toddler bath toys Australia

Bath Toys & Water Play: A Parent’s Guide to Safe, Sensory Fun

Bath time isn’t just a routine—it’s a daily chance for learning, bonding, and play. With the right toys, you can transform the tub into a sensory-rich playground that supports your baby or toddler’s development. This guide will walk you through the benefits of water play, how to choose the best bath toys, and fun ways to use them both inside and outside the bathroom.


💧 Why Bath Toys Matter

Bath toys encourage children to explore textures, temperatures, and movement. Actions like squeezing, pouring, and floating teach cause and effect, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills.

When babies squeeze a toy or watch water flow through a funnel, they’re also engaging in early STEM play—experimenting with gravity, pressure, and volume in a hands-on way.

These toys also help make bath time easier. They keep children entertained and relaxed, reducing resistance and making daily washing feel more like play than a chore.


👶 How Bath Toys Support Development

  • Motor Skills: Scooping, squeezing, and pouring strengthen hands and fingers.

  • Sensory Exploration: Different shapes, textures, and sounds stimulate touch, sight, and hearing.

  • Language Skills: Talking about colours, counting toys, and singing bath songs support vocabulary.

  • Emotional Comfort: Familiar toys can ease anxiety and create positive bath routines.


🧼 Tips for Keeping Bath Toys Clean

To avoid mould or mildew, always:

  • Rinse toys with clean water after each bath.

  • Let them air dry completely.

  • Choose toys that can open or are dishwasher-safe.

  • Store in a mesh bag or perforated container to encourage airflow.


🛁 Choosing the Right Bath Toys by Age

0–6 Months:

  • Soft, easy-to-hold toys

  • Floating animals or silicone teethers

  • Rattles or crinkly water-safe books

6–12 Months:

  • Squeeze toys

  • Stacking cups

  • Textured or suction toys with movement

12+ Months:

  • Scoop-and-pour sets

  • Water wheels or spinning gears

  • Boats, fountains, or suction play centers


🌈 Beyond the Tub: More Ways to Use Bath Toys

Water play doesn’t have to stay in the tub. Try these ideas:

  • Sensory bin: Use a large plastic bin filled with warm water and toys.

  • Outdoor play: Set up a mini splash zone with buckets and cups.

  • Sink play: Supervised water play at the kitchen sink is a great rainy day activity.

  • Garden fun: Let toddlers “water” plants with their bath scoops.


🎁 Great Gift Ideas

Bath toys make thoughtful, practical gifts for babies and toddlers. They’re budget-friendly, lightweight for mailing, and useful for daily routines. Pair them with:

  • A soft hooded towel

  • Silicone bath brush or sponge

  • Non-slip play mat or bath book


🛒 Explore BabyCoo’s Bath Toys Collection

At BabyCoo, we offer a curated range of bath toys and water play sets that combine safety, sensory value, and lasting fun. All are made from BPA-free, baby-safe materials and are easy to clean and dry.

Whether you’re shopping for bath time, travel play, or an outdoor splash session, our collection has options for every little learner.


❓ Quick FAQ

Q: Are bath toys suitable for 6-month-olds?
A: Yes! Choose soft, floating toys designed for infants, and always supervise water play.

Q: How often should I clean bath toys?
A: Rinse after every use and do a deep clean weekly. Use vinegar or mild soap.

Q: Can bath toys be used in pools or water tables?
A: Absolutely. Most bath toys are great for sinks, paddling pools, and sensory bins.

Q: Are these toys educational?
A: Yes. They support sensory exploration, coordination, and problem-solving in a playful way.


💡 Bonus tip: For more water-safe play ideas and bath toy pairings, browse our Sensory Toy Collection.

Let bath time become your child’s favourite part of the day—with toys that teach, soothe, and spark joy.