Whoever said bathtime with your baby is fun? It can be anything but, especially at the start.
When we just had our first, I was furiously googling how long we could get away without washing her; I was so stressed.
The whole undertaking can be daunting. Making sure the temperature of the water is just right, the bathroom is cozy, and the towels are fluffy. And that’s before you have attempted to launch a crying baby into the water.
Always happy to help, we listed out baby bath tips here and reviewed the best baby bath towels and the 10 best non-toxic bath toys here. But if you’re looking for more distraction for baby, have a look at our round-up of best bath books. All of them non-toxic, of course.
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Bath time doesn’t need to be drama time: Pull out all the stops with our best bath books
1. Melissa & Doug Children’s Book – Float-Alongs: Playful Penguins
Penguins are great for capturing your baby’s imagination, so imagine her delight when this bath book comes with floating (fully sealed) cuties!
Melissa & Doug’s products have a special place in my heart. Every time I have bought one, I know it’s going to be a hit. I don’t know whether it’s because the parent couple behind this brand instinctively knows what works, or whether it’s pediatrician recommended. Still, either way, they’re great to use and even better to gift.
2. World of Eric Carle, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Bath Set – Brown Bear Book & Squirty
If your baby loves the Very Hungry Caterpillar, he will adore this waterproof bath book (6 inches) that comes with a cute matching squirt toy. Known for his colorful illustrations, Eric Carle doesn’t disappoint here.
Not sure what to buy your pregnant friend for her baby shower? You can’t go wrong with anything Eric Carle.
3. Melissa & Doug Children’s Book – Float-Alongs three little duckies
Created to spark your baby’s imagination, you can’t go wrong with anything by Melissa & Doug. This cute bath toy set is suitable for babies around 4 months old all the way to 2-year-old toddlers, so you’ll get great use out of it. Your baby will love turning the pages of this soft waterproof bath book. The three floating duckies can be stored in the mesh tube that comes with the book.
To prevent mold forming on the book, make sure you dry it out properly after each bath.
Looking for a much-appreciated baby shower gift? Why not buy this and add Melissa & Doug Tub Stickables?
3. Who’s Playing on the Farm?
Great for younger babies, this cute bath book is easy to follow with just one line on each page. Surprise your baby by dunking this charming little book into the bath: the animals in the book will turn from white to color!
Once you dry the book properly (standing it up and leaving the pages open), the pictures will turn white again.
ps if your baby loves this, why not get the whole series…
5. World of Eric Carle, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Bath Set
This adorable gift set of a 6-page soft bath book featuring Caterpillar and a cute squirty toy will delight any older baby or toddler. Based on the original, this waterproof book is a very simplified version of the story. It works best if your little one is familiar with the original text.
6. The Rainbow Fish bath book
The Rainbow Fish bath book is an adaptation of the modern classic with its core message of sharing. Your baby will be enthralled by the beautiful foil stamped fish, and you can teach him about sharing while you look at the pages together. This is a soft, but sturdy non-toxic book, perfect for a little fun in the bathtub.
Best for older babies and toddlers.
Final words
We hope you found what you were looking for with our round-up of best bath books. If you’re wondering how you can make bath time even better, why not have a look at our top 10 non-toxic bath toys?
Questions parents asked about bath books
Can you add learning to bath time?
Yes, even bath time can be turned into a learning activity, when your baby is a bit older. Read the books above with your little one. Or sing with your little one. Listen to these beforehand for some inspiration: “Elmo’s Rap Alphabet” by Sesame Street and “Old McDonald Had Some Vowels” by The Kiboomers
Special bath time crayons work well, and so do bath toys. Or order foam letters and start your toddler on a whole new literacy adventure next time he takes a bath!
What is the best time to bath baby?
To avoid drama, pick a time when you’re not expecting any interruptions. Also, make sure you’re baby isn’t hungry or has just been fed. I find the best time is before bedtime as it eases baby into her nighttime routine.
How long should I keep baby in the bath?
If you can aim for 5 to ten minutes, you’re golden. But if baby is having fun, by all means keep her in a bit longer. The main thing is that you don’t leave her on her own, no matter what. Better yet, leave your phone in your bedroom, so you’re free of any distractions.
How can I bath my baby safely?
Bathing a baby can be at best scary and, at worst, downright terrifying. From how to fill the bath to lower your baby into it and taking her out again. And what about the right shampoo or even soap? For something that, in all honesty, doesn’t take that long, you must have a million questions. Fret not, we answer your most pressing questions in our helpful guide on bathing your baby.
