Top Bath Toys in the UK: Fun Picks for Toddlers and Children

For many parents, bath time is a cherished daily ritual. It can also be a challenge, especially with a little one who is less than keen on getting clean. The right bath toys can transform the tub from a chore into a playground, making it a highlight of the day for both you and your child. But with so many options available, how do you choose toys that are not only fun but also safe and beneficial for your child's development?

As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the choices. This guide offers practical advice and highlights a few standout options to help you find the perfect additions for engaging sensory water play.

How to Choose the Right Bath Toys

Before diving into specific products, here are a few key points to consider when making your selection. These tips will help you choose toys that are appropriate, safe and will be enjoyed for many baths to come.

Prioritise Safe, Non-Toxic Materials

A child’s safety is the number one priority. Look for non-toxic bath toys made from materials that are free from harmful chemicals. In the UK, toys must meet strict safety standards, but it is always wise to check product details. Opt for items explicitly labelled as BPA-free, especially for younger babies who are likely to put toys in their mouths. Additionally, consider how easy a toy is to clean. Toys with sealed designs or those that can be easily opened and air-dried are less likely to trap water, which helps prevent the growth of mould and mildew.

Match Toys to Your Child's Age and Stage

A toy that fascinates a toddler might be unsuitable for a newborn.

• For newborns (0-6 months): Simple baby bath toys that engage the senses are ideal. Think of a soft, waterproof baby book with bright colours or a gentle floating toy they can watch and grasp.
• For older babies (6-12 months): As babies develop their motor skills, they enjoy more interactive toys. Stacking bath cups that they can fill, pour and knock over are excellent for developing hand-eye coordination.
• For toddlers (1-3+ years):Toddler bath toys can be more complex. Foam bath letters and numbers introduce early learning concepts, while toys that encourage problem-solving and imaginative play provide lasting entertainment.

Look for Educational and Sensory Value

Bath time is a fantastic opportunity for learning through play. Educational bath toys can help introduce concepts like colours, numbers and cause and effect in a relaxed environment. Toys that float, sink, sprinkle or change colour offer rich sensory water play, capturing a child's curiosity and helping them understand the world around them.

Top Product Recommendations

Here are four recommendations that cater to different ages and play styles, selected to help make your child's bath time both fun and developmental.

Nuby Bathtime Book 0+ Months

Why It Stands Out: This waterproof book is a wonderful first bath toy. Its soft pages are easy for tiny hands to hold, and the bright, engaging characters help stimulate visual perception. The surprise squeaker page adds an element of auditory discovery, making it a simple yet effective sensory toy.

Pros:

• Made from safe, BPA-free vinyl.
• Completely waterproof and easy to wipe clean.
• Features a fun squeaker page for interactive play.
• Bright colours and friendly characters capture a baby's attention.

Who is it for: Ideal for parents looking to introduce their newborn (0+ months) to the fun of bath time with a simple, safe and engaging sensory toy.

Munchkin Bath Strainers 9+ Months 7 Pack

Why It Stands Out: These versatile cups offer multiple ways to play. They can be linked together, stacked into a tower or used for scooping and pouring. Each cup is numbered and has a unique base pattern that creates different sprinkle effects, introducing early concepts of numbers and cause and effect.

Pros:

• Set of 7 cups for linking, stacking and pouring.
• Numbered 1-7 to help with counting skills.
• Made from BPA-free plastic and is top-rack dishwasher safe.
• Each cup creates a different water sprinkle effect for visual stimulation.

Who is it for: A great choice for babies from 9 months onwards who are developing their motor skills and are ready for more interactive, hands-on play.

Munchkin Bath Letters & Numbers 18+ Months 36 Pieces

Why It Stands Out: A classic for a reason, this set of foam bath letters and numbers turns the tub into an interactive learning space. The 36 colourful pieces float in the water and stick to the bath walls when wet, allowing toddlers to practise spelling their name, counting and identifying colours.

Pros:

• Includes 26 letters (A-Z) and 10 numbers (0-9).
• Made from soft, durable and non-toxic foam.
• Sticks to tub walls when wet for interactive learning.
• Encourages language, numeracy and colour recognition skills.

Who is it for: Perfect for toddlers aged 18 months and up, helping to reinforce early literacy and numeracy skills in a fun, playful setting.

Munchkin Colour Buddies Bath Set 24+ Months 22 Pack

Why It Stands Out: This set brings a splash of creativity to the tub with bath bombs for kids. It includes 20 colourful, fizzing bath bombs and two floating dispenser toys. Children can mix colours to create new ones, turning bath time into a fun science experiment. The formula is designed to be gentle on the skin.

Pros:

• Includes 20 bath bombs and 2 floating dispenser toys.
• Formulated with Vitamin E and shea butter to moisturise skin.
• Non-toxic and non-staining formula is easy to clean.
• Encourages colour recognition and creative experimentation.

Who is it for: Toddlers aged 24 months and older who love colourful, creative and sensory activities will be captivated by this fizzing, colour-changing set.

Looking for More Options?

While these selections are excellent starting points, every child's preferences are unique. If you are searching for a wider variety of toys to spark imagination and support learning, you can find more choices in our collection.

Explore our full range of educational activity toys to find the perfect fit for your little one.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bath Toys

How should I clean bath toys to prevent mould?

Regular cleaning is key. After each bath, squeeze out any excess water from squirty toys. Wash toys weekly with a solution of diluted vinegar and water or on the top rack of the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Most importantly, allow them to air dry completely away from the damp bathroom environment. Choosing toys that are easy to open or have a solid construction can also minimise this issue.

At what age can a baby start using bath toys?

Simple baby bath toys can be introduced from birth. A floating toy or a soft, waterproof cloth book can provide gentle stimulation for a newborn. As your baby grows and can sit up and grasp objects (usually around 6 months), you can introduce more interactive toys like stacking cups and floating animals. Always ensure the toys are age-appropriate and supervise your child at all times.

Are coloured bath bombs suitable for young children?

When choosing bath bombs for kids, it is important to select products specifically formulated for them. Look for those with non-toxic, skin-friendly ingredients that are free from harsh chemicals and heavy perfumes. The Munchkin Colour Buddies, for example, are designed with a non-staining formula and contain moisturising ingredients like shea butter. Always check the product's recommended age and discontinue use if any skin irritation occurs.