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Bath time can feel like a chore or a mini adventure — and the difference often comes down to toys. A few bright boats, squirters, or a light-up projector can turn a routine wash into an imaginative voyage, where your little one becomes captain, pirate, or scientist. Toys keep hands busy so parents can speed through shampoo without protest, and they also build finger strength, hand-eye coordination, and early counting skills. Think of bath toys as the secret sauce that turns soap into playtime.
Choosing bath toys isn't just about cute designs; safety matters more than you might expect. From non-toxic plastics to designs that don’t trap water, a few smart checks keep bath time fun and safe. Below are the key safety points to remember before you add a toy to the tub.
Always check labels for phrases like "BPA-free" or "phthalate-free." Many reputable brands — including those you'll see from stores across the UK — now use safer plastics. If a toy claims to be made of silicone or natural rubber, that can be a good sign, too. When in doubt, choose simple solid pieces rather than toys with unknown coatings.
Holes and tiny crevices invite mold and mildew, which nobody wants around a baby. Look for toys that open fully for drying or are stated to be mold-resistant. Squeeze-free squirters or sealed figures are worth the extra pound if they save you scrubbing later.
Toys should be large enough that they can’t fit fully into a child’s mouth. For infants and young toddlers, avoid pieces smaller than about 2 inches across unless designed specifically as teething toys. If a toy has detachable small parts, steer clear until your child is older and has reliable hand control.
There’s a whole universe of bath toys — each with its own charm. Understanding the options helps you pick toys that match your child’s development stage and interests. Here are the most popular types and what they bring to the tub.
Boats are classic. They float, they race, and they often come in sets with little characters that encourage role-play. Sets like Matchstick Monkey Bathtime Boat Sets let children stage tiny adventures and build storytelling skills while splashing.
Squirters are instant giggle machines. From simple rubber sharks to whale-shaped squirters, these toys let kids practice aim, cause-and-effect, and gentle hand strength. A set that includes multiple squirters can make water play social when siblings join in.
Light-up toys and projectors transform a bath into a night-sky show. Items like the In The Night Garden Iggle Piggle's Lightshow Bath-time Boat or submarine projectors create a calming, sensory-rich environment — great for winding down before bed.
Floating alphabet and number sets turn bubbles into a classroom. Kids can spell simple words or learn to count as they stick foam letters to the tub wall. These toys blend learning and play without ever feeling like homework.
If you’re wondering where to shop, the UK has a mix of specialist toy retailers and big-name stores stocking reliable, safe bath toys. Below are stores known for quality selections, including Ebebek — a source of popular licensed and developmental toys — and other well-known UK sellers.
Ebebek is popular for family-focused items and carries an array of bath toys suited for babies and toddlers. Look out for licensed favourites like the In The Night Garden Iggle Piggle's Lightshow Bath-time Boat, which adds a cozy glow to evening baths. Ebebek also lists practical options such as the BB Junior Splash N Play Submarine Projector and Matchstick Monkey Bathtime Wobblers, ideal for hands-on splash play.
The Entertainer is a high-street favourite that stocks a wide range of bath toys across price points. From themed sets to learning foam letters and branded characters like Baby Shark, you’ll find toys that match whatever mood your child is in — and bundles that stretch your budget.
Argos is a go-to for fast, affordable options and frequent multi-buy deals. Their shelves often include practical brands like Vital Baby and Edushape, whose simple, durable designs are made for daily use. Argos is especially handy when you want a quick replacement or an inexpensive backup toy.
John Lewis leans toward higher-end and designer baby toys with an emphasis on safety and durability. If you want well-made silicone bath toys or educational sets that look good on the bathroom shelf, this is a top choice. John Lewis also tends to stock trusted brands with clear safety certifications.
Boots carries a selection focused on baby essentials, so you’ll find practical bath sets, gentle-clean materials, and trusted brands for newborns. Look here for starter kits and hypoallergenic options that suit sensitive skin and newborn bath routines.
Smyths offers a broad range, from basic bath books to splashy electronic projectors and licensed character sets. If you’re shopping for multiple gifts or siblings, Smyths often has a wide enough selection to mix and match play styles and characters.
Amazon’s breadth is hard to beat. You can search for specific models like the Matchstick Monkey Bathtime Boat Set or Vital Baby Splash Alphabet & Numbers Sets and compare reviews instantly. Amazon is useful when you want niche items or hard-to-find licensed toys like Baby Shark sets in three-piece packs.
Mamas & Papas focuses on baby and nursery, with tasteful, functional bath toys designed for early development. Their range includes soft silicone options and teething-friendly pieces that are safe for infants and gentle on delicate skin.
Not every bath toy suits every age. Here’s a quick guide so you pick toys that match your child’s development and keep bath time engaging and safe.
For newborns, think soft, teething-safe toys and bath books with high-contrast images. Soft silicone toys and waterproof books stimulate senses without posing a choking risk. Keep toys simple and easy to clean.
At this stage, babies love cause-and-effect toys. Squirters, floating wobblers like the Matchstick Monkey Bathtime Wobblers, and simple stacking cups teach action and reaction. Make sure pieces are at least a couple inches wide to reduce risk.
Toddlers begin imaginative play and benefit from boats, characters, and small sets like the Matchstick Monkey Bathtime Boat Set. Learning toys with numbers or letters are great, too — they build vocabulary while kids play.
Older children enjoy more complex sets and role-play: submarine projectors, lightshow boats, and multi-piece playsets that tell a story. This is the time for more durable, slightly larger toys that encourage cooperative play with siblings.
A damp toy is a mold’s playground. With a few simple habits, you can keep toys safe and smelling fresh. These tips will save time and prevent the slimy surprises no parent wants to scrub.
After each bath, rinse toys with clean water and shake out excess. Leave them to air dry in a sunny spot if possible — UV light helps keep bacteria down. Avoid stuffing toys into a closed box while damp.
Do a weekly deep clean by soaking toys in a mild bleach solution (about 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water) for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. For silicone toys, a quick boil for a minute or two can sterilize them if the manufacturer permits. Always check labels before using heat.
When plastic peels, seams split, or colours fade, it’s time to toss the toy. Broken toys can hide mold and become safety hazards. Think of replacement as part of good bath hygiene — like swapping a toothbrush every few months.
Toy prices vary widely, but you don’t have to break the bank. Here are smart ways to keep costs down without sacrificing quality.
Multi-packs often offer better value than single pieces. Sets with a mix of boats, squirt toys, and letters cover all bases and typically cost less per toy. Stores like Argos and The Entertainer frequently run bundle promotions that are worth waiting for.
Look for deals around school holidays, Black Friday, and the January sales. Retailers often bundle bath toys with baby kits or sell them at deep discounts to clear shelf space. If you’re buying gifts for multiple children, seasonal sales are your best friend.
For eco-conscious parents, more brands now offer natural rubber, FSC-certified wooden toys, and non-toxic dyes. Sensory toys that combine textures, gentle sounds, and safe materials can stimulate development without synthetic additives. Check packaging for certifications and third-party safety checks to ensure you’re getting eco-friendly options that still perform in the tub.
Bath toys are more than splashy distractions — they’re tools for learning, sensory play, and calmer routines. Whether you prefer the licensed wonders at Ebebek, the bargain bundles at Argos, or premium designs at John Lewis, the UK market has options for every budget and parenting style. Keep safety and cleanliness at the top of your list, pick toys suited to your child’s age, and don’t forget to look out for seasonal deals. With the right picks, bath time can become the highlight of the day — and maybe the only time your child willingly gets clean!
| Bath Toys | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Nuby Bath Letters & Numbers | £ 5,69 | |
| Matchstick Monkey Bathtime Wobblers - Multicolour | £ 10,49 |
