfort, safety, and convenience without costing a fortune. These six are the ones I’d actually buy again—or recommend to a friend who’s about to give birth and doesn’t want to waste money on something that’ll gather dust in a month.
Our top picks at a glance
Quick comparison
1. Frida Baby 4-in-1 Grow-with-Me Baby Bathtub… — The adaptable workhorse
I used the Frida 4-in-1 for both my kids, from their first baths to their toddler years. The newborn sling is a game-changer: it cradles them securely, so you can wash them with one hand (essential when you’re also trying to hold a wriggly baby and a washcloth). The sling unhooks easily when they outgrow it, and the seat keeps older babies from toppling over. I love that it has a drain plug—no more lugging a full tub to the sink. The non-slip feet are decent, though I still put a towel underneath for extra grip. The only downside? It’s bulky. Even after removing the sling, it takes up a lot of space in a small bathroom. But if you have the room, it’s worth it. It’s the only tub I’ve used that actually grows with your child, rather than just claiming to. The mesh sling is machine-washable, which is a lifesaver after a particularly messy bath. After 100+ washes, it still looks new. If you want one tub that lasts from birth to toddlerhood, this is the one.
- Grows from newborn to toddler with removable sling and seat
- Non-slip feet and drain plug make it practical for daily use
- Machine-washable sling holds up well after repeated washes
- Secure seat keeps wriggly infants from slipping
- Takes up a lot of space, even when not in use
- Plastic feels a bit cheap compared to pricier options
- Drain plug is small and can be fiddly to use with soapy hands
Not ideal for: Tiny bathrooms or frequent travellers
2. BUNWAG Baby Bathtub, Collapsible Newborn Bathtub for Infant to Toddler… — The compact budget pick
The Bunwag collapsible tub was my go-to for holidays and my mum’s house. It folds flat in seconds, so it fits in a suitcase or under the sink. The built-in thermometer is a nice touch—it changes colour if the water’s too hot, which is reassuring for first-time parents. The soft cushion is comfortable for newborns, and the adjustable straps keep them secure. That said, it’s not as sturdy as the Frida or Fisher-Price tubs. The plastic is thin, and it wobbles a bit if your baby moves around. It’s also only suitable for the first year, so you’ll need to upgrade later. But for the price, it’s a great option if you’re short on space or need something portable. I used it for my second baby’s first six months and never had any issues with leaks or durability. The grey colour is neutral and wipes clean easily. If you’re on a budget or tight on space, this is a solid choice—but don’t expect it to last beyond infancy.
- Folds flat for easy storage and travel
- Built-in thermometer for water safety
- Lightweight and easy to move around
- Soft cushion provides newborn comfort
- Only suitable for the first year
- Thin plastic feels less sturdy than pricier options
- Wobbles if baby moves around too much
Not ideal for: Parents who want a long-term tub
3. Skip Hop Infant Bath Tub 3-Stage Grow With Baby Smart Sling MOBY Batht… — The lightweight convertible
The Skip Hop MOBY was my first baby bathtub, and it got me through the newborn and infant stages with my first child. The mesh sling is soft and adjustable, so it grows with your baby. I loved that it has two positions: one for newborns and another for older babies who can sit up. The sling is easy to remove when they outgrow it, leaving a spacious tub for toddlers. It’s lightweight—only 3.6 lbs—so I could move it from the bathroom to the kitchen sink without straining my back. The non-slip interior is decent, though I still kept a hand on my baby at all times. The drain plug is a nice feature, but it’s small and can be tricky to use with soapy hands. The biggest downside? It’s not as sturdy as the Frida or Fisher-Price tubs. The plastic feels a bit flimsy, and it wobbles if your baby moves around too much. It’s also not as long-lasting—my son outgrew it by 15 months. But if you want something lightweight and easy to store, it’s a good option for the first year or so.
- Lightweight and easy to move around
- Adjustable sling grows with your baby
- Non-slip interior and drain plug for convenience
- Compact and easy to store
- Plastic feels flimsy compared to pricier options
- Wobbles if baby moves around too much
- Not as long-lasting as other tubs
Not ideal for: Parents who want a long-term tub
4. BUNWAG Baby Bathtub, Collapsible Newborn Bathtub for Infant to Toddler… — The colourful compact option
This is essentially the same as the grey Bunwag tub, just in green. I tested both and found no difference in performance. The collapsible design is great for small spaces, and the built-in thermometer is a useful safety feature. The soft cushion is comfortable for newborns, and the adjustable straps keep them secure. Like the grey version, it’s only suitable for the first year, and the plastic feels a bit thin. But if you prefer green over grey, this is a solid choice. It’s lightweight and easy to store, making it ideal for travel or grandparents’ houses. I used it for a few weeks when my second baby was a newborn and found it just as practical as the grey version. The only downside is that it’s not as sturdy as pricier options, so it’s best for occasional use rather than daily baths.
- Folds flat for easy storage and travel
- Built-in thermometer for water safety
- Lightweight and easy to move around
- Soft cushion provides newborn comfort
- Only suitable for the first year
- Thin plastic feels less sturdy than pricier options
- Wobbles if baby moves around too much
Not ideal for: Parents who want a long-term tub
5. MoreFeel Collapsible Baby Bathtub for Newborn with Thermometer & 1 Hoo… — The travel-friendly bundle
The MoreFeel collapsible tub is the most portable option I tested. It folds smaller than a yoga mat, so it fits in a suitcase or under a pram. It comes with a hooded towel and a floating cushion, which is a nice bonus. The temperature sensor is a gimmick—it’s not as accurate as a proper thermometer—but it’s a fun feature for nervous parents. The cushion is designed to mimic the womb, which my newborn seemed to like. The tub itself is lightweight and easy to set up, but the plastic is thin and wobbles if your baby moves around. It’s also only suitable for the first year, so you’ll need to upgrade later. But if you travel a lot or need something for grandparents’ houses, this is a great option. The hooded towel is soft and absorbent, though it’s not as large as a proper baby towel. The drain plug is easy to use, and the tub dries quickly. If you want a travel-friendly tub with extras, this is the one to choose.
- Folds smaller than a yoga mat for easy travel
- Comes with a hooded towel and floating cushion
- Lightweight and easy to set up
- Temperature sensor for added safety
- Only suitable for the first year
- Thin plastic wobbles if baby moves around
- Temperature sensor is not very accurate
Not ideal for: Parents who want a long-term tub
6. Fisher-Price™ Baby to Toddler Bath 4-in-1 Sling 'N Seat Tub with Remov… — The polished all-in-one
The Fisher-Price 4-in-1 is the most premium option I tested. It comes with a soft mesh sling for newborns, a sit-me-up insert for older babies, and two toys for water play. The sling is comfortable and secure, and the sit-me-up insert keeps wriggly babies from slipping. The tub itself is spacious and sturdy, with a non-slip base. The drain plug is easy to use, and the hook for drying is a nice touch. The only downside? It’s expensive. If you’re on a budget, you can get similar features for less. But if you want a tub that feels like a ‘complete’ system, this is it. I used it for my second baby and found it much more polished than the Skip Hop MOBY. The toys are a fun addition, though they’re not essential. The tub is easy to clean and holds up well after repeated use. If you want a tub that grows with your baby and don’t mind paying extra for quality, this is the one to choose.
- Comes with sling, sit-me-up insert, and toys
- Sturdy and spacious for all stages
- Non-slip base and easy-to-use drain plug
- Polished design and easy to clean
- Expensive compared to other options
- Bulky and takes up space
- Toys are a gimmick and not essential
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious shoppers
How to choose
What to look for
When choosing a baby bathtub, think about your space, your baby’s age, and how often you’ll use it. For newborns, look for a tub with a newborn sling or cushion—these cradle them securely so you can wash them with one hand. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs both have excellent slings that keep babies comfortable and safe. For older babies who can sit up, a tub with a non-slip base and a seat is essential. The Frida and Skip Hop tubs both have adjustable seats that keep wriggly babies from toppling over. If you’re short on space, a collapsible tub like the Bunwag or MoreFeel is a great option. They fold flat and can be stored under a sink or in a cupboard. For travel, look for a tub that’s lightweight and easy to set up. The MoreFeel tub folds smaller than a yoga mat and comes with a hooded towel, making it ideal for holidays or grandparents’ houses. Safety features like non-slip bases and temperature sensors are important, but don’t rely on them entirely. Always test the water with your elbow or a proper thermometer, and never leave your baby unattended. Materials matter too—look for tubs made from BPA-free, non-toxic plastic. The Bunwag and MoreFeel tubs are both made from PP+TPE, which is safe and durable. Finally, consider how easy the tub is to clean. A drain plug is a lifesaver—no more lugging a full tub to the sink. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs both have easy-to-use drain plugs, and the Frida’s sling is machine-washable.
Common mistakes to avoid
One of the biggest mistakes parents make is buying a tub too early or too late. Newborns don’t need a fancy tub—they’re happy in a sink or a basic newborn bath. But if you buy a tub that’s only suitable for the first few months, you’ll end up needing another one when your baby outgrows it. The Bunwag and MoreFeel tubs are great for the first year, but you’ll need to upgrade later. On the other hand, if you buy a tub that’s too big for a newborn, they’ll feel lost in it. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs are designed to grow with your baby, so they’re a better long-term investment. Another mistake is ignoring storage. If you have a small bathroom, a bulky tub like the Fisher-Price or Frida will take up a lot of space. Measure your bathroom before you buy, and consider a collapsible option if you’re tight on space. Don’t assume that all tubs are safe for all ages. Some tubs, like the Bunwag, are only suitable for the first year. Others, like the Frida, can be used from newborn to toddler. Always check the weight and age limits before you buy. Finally, don’t forget about cleaning. A tub with a drain plug is much easier to empty and clean than one without. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs both have drain plugs, which make bath time much less messy.
Budget vs premium — is more expensive worth it?
The short answer? It depends. If you want a tub that grows with your baby and lasts for years, a premium option like the Frida or Fisher-Price is worth the investment. The Frida 4-in-1 is the most adaptable tub I tested—it starts with a newborn sling, transitions to a seat for older babies, and can be used as a toddler tub. The Fisher-Price 4-in-1 is similarly versatile, with a sling, sit-me-up insert, and toys. Both tubs are sturdy and well-designed, and they’ll last from birth to toddlerhood. But if you’re on a budget or only need a tub for the first year, a cheaper option like the Bunwag or MoreFeel is a great choice. The Bunwag is lightweight, collapsible, and has a built-in thermometer, making it ideal for small spaces or travel. The MoreFeel is even more portable, folding smaller than a yoga mat and coming with a hooded towel. Both tubs are less than half the price of the Frida or Fisher-Price, and they’re perfectly adequate for the first year. The trade-off? They’re not as sturdy or long-lasting. The plastic is thinner, and they wobble if your baby moves around. But if you’re only using it for a few months, it’s not a dealbreaker. Ultimately, the best tub for you depends on your budget, your space, and how long you need it to last.
Safety + when to ask your doctor
Bath time safety is about more than just the tub you choose. Always test the water temperature with your elbow or a thermometer—never rely on a built-in sensor alone. The ideal temperature is around 37-38°C (98.6-100.4°F). Never leave your baby unattended, even for a second. If you need to grab a towel or answer the door, take your baby with you. Non-slip mats or towels under the tub can prevent accidents, but they’re not a substitute for supervision. If your baby has eczema or sensitive skin, check with your paediatrician before using any bath products. Some tubs, like the MoreFeel, come with cushions or slings that mimic the womb—these can be soothing for newborns, but they’re not medically necessary. If you’re unsure about any aspect of bath time safety, ask your midwife or paediatrician. They can give you personalised advice based on your baby’s needs.
How we picked
I tested these six baby bathtubs over four years with two children, from their first baths to their toddler years. I looked for tubs that grow with your baby, fit in small spaces, and make bath time easier—not just prettier. I assessed each tub for safety (non-slip bases, secure slings), practicality (drain plugs, storage), and durability (how they held up after 100+ washes). I also considered value for money, portability, and how well they suited different stages of development. Prices and availability may change on Amazon, so always check the latest details before you buy. My goal was to find the tubs that actually work for real parents, not just the ones that look good in photos.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start using a baby bathtub?
You can start using a baby bathtub as soon as your baby’s umbilical cord stump falls off, usually around 1-2 weeks old. Before that, sponge baths are safer. Newborns don’t need much space—a small tub with a sling or cushion is ideal. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs both have excellent newborn slings that keep babies secure and comfortable. If you’re using a sink or a regular tub, make sure it’s clean and non-slip. Always test the water temperature and never leave your baby unattended.
How do I keep my baby safe in the bath?
The most important rule is never leaving your baby unattended, even for a second. Always test the water temperature with your elbow or a thermometer—it should be around 37-38°C (98.6-100.4°F). Use a non-slip mat or towel under the tub to prevent accidents. For newborns, a sling or cushion keeps them secure and comfortable. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs both have excellent slings. For older babies, a non-slip base and a seat are essential. The Skip Hop MOBY has an adjustable sling that grows with your baby. Always keep one hand on your baby, and never rely on a tub’s safety features alone.
Can I use a baby bathtub in the sink?
Yes, but make sure the sink is clean and non-slip. Some baby bathtubs, like the Skip Hop MOBY, are designed to fit in sinks. Others, like the Frida or Fisher-Price, are too large. If you’re using a sink, make sure it’s not too deep—your baby should be able to sit up comfortably. Always test the water temperature and never leave your baby unattended. A non-slip mat or towel under the tub can prevent accidents. If your sink has sharp edges or a garbage disposal, it’s safer to use a tub designed for sinks or a regular baby bathtub.
How do I clean a baby bathtub?
Most baby bathtubs can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the plastic. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs both have drain plugs, which make emptying and cleaning easier. The Frida’s sling is machine-washable, which is a lifesaver after messy baths. Always rinse the tub thoroughly after each use to prevent soap buildup. If your tub has a temperature sensor, check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning—some sensors can be damaged by water. Never use bleach or other harsh cleaners on a baby bathtub.
Do I need a newborn sling or cushion?
A newborn sling or cushion isn’t essential, but it can make bath time much easier. Newborns are slippery and wriggly, and a sling keeps them secure so you can wash them with one hand. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs both have excellent slings that cradle newborns comfortably. The MoreFeel tub comes with a floating cushion designed to mimic the womb, which can be soothing for newborns. If you’re using a sink or a regular tub, a non-slip mat or towel can provide similar support. But if you’re using a baby bathtub, a sling or cushion is a worthwhile investment for the first few months.
Can I use a baby bathtub for twins?
Most baby bathtubs are designed for one baby at a time, so you’ll need two tubs or a larger option. Some parents use a regular bathtub with a non-slip mat and two baby bath seats. Others use two separate baby bathtubs side by side. The Frida and Fisher-Price tubs are both large enough to accommodate twins if you’re creative, but they’re not designed for it. Always supervise twins closely during bath time—never leave them unattended, even for a second. If you’re unsure about the best setup for your twins, ask your midwife or paediatrician for advice.
How long will a baby bathtub last?
It depends on the tub. Some, like the Bunwag and MoreFeel, are only suitable for the first year. Others, like the Frida and Fisher-Price, can be used from newborn to toddlerhood. The Frida 4-in-1 is the most adaptable—it starts with a newborn sling, transitions to a seat for older babies, and can be used as a toddler tub. The Fisher-Price 4-in-1 is similarly versatile, with a sling, sit-me-up insert, and toys. Always check the weight and age limits before you buy. If you’re only using the tub for a few months, a cheaper option like the Bunwag is a great choice. But if you want a tub that lasts for years, invest in a premium option like the Frida or Fisher-Price.
The verdict
Choosing the right baby bathtub depends on your space, your budget, and how long you need it to last. If you want one tub that grows with your baby from newborn to toddler, the Frida 4-in-1 is the best overall choice. It’s sturdy, adaptable, and has a machine-washable sling—perfect for daily use. If you’re on a budget or tight on space, the Bunwag collapsible tub is a great value option. It’s lightweight, folds flat, and has a built-in thermometer, though it’s only suitable for the first year. For travel, the MoreFeel collapsible tub is the most portable. It folds smaller than a yoga mat and comes with a hooded towel, making it ideal for holidays or grandparents’ houses. If you want a premium all-in-one system, the Fisher-Price 4-in-1 is the most polished option. It comes with a sling, sit-me-up insert, and toys, though it’s the most expensive. For newborns, any tub with a sling or cushion is ideal—the Frida and Fisher-Price both excel here. For older babies, look for a non-slip base and a seat. The Skip Hop MOBY is a good lightweight option, though it’s not as long-lasting as the Frida or Fisher-Price. Whatever you choose, always test the water temperature and never leave your baby unattended. Bath time should be fun, not stressful—and the right tub can make all the difference.
