Forget about the towel-lined sink you were probably bathed in as a baby. Although that's certainly still an option, there are plenty of portable bathtubs on the market these days that make the job of bathing your baby a whole lot easier--and more fun for both of you.
A baby bathtub provides an appropriately compact place for bathing. It can be placed in a sink, in a regular bathtub, on a counter or kitchen table, or right on the floor. However, if you put the tub anywhere higher than the floor, be sure to keep a hand on your baby at all times. With water around, bathtubs have a way of slipping and sliding.
Many of today's tubs have a removable mesh inner cradle so baby can't slide around too much. Others have a slip-resistant padded lining that allows a baby who can't sit up yet to relax in a semi-upright position.
You'll use a baby bathtub for less time than you may think. At about 6 months old, when your baby can sit up, he or she should no longer be bathed in an infant tub that sits in the sink. Instead, transfer baby to a slightly longer tub.
BATH BASICS
Before we get into the specifics of what's on the market, here are a few bath-time tips. For starters, don't worry about giving your baby a bath right away. Bathing doesn't officially start until the stump of your baby's umbilical cord falls off (about two weeks post-delivery). After that milestone, you can give your baby a bath every day if you like, although two to three times a week is a better idea because daily bathing can dry out your baby's tender skin. In addition to the tub, you'll need a soft towel (preferably hooded to cradle your baby's head), a baby washcloth, and baby body wash that doubles as shampoo.
WHAT'S AVAILABLE
Major brands of baby bathtubs include, in alphabetical order: Evenflo, The First Years, Graco, Leachco, J Mason, Primo, and Safety 1st. You'll see simple tubs that are flat on the bottom; tubs with contoured interiors that help position baby's head above water; tubs with supportive, internal nylon mesh slings that cradle newborns; contoured padded bath pillows filled with polystyrene beads that fit inside a regular tub; and tubs with an insert that can be taken out once baby is able to sit up unassisted and which can then be used until a child is age 2. You'll also find tubs with many of these features that fold in half like a suitcase for more compact storage. Bathtubs range from $13 to $30.
FEATURES TO CONSIDER
Contoured design with slip-resistant padded lining. In lieu of a sling, a contoured design is a must for keeping baby from sliding around too much; baby can still slip and slide, though, so you may want to pop in an additional foam cushion, which is sold separately.
A drain with an attached plug. This can make the tub easier to empty. One that's on the large side allows for quicker post-bath cleanup.
Foldability. Some tubs, like the Safety 1st Fold-Up Tub or The First Years 2-in-1 Fold-Away Tub & Step Stool (it folds into a step stool), collapse in two like a suitcase for easier storage. To make sure the tub won't leak, practice at first with a small amount of water.
An internal mesh sling/cradle. It's cozy and supportive, especially for a newborn. Some models, like the Graco Cuddle Tub, come with an adjustable pillow that attaches to the sling, an added comfort.
A rounded crotch projection.Found on the Evenflo Comfort Tub, an ergonomically contoured model, this feature can keep baby in a safer and more comfortable position.
Shower curtain or towel hook. Some models have a hook on the back to hang the tub up for draining or storage.
A smooth, overhanging rim. This feature makes it much easier to carry a heavy, water-filled tub from the sink to another location for bathing.
Suction cups. Some models have suction cups that attach the unit to the bottom of a regular bathtub.
Temperature monitor. If you're worried about getting your baby's bath water just right, some models, such as The First Years Sure Comfort Newborn-to-Toddler Tub, have drain plugs that change color to alert you if the water is too hot for a baby.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Buy a bathtub made for a baby 6 months or younger that features a contoured design or an internal sling that cradles your baby in the water. Mildew-resistant pads are also a plus, although to prevent mildew and soap-scum buildup, you'll still have to clean the tub after each use. Tubs that convert and grow with your baby until age 2 or so are also a good idea.
Some parents report that collapsible tubs have problems with water leakage from the seams. A neater option is to buy a unit that doesn't fold and store it upright in your shower if you're short on space.
Copyright © 2002-2006 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.
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