Baby bath mats essentially serve one vital purpose – to protect your baby from slipping and sliding in the bath. Have you been searching for the best baby bath mat on the market? I think most parents will agree with my top pick – the BeeHomee Bath Mat for Tubs Kids.
Every parent knows the dangers of babies and toddlers in the bath. It takes a split second for a child to slip and fall under the water. If you’re not on hand, the outcome could be disastrous. A baby bath mat adds extra protection to your baby’s bathing needs. Read my article about water tables for older babies – it might save you from having to bath your baby every day!
- My Top Picks
- Bath Safety: Let’s Talk About The Baby Bath Mat
- Best Overall – BeeHomee Bath Mats for Tub Kids
- Best Value – Munchkin Quack Duck Bath Mat
- Best Natural Rubber – Epica Anti-Slip Machine Washable Anti-Bacterial Bath Mat
- Best for Baby Tubs – IKEA Patrull Bathtub Mat
- Best for Hygiene – Hermosa Collection Original Design Non Slip Safety Bath and Shower Mat
- FAQ
- Conclusion
My Top Picks
- Best Overall – BeeHomee Bath Mats For Tub Kids
- Best Value – Munchkin Quack Duck Bath Mat
- Best Natural Rubber – Epica Anti-Slip Machine Washable Anti-Bacterial Bath Mat
- Best For Baby Tubs – IKEA Patrull Bathtub Mat
- Best For Hygiene – Hermosa Collection Original Design Non Slip Safety Bath And Shower Mat
Bath Safety: Let’s Talk About The Baby Bath Mat
Whether you’re bathing your newborn or an older baby, a baby bath mat will give you peace of mind knowing they are safe in the bath. Bath time can be fun, but it has its hazards. By using a bath mat, you won’t need to worry about your baby slipping or falling and hurting themselves. But the baby bath mats come in different varieties and you may be wondering which one to buy. Different babies have different bathing needs. This made me realize the importance of finding the right baby bath mat. Read on to find out why baby bath mats are important and which one would suit your baby best.
Why are Baby Bath Mats Important?
Most babies love to bath. From newborn to toddlers, parents find bathing time a pleasure. But bathing comes with its hazards. A baby bath mat gives you peace of mind while your baby is in the bath. These mats are designed to ensure the safety of your baby. They prevent slippage, giving your baby more grip while sitting or standing in the bath.
What are The Advantages of a Baby Bath Mat?
Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of using a baby bath mat.
- Bathing your newborn can be nerve-wracking especially when you’re new to the game. While you’ll be cradling your newborn over the water, a baby bath mat can be useful. Babies love to be in the water. A bath mat will give you grip while holding your newborn in the water.
- An older baby who can sit will use a baby bath ring. These can keep your baby firmly in one place. But babies are good at wriggling out of things when they really want to! A baby bath mat placed under them will keep them from sliding into the water.
- Toddlers can spend hours in the bath if they could. And they love to stand in the bath. Toddlers get easily distracted with toys and end up slipping. A baby bath mat will stop them from slipping. You won’t need to worry about them getting nasty bumps on their heads.
- A baby bath mat helps your baby to transition from a baby tub to an adult-size bath safely.
How to Choose the Best Baby Bath Mat?
The main feature to look out for in a baby bath mat are the anti-slip features. Hygiene is important and easy to clean with anti-bacterial features add to the value of a bath mat. Size is another feature to consider. Of course, bright colors and funky pictures keep your baby entertained so look out for these features too.
- Anti-slip: All the products reviewed have suction cups to keep the baby bath mat in place securely. The Hermosa Collection Non Slip Bath and Shower Mat makes special mention of the product’s ultra-strong suction cups.
- Hygiene: All the mats are easy to clean although the Hermosa Collection’s Mat and Epica Anti Slip Machine Washable Natural Rubber Bathmat are machine washable. The anti-bacterial features of these mats are a bonus for extra hygiene. The IKEA Patrul Bathtub Mat’s special holes makes it easier to hang up after bath time.
- Size: The size and shape of the IKEA’s Mat does not allow for optimum coverage in a bathtub. However, it would work well in a long baby tub. The same problem could arise with the Munchkin Quack Duck Bath Mat. All the other products give adequate coverage in both baths and showers.
- Funky colors and patterns: As I was reviewing specifically for baby bath mats I felt it was important to include the color and patterns as a feature to look out for. Babies would love the IKEA’s and Munchkin’s while toddlers will go crazy for the cheerful patterns on the BeeHomee Bath Mat for Tubs Kids.
Bonus: Newborn Bathing Tips
Use these tips to make bathing time with your newborn relaxing and comfortable.
- Sponge bath your newborn in the first few weeks. Make sure the room is warm and wrap your baby in a towel. Have a bowl of warm water nearby and baby soap & a wash cloth. Starting at the face, gently wipe down your baby with the damp washcloth and soap. Unwrap the towel as you reach the part of the body you’re cleaning. When you’re finished, dry off your baby, put on a clean diaper and dress them snugly.
- When your newborn’s umbilical cord has fallen off, you can use a baby bathtub. Fill the tub up with about 3 inches of warm water. Undress your baby and place them in the water. This is where a baby bath mat is useful. Use one hand to cradle your baby’s head while placing their feet in the tub. Gently splash the warm water onto your baby’s body. Use a washcloth to soap down their body. When done, lift them out of the tub and wrap them in a towel. Dry off making sure you get to all the creases in their skin.
- A newborn’s scalp only needs to be shampooed once or twice a week. Use a mild baby shampoo.
- Never leave your baby unattended in the tub.
Best Overall – BeeHomee Bath Mats for Tub Kids
The colorful cartoons on this mat will keep your toddler entertained for hours! The hundreds of suction cups ensure this mat stays securely on the floor of the bath or shower. This bath mat is durable and easy to clean. The cartoons vary from sea creatures to animals to alphabets.
Who It’s For
This is perfect for toddlers who like to use the shower or bath.
Why You Should Consider It
These extra-large mats provide excellent coverage. You won’t need to worry about exposed areas in the bathtub. The textured pattern gives extra grip for busy feet.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 35 x 16 x 0.1″
- Color: Bright colors
- Number per pack: 1
- Ages: All ages
- Materials: PVC
- Type: Bath and shower mat
Pros
- Easy to remove with light force
- Kids love the patterns
- Well-priced
Cons
- Cannot be used on textured surfaces
- No drainage holes
- Strong rubber smell
Best Value – Munchkin Quack Duck Bath Mat
This bright and cheerful mat shaped like a duck is a delight for babies. Its skid-resistant suction cups hold the mat in place. It’s easy to clean with warm, soapy water. Hang it out to dry.
Who It’s For
This is perfect for active babies and toddlers.
Why You Should Consider It
The textured surface keeps your little one from slipping and sliding. When not being used it can be rolled up and stored away when dry.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 3.2 x 3.2 x 16.7”
- Color: Bright yellow
- Number per pack: 1
- Ages: 0+ months
- Materials: Textured PVC
- Type: Bath mat
Pros
- Good quality
- Good coverage in the bath
- Kids and adults love the cute design
Cons
- Bad toxic smell
- No padding/thin, flat mat
- Doesn’t adhere easily to textured surfaces
Best Natural Rubber – Epica Anti-Slip Machine Washable Anti-Bacterial Bath Mat
If you’re looking for a natural rubber product this is the one for you. It doesn’t come with the toxic smell common with most plastic bath mats. Its anti-bacterial agent stops mold, mildew and bacteria from developing. Simply toss into the washing machine whenever it needs to be cleaned.
Who It’s For
This is perfect for the eco-friendly home.
Why You Should Consider It
Hundreds of suction cups keep this mat in place when in the bath. It repels slippery soap preventing slippery problems!
Product Information
- Dimensions: 28 x 16 x 1″
- Color: Neutral
- Number per pack: 1
- Ages: All ages
- Materials: Rubber and latex-free
- Type: Bath and shower mat
Pros
- Optimum coverage in both bath tubs and showers
- Textured upper surface for good gripping
- Safe for people with latex allergy
Cons
- No bright, colorful pictures for babies to enjoy
- Not very durable
- Discolors easily
Best for Baby Tubs – IKEA Patrull Bathtub Mat
Another cute baby bath mat, this time shaped like a crocodile it comes in a funky green color. The material is rubber. The suctions keep it from sliding around the bath or baby tubs. Reviews rave about its long-lasting durability.
Who It’s For
This is perfect for newborns and small babies still using a baby tub.
Why You Should Consider It
This mat hangs up easily with special holes in the tail and eyes for this specific reason.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 35 x 13 x 1”
- Color: Vibrant green
- Number per pack: 1
- Ages: 0+ months
- Materials: Rubber
- Type: Bath mat
Pros
- Easy to clean and to dry
- No mold or mildew problems
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Less than ideal coverage in a bath
- Suction cups dry out easily
- Narrow shape
Best for Hygiene – Hermosa Collection Original Design Non Slip Safety Bath and Shower Mat
This mat comes with ultra-strong suction cups but it’s not recommended for textured or tiled surfaces. It’s easy to maintain and is completely toxin-free. As a result, it does not have a toxic smell associated with many plastic bath mats.
Who It’s For
This is perfect for babies and adults with sensitive skin.
Why You Should Consider It
This extra-long mat is perfect for optimum coverage. The holes in the mat allow for smart non-stop drainage.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 39 x 16 x 1”
- Color: 3 different colors (black, blue and clear white)
- Number per pack: 1
- Ages: All ages
- Materials: BPA, phthalates, latex-free
- Type: Bath and shower mat
Pros
- Machine washable
- Multi-purpose use for extra protection on floors
- 10-year guarantee
Cons
- Build-up of slime under the mat
- Tends to curl on the corners
- No cool colors or pictures for babies
FAQ
Do you really need a baby bath mat?
If you’re concerned about the safety of your baby when they bath, a baby bath mat is an absolute necessity. They prevent slippage and protect your baby from going under the water or bumping themselves hard.
What care and maintenance do baby bath mats require?
It’s a good idea to always hang the mat up after every bath to prevent the build up of slime and mold or mildew. Every now and then throw them into a washing machine if they’re machine washable or scrub down with warm, soapy water. Hang outside to dry but not in direct sunlight.
What do a baby mat’s stand-out features include?
The key features to look out for in a baby bath mat are strong suction cups, ease of cleaning, textured upper surface for extra grip, optimal coverage of the bathtub or shower floor, and engaging, visually stimulating designs to keep the little ones entertained.
Conclusion
Every toddler (and baby) will fall in love with the BeeHomee Bath Mat for Tubs Kids. Parents will have peace of mind with the hundreds of suction cups that keep the mat firmly in place. It was my top pick of the baby bath mats I reviewed. But each product ticked the safety feature while others had some extra features to consider. Which one would you choose as the best baby bath mat for peace of mind when your baby is in the bath?
Last update on 2024-09-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API