Choosing Safe Baby Products: Bathtubs

Baby bathtubs give parents a safe way to wash a wet, slippery baby. The angle of the tub helps free a parent’s hands for washing.

Things to keep in mind when choosing an infant bathtub:

• A tub made of thick plastic will stay firm in the center, even under the weight of the water.
• Inflatable tubs and bath buckets are dangerous.
• Bath rings and bath seats can tip over and should be avoided.
• The bathtub should have slip-resistant backing to keep it from moving.
• Bathtubs with foam cushions are dangerous because your baby could tear off pieces and swallow them.
• Don’t choose a tub with rough edges, which can scratch your baby.
• An infant-to-toddler tub will last longer as it can be adjusted when your baby grows.
• Some bathtubs have plastic slots or indentations that can hold soap, shampoo, and other cleaning supplies.
• A plug at the bottom of the tub makes draining the water easier.

SAFETY NOTES:

• Only adults or other experienced caregivers should give babies baths. Baths can be dangerous for babies, because babies can drown in as little as an inch of water.
• Gather all of your baby’s bathing supplies ahead of time, including shampoo, soap, washcloth, towel, clean clothes, and a clean diaper/wipes.
• Always keep one hand on your baby while he or she is in water.
• Always touch the water to check the temperature before putting your baby in the bathtub. Water that is too hot can burn babies.
• Always take your baby with you if you have to answer the door or the phone or if you’re needed elsewhere in the house.
• Always empty the bathtub and turn it upside down when it is not being used.