What Is The Best Bathtub Toys [In 2025]

Bath time can be so much more than just getting clean. With the right toys, it transforms into a magical playtime that enhances your child’s development while making the whole experience more enjoyable for everyone involved. Whether you’re looking for engaging options for infants, toddlers, or preschoolers, the perfect bathtub toy can make all the difference.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the five best bathtub toys on the market today, analyzing their features, benefits, and potential drawbacks. From interactive water toys that promote sensory exploration to educational options that develop fine motor skills, we’ve researched the top choices to help you make the best selection for your little one.

Top 5 Best Bathtub Toys Review

iPlay, iLearn Baby Bath Toys: The Ultimate Set

What Makes This Set Special

The iPlay, iLearn Baby Bath Toys collection stands out as a comprehensive 8-piece set that’s designed to create a complete underwater adventure. Complete with a convenient storage basket, this set includes a swimming sea turtle, a swimming crab, a water spraying fish with rattle, a water spraying octopus, and four ocean-themed stacking cups.

What makes this set particularly appealing is its versatility. These toys aren’t just limited to bath time—they’re suitable for pools, lawns, patios, living rooms, preschools, beaches, parks, and more. Essentially, they can be used anywhere water is available, making them a great value for money.

Educational Benefits

The iPlay, iLearn set goes beyond mere entertainment. These toys are specifically designed to support early childhood development in multiple ways:

• Hand-eye coordination development: As children grab, squeeze, and manipulate these toys, they’re developing crucial coordination skills.
• Fine finger skills: The different mechanisms and textures help strengthen small muscle movements.
• Color recognition: The bright, varied colors help children learn to identify and differentiate colors.
• Cognitive development: The cause-and-effect relationships (like wind-up toys moving through water) support cognitive growth.

Unique Features

One of the standout features of this set is the wind-up functionality of the crab and turtle toys. No batteries are needed—children simply wind them up and watch as they paddle through the water, creating bursts of laughter and engagement. The squirting toys add another dimension of play, while the stacking cups provide classic developmental benefits.

Pros

• Comprehensive set: With eight pieces including different types of toys, this set offers excellent variety.
• No batteries required: The wind-up mechanism is environmentally friendly and always ready to use.
• Multifunctional play: Toys that squirt, bubble, swim, and stack provide diverse play experiences.
• Storage solution included: The accompanying basket makes cleanup and organization simple.
• Versatile use: Can be used in multiple environments beyond just the bathtub.
• Educational value: Supports development across multiple domains.

Cons

• Wind-up mechanism challenge: Some parents report that the wind-up function can be difficult for younger children (around 22 months) to operate independently.
• Durability concerns: A few reviews mention the turtle stopped working after several weeks of use.
• Water collection in storage basket: The basket doesn’t have drainage holes, potentially allowing water to collect and mold to grow.

Parent Feedback

Parents consistently praise these toys for making bath time more enjoyable. The stacking cups are highlighted as particularly useful replacements for measuring cups that might have previously been used as improvised bath toys. The squirting fish received special recognition as a “best bath toy” from one parent.

While most feedback is positive, some parents noted durability issues with the wind-up toys, particularly the turtle. The storage basket is appreciated, though some wish it had drainage holes to prevent water collection.

Munchkin Float & Play Bubbles: Sensory Stimulation for Infants

What Makes These Toys Special

The Munchkin Float & Play Bubbles offer a unique approach to bath time play, especially designed with babies in mind. This set includes four watertight, hole-free bubbles containing engaging elements—two character bubbles (featuring a duck and whale) and two whirly toys that spin and rattle.

What sets these toys apart is their sealed design, which completely eliminates the risk of water getting inside. This makes them one of the most hygienic options available, as parents won’t need to worry about mold or mildew developing in hidden crevices.

Developmental Benefits

These toys are specifically crafted to stimulate multiple senses:

• Sight: The clear dome design allows babies to see the colorful characters and moving elements inside.
• Hearing: The rattling sounds provide auditory stimulation.
• Touch: Textured rings that move freely around the bubbles enhance tactile exploration.

Recommended for babies four months and older, these toys are perfectly sized for little hands to grasp and manipulate, supporting the development of fine motor skills.

Unique Features

The most distinctive aspect of these toys is their completely sealed, watertight design. Unlike many bath toys that can trap water inside, these bubbles remain dry on the inside, eliminating any concern about mold or bacteria growth. The transparent outer shell allows babies to observe the colorful characters and movements within, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.

Each bubble features textured rings that move freely around the outside, adding another dimension to the sensory experience as babies manipulate them.

Pros

• Mold-free design: The watertight seal prevents water from entering, eliminating mold concerns.
• Multisensory stimulation: Engages sight, sound, and touch simultaneously.
• Perfect size for infants: Designed to be easily grasped by small hands.
• Floating fun: The bubbles float in water, making them easy for babies to track and retrieve.
• Durable construction: Sturdy enough to withstand rough handling.
• Simple yet engaging: The design captivates babies’ attention without overwhelming them.

Cons

• Limited interactive features: Compared to toys for older children, these have fewer functions.
• Potential for losing interest: Some older toddlers might outgrow these relatively quickly.
• Limited educational value: While great for sensory stimulation, they don’t offer as many learning opportunities as some other toys.

Parent Feedback

Parents of infants consistently praise these toys for their engaging qualities and mold-prevention design. Many specifically mention the perfect sizing for their babies’ hands and the captivating nature of the moving pieces inside the bubbles.

Parents of 8-month-olds particularly noted how their children loved shaking the rattling bubbles, while grandparents commented on how well-suited the toys were for toddler hands. The completely watertight nature of the toys emerged as a significant benefit across multiple reviews, with parents expressing relief at not having to worry about mold development.

BUNMO Suction Bath Toys: Creative Building Fun

What Makes These Toys Special

The BUNMO Suction Bath Toys offer a completely different bath time experience focused on creativity, building, and sensory satisfaction. This 10-pack of colorful silicone toys features strong suction cups that allow children to stick them to the bathtub, walls, windows, or any non-porous surface.

What makes these toys stand out is their versatility—children can connect, build, and create endless configurations, transforming bath time into an immersive construction experience. While marketed as bath toys, they’re equally enjoyable on windows, smooth walls, or any suitable surface, making them practical for various play scenarios.

Developmental Benefits

These innovative suction toys provide numerous developmental advantages:

• Fine motor skills: Connecting and separating the pieces requires precision and dexterity.
• Creative problem-solving: Building structures promotes spatial reasoning and creative thinking.
• Focus and concentration: The engaging building process encourages extended attention spans.
• Sensory experience: The satisfying “pop” when removing the suction cups provides pleasing sensory feedback.

Unique Features

The most distinctive aspect of these toys is their strong suction capability, allowing children to create vertical structures on bathtub walls or windows. The textured silicone material provides a pleasing tactile experience, while the convenient mesh storage bag aids in organization and drainage to prevent mold growth.

Designed for children 3 and older (though parents report younger children enjoying them with supervision), these BPA-free silicone toys are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Pros

• Endless creativity: Building possibilities encourage imaginative play.
• Mold prevention: No holes mean no water trapped inside, and the mesh bag allows for drainage.
• Versatile use: Can be used on various surfaces beyond just the bathtub.
• Sensory satisfaction: The suction and “pop” provide pleasing sensory feedback.
• Easy cleaning: Dishwasher-safe material simplifies maintenance.
• Durable construction: High-quality silicone withstands repeated use.
• Convenient storage: Included mesh bag keeps pieces organized.

Cons

• Strong suction challenge: Some parents mention that younger children may struggle to separate pieces when the suction is particularly strong.
• Age appropriateness: Officially recommended for 3+, though many parents report successful use with younger children under supervision.
• Limited attention span: While engaging, some parents note they don’t hold children’s attention for extremely long periods.
• Relatively small size: Some parents mention the pieces are smaller than expected (though still safe).

Parent Feedback

Parents consistently praise these toys for encouraging creative play while avoiding the mold issues common with traditional bath toys. The textured surfaces and sensory aspects receive particular mention, as does the convenience of the storage bag.

Many parents of 18-month-olds report their children loving these toys, suggesting they can be appropriate for younger children with proper supervision, despite the 3+ age recommendation. The toys’ ability to stick to various surfaces and even to other toys is highlighted as expanding play possibilities.

Bath Toys for Babies: Complete Ocean Adventure Set

What Makes This Set Special

This comprehensive 11-piece ocean-themed bath toy set offers remarkable variety, catering to multiple play styles and developmental stages. The collection includes a watering can, fishing net, amphibious dinghy, two swimming ducks, and six ocean animal-shaped toys (starfish, whale, sea lion, crab, octopus, and turtle).

What makes this set particularly appealing is its thoughtfully curated mix of interactive elements. Children can catch floating toys with the fishing net, enjoy the swimming action of the wind-up ducks and amphibious dinghy, and use the watering can for pouring and splashing activities—creating a complete aquatic play experience.

Developmental Benefits

This diverse set supports development across multiple domains:

• Hand-eye coordination: Fishing for floating toys and manipulating the wind-up mechanisms enhance coordination.
• Fine motor skills: Twisting wind-up toys and grasping different shapes strengthen dexterity.
• Color recognition: Distinctive colors help children identify and name different hues.
• Imaginative play: The ocean theme encourages storytelling and pretend scenarios.
• Parent-child interaction: The variety of toys creates opportunities for shared play experiences.

Unique Features

The standout feature of this set is its comprehensive nature—covering multiple types of water play in one collection. The no-hole design on the squeeze toys prevents water from getting trapped inside, addressing a common concern with bath toys.

The set is specifically designed with safety in mind, featuring food-grade PP and high-quality ABS materials that are BPA-free and phthalate-free. The toys have smooth edges and sealed designs to prevent water from entering interior spaces where mold could grow.

Pros

• Comprehensive variety: The 11-piece set provides multiple play options in one package.
• Mold-resistant design: No-hole construction prevents water trapping and mold growth.
• Interactive elements: Wind-up swimming toys, fishing activities, and water pouring create engaging experiences.
• Safe materials: BPA-free, phthalate-free construction with smooth edges ensures safety.
• Versatile use: Suitable for bathtubs, pools, water tables, and both indoor and outdoor play.
• Complete gift solution: The comprehensive nature makes it ideal for birthdays, baby showers, and holidays.

Cons

• Wind-up toys speed: Some parents mention the wind-up toys move quite fast, which might require supervision for younger children.
• Size considerations: The quantity of toys might require significant storage space.
• Age-appropriate concerns: While marketed for babies 0-12 months and up, some pieces may be more suitable for older babies and toddlers.

Parent Feedback

Parents consistently highlight the mold resistance as a major advantage of this set, with many specifically choosing it after experiencing mold problems with previous bath toys. The quality of the fishing net receives particular praise, as does the durability of the squeeze toys.

Multiple reviews mention how these toys make bath time more enjoyable and engaging for children. Parents appreciate the bright colors and cute designs that capture their children’s attention, along with the ease of cleaning and overall durability of the set.

Gigilli Light Up Whale Bath Toy: Rechargeable Interactive Fun

What Makes This Toy Special

The Gigilli Light Up Whale Bath Toy brings a high-tech element to bath time with its automatic water spraying feature and colorful flashing lights. What truly sets this toy apart is its rechargeable battery design—eliminating the need for constant battery replacements and concerns about battery compartment leakage.

When placed in water, this adorable whale automatically activates, spraying water and displaying colorful lights that transform an ordinary bath into a magical experience. The toy is specifically designed to captivate babies’ attention and create excitement around bath time.

Technological Innovations

This whale bath toy incorporates several thoughtful design elements:

• Rechargeable battery: The built-in rechargeable battery can spray water for approximately 120 minutes after a full charge—equivalent to the power of about 12 AAA batteries.
• Water-protection technology: A silicone plug protects the small USB charging port, effectively preventing water seepage that could damage the electronics.
• Updated design: The newer model includes an on/off button (not present in earlier versions), giving parents more control over the toy’s operation.

Unique Features

The most distinctive aspect of this toy is its light-and-water show capability. The combination of water spraying and colorful flashing lights creates a multisensory experience that fascinates young children. The rechargeable design sets it apart from similar toys that require constant battery replacement, making it both economical and environmentally friendly over time.

Pros

• Cost-effective: The rechargeable battery eliminates the need for continuous battery purchases.
• Engaging sensory experience: The combination of lights and water spraying captivates children’s attention.
• Environmental benefit: Rechargeable design reduces battery waste.
• Extended play time: A full charge provides approximately 120 minutes of play.
• Water-resistant design: The silicone-protected charging port prevents water damage.
• Versatile use: Suitable for bathtubs, swimming pools, and showers.
• Attention-grabbing: Automatically activates in water, drawing children’s interest to bath time.

Cons

• Technical issues in earlier models: Some reviews of earlier versions mention problems with the toy not turning off or staying on perpetually until the battery dies.
• Potential water mess: The toy sprays water quite high, which might create cleanup challenges if the bathtub is filled too high.
• Charging maintenance: Requires occasional recharging, which might be inconvenient if forgotten before bath time.
• Mixed durability reports: While many users report excellent longevity, some experienced functionality issues after several months.

Parent Feedback

Parent reviews show a mix of experiences, with many praising the toy’s engaging nature and rechargeable convenience. Parents particularly appreciate not having to continually purchase batteries and note that children find the light and water show highly entertaining.

Several reviews mention the impressive battery life, with some reporting months of use before requiring recharging. The updated model with an on/off button receives significantly better feedback than earlier versions, which some users found problematic due to control issues.

Parents of children across the recommended age range (6 months to 4 years) report their children enjoying this toy, though it seems particularly captivating for babies and younger toddlers. The water spray height is mentioned as both a positive feature (creating excitement) and a potential challenge (causing water to splash outside the tub).

Why Quality Bath Toys Matter

Bath toys aren’t just about entertainment—they’re valuable tools for development. The right toys can help your child develop hand-eye coordination, enhance their cognitive abilities, and even improve their understanding of cause and effect. Plus, engaging toys make bath time something to look forward to rather than a chore.

However, not all bath toys are created equal. Durability, safety, and the potential for mold growth are important factors to consider. That’s why we’ve carefully selected and reviewed the five best options available today, considering various needs, age ranges, and developmental benefits.

How to Choose the Right Bath Toy for Your Child

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Age Considerations

When selecting bath toys, age appropriateness should be your primary consideration:

For Babies (0-12 months)

• Safety first: Choose toys with no small parts that could pose choking hazards.
• Sensory stimulation: Look for toys with bright colors, interesting textures, and gentle sounds.
• Simple operation: Select toys that babies can easily grasp and manipulate.
• The Munchkin Float & Play Bubbles are particularly well-suited for this age range.

For Toddlers (1-3 years)

• Interactive features: Wind-up toys, squirters, and pouring toys capture toddlers’ interest.
• Cause and effect: Toys that demonstrate clear results from actions help cognitive development.
• Imaginative play: Ocean themes and character-based toys support emerging pretend play.
• The iPlay, iLearn set and the Ocean Adventure Set offer excellent options for toddlers.

For Preschoolers (3-5 years)

• Creative potential: Building and construction toys engage older children’s imagination.
• Problem-solving: Toys that can be used in multiple ways challenge growing minds.
• Complex play patterns: Sets with multiple pieces support more sophisticated play scenarios.
• The BUNMO Suction Toys are perfect for this age group’s developing skills.

Safety Features to Consider

When evaluating bath toys, keep these safety aspects in mind:

• Mold prevention: No-hole designs or toys that can be fully opened for cleaning reduce mold risk.
• Material quality: Look for BPA-free, phthalate-free materials with non-toxic certifications.
• Size appropriateness: Ensure toys don’t have small parts that could be choking hazards for younger children.
• Smooth edges: Avoid toys with sharp corners or rough surfaces that could cause injuries.
• Water-safe electronics: For battery-operated toys, ensure they have secure, water-resistant compartments.

Maintenance and Cleaning

To extend the life of bath toys and ensure they remain safe:

• Regular drying: Always empty water from toys and allow them to dry completely between uses.
• Periodic deep cleaning: Consider cleaning with a mild bleach solution or dishwasher (if toy is dishwasher-safe) monthly.
• Storage solutions: Use mesh bags or ventilated containers that allow air circulation.
• Inspect regularly: Check for mold growth or damage and replace toys as needed.
• Follow manufacturer instructions: Some toys may have specific cleaning recommendations.

Maximizing Bath Toy Benefits Through Interactive Play

Developmental Activities with Bath Toys

Transform ordinary bath time into a learning opportunity with these activity ideas:

Language Development

• Name the animals in the ocean-themed sets
• Describe actions (swimming, spraying, floating)
• Create stories about underwater adventures
• Sing songs related to water and ocean creatures

Math Concepts

• Count the toys as you place them in the water
• Sort toys by color, size, or type
• Use stacking cups to explore volume and measurement
• Discuss concepts like “more” and “less” with water pouring

Science Exploration

• Talk about why some toys float while others sink
• Observe how water moves through different toys
• Discuss animal habitats and ocean life
• Explore cause and effect with wind-up or spraying toys

Physical Development

• Encourage reaching, grasping, and manipulating different toys
• Practice hand-eye coordination with fishing nets
• Strengthen finger muscles with squeeze toys
• Develop bilateral coordination by using both hands together

Creating a Bath Time Routine

Establishing a consistent routine helps children know what to expect and can make transitions smoother:

1. Preparation stage: Select toys together before filling the tub
2. Exploration time: Allow free play with the chosen toys
3. Guided activities: Introduce specific games or challenges
4. Clean-up lesson: Involve children in rinsing and storing toys
5. Rotation system: Keep bath time fresh by alternating available toys

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent mold from growing in bath toys?

Mold prevention starts with choosing the right toys—look for no-hole designs or toys that can be completely opened for cleaning. After each use, squeeze out any trapped water and allow toys to dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Consider regular cleaning with a mild bleach solution (1:10 ratio with water) or running dishwasher-safe toys through a cleaning cycle monthly. Storage in mesh bags or ventilated containers also helps prevent mold growth by allowing air circulation.

Are battery-operated bath toys safe for young children?

Battery-operated bath toys can be safe when properly designed with secure, water-resistant compartments. Look for toys specifically created for bath use, and regularly inspect the battery compartment for signs of water intrusion or corrosion. Rechargeable options like the Gigilli Whale eliminate concerns about battery replacement and potential leakage. Always supervise children when using electronic toys in water, and follow manufacturer age recommendations.

How often should bath toys be replaced?

The lifespan of bath toys varies depending on quality, usage frequency, and care practices. Generally, inspect toys monthly for signs of damage, discoloration, or mold that can’t be removed through cleaning. Most high-quality bath toys should last 6-12 months with proper care, though some durable options may last longer. If a toy develops cracks, leaks, or persistent mold issues, it should be replaced immediately regardless of age.

What are the best bath toys for encouraging STEM skills?

For science, technology, engineering, and math development, look for toys that demonstrate cause and effect (like the wind-up swimming animals), allow for experimentation (water wheels or funnels), or support building concepts (the BUNMO suction toys). Stacking cups are excellent for exploring volume and measurement, while fishing nets develop understanding of buoyancy. Even simple squeeze toys can demonstrate principles of air pressure and water displacement when properly explained.

Can bath toys be beneficial for children with sensory sensitivities?

Absolutely! Bath toys can be particularly helpful for children with sensory sensitivities or processing differences. The predictable sensory feedback from toys like the BUNMO suction pieces (with their satisfying “pop”) or the textured surfaces of many bath toys provides controlled sensory input. Water temperature, flow patterns from spraying toys, and the tactile experience of different toy materials all offer therapeutic sensory experiences. For children who find bath time challenging, engaging toys can transform the experience from stressful to enjoyable while supporting sensory integration.

Conclusion

Bath toys offer far more than just entertainment—they provide valuable opportunities for learning, development, and bonding. The five products reviewed in this article represent some of the best options available, each offering unique benefits:

• iPlay, iLearn Baby Bath Toys: A comprehensive set with multiple play options and educational benefits
• Munchkin Float & Play Bubbles: Perfect for sensory stimulation in infants with mold-free design
• BUNMO Suction Bath Toys: Creative building opportunities with satisfying sensory feedback
• Ocean Adventure Set: A complete collection of interactive toys with mold-resistant features
• Gigilli Light Up Whale: Engaging light and water show with eco-friendly rechargeable design

When selecting bath toys, consider your child’s age, developmental needs, and your own priorities regarding maintenance and safety features. With the right toys, bath time can transform from a daily routine into a highlight of your child’s day—creating joyful moments while supporting their growth and development.