Baby Bath and the Tub

Many tubs have a removable mesh or fabric inner cradle so a baby can't move around inside too much. Others have a foam-lined contoured interior that allows a baby who can't sit up yet to relax in a semi-upright position. You'll also find tubs designed to fit in the sink initially, then convert to a tub that can be placed in a regular bathtub when your baby can sit up, at about 6 months. Although there are tubs on the market that are supposedly designed for babies from newborn to toddler or 0 to 25 pounds, she'll probably outgrow this style baby bathtub too, once she's about 9 months old. Then it's time to move your baby to a regular bathtub that contains only a small amount of water.

Buy a bathtub that has a contoured design or an internal sling that cradles the baby in the water. In most of these tubs, the sling can be removed when you feel your baby is big enough to hold still while you are bathing them. A mildew-resistant, padded foam lining is also a plus. If you're short on space, buy a unit that folds. You can also buy one that doesn't fold and can be stored in your shower, under the sink or in a closet.

Here are some features to consider when buying a baby bathtub...

Contoured design with padded lining. In lieu of a sling, a contoured design is a must for keeping a baby from sliding around too much.

A drain with an attached plug. This can make the tub easier to empty. A large drain plug allows for quicker post-bath cleanup.

Temperature indicator. Some models of bathtubs have temperature indicators--a temperature strip or a drain plug that change color when the water is too hot for a baby.

Convertibility. Some tubs are made to last from newborn to toddler. A convertible tub, though, probably won't last you as long as manufacturers claim, but it will probably buy you three more months or so, but not much more.

Foldability. Some tubs fold in half for easy storage. To make sure a foldable tub won't leak, practice at first with a small amount of water. The downside? This style can be compact; your baby may bust out of it quickly.

An internal mesh sling/cradle. It's cozy and supportive, especially for a newborn. Some models come with a two-position backrest for added comfort. Some fabric slings have steel rods that support the infrastructure. Other slings are hammock-like and don't have steel rods.

Fresh-water rinse. Some tubs feature a separate, battery-powered shower unit that lets you rinse your baby with fresh water instead of using bath water. There are also shower units that sit inside the tub, but these units could get in the way, crowding their baby's leg room.

Easy storage. Some models have a handle or hook on the back to hang the tub up for draining or storage. That's a feature to look for if space is tight. Hang the tub upright from its hook in your shower, so water doesn't drip on the bathroom floor.

A smooth, overhanging rim. This feature makes it much easier to carry a heavy, water-filled tub (without your baby in it) from the sink to another location.

Nonskid surface. Some models have a nonskid surface on the bottom to keep the tub from sliding in a regular bathtub.

Don't buy an inflatable bath tub or a bath seat. Bath seats are designed to fit into the tub when your baby is big enough to sit up. They attach with suctions to the bottom of the tub. I used one with my daughter one time. The suction didn't suck to the tub after the water was in the tub, and she leaned forward and went head first into the tub. I don't think I have ever moved that fast in my life. Needless to say, that bath seat went straight to the garbage can! Inflatable tubs fit into the tub as well and give your baby padded space to bathe in. I also tried one of these, and it was too big for the baby, even though she was sitting up, she may as well have been in the regular tub.

Here are some basic bathing safety tips for you and your baby....

Never leave your baby unattended during bath time, even for a second, even when you're just filling the tub with water. Plan ahead. Make sure you have everything on hand before you start the bath. You don't want to have to scurry for a washcloth or towel while your baby is in the tub.

When bathing your baby, fill the tub with as little water as possible. Two inches is a good amount.

Be careful about scalding water. The water should feel warm, not hot. Before you put your baby in the tub, test the temperature with your wrist, elbow, or the back of your hand.

If you need to leave the bathroom, take your baby with you. Don't rely on older children to watch the baby for you. If the phone rings, let the answering machine or Voice Mail pick it up. If there's a knock on the door, ignore it. Make that rule as stringent as strapping your baby into her car seat every time you drive.

When using a baby bathtub in the sink or in a regular tub, always turn the hot water off first and watch out for hot metal spigots. Get a cover for the bathtub's spout to protect your child from its heat-conducting metal and hard edges. Some covers are soft plastic in the shape of an animal, such as a moose or an elephant. Others are inflatable plastic. Swoosh tub water around with your hand so that any hot spots even out.

Always empty the bathtub immediately after bath time. Babies can drown in as little as one inch of water.

When your baby graduates to a regular bathtub, attach rubber strips to the bottom of the tub to prevent slipping.

So, this is an item that can store bought or bought online. It is a good idea to talk to friends that have babies and see what they use, and are they happy with it. I must have bought 5 different models before I found one that suited me until both my babies were ready for the big tub.