Fisher-Price 4-In-1 Sling ‘N Seat Baby Bath Tub Seat

Milestones can come nearly every week when you’re caring for a newborn. One of the big ones is baby’s first bath time, and it can be a beautiful chance to bond with your child … or a stressful and traumatic event that leaves both you and your little one wet and wailing.

The difference between the two can be as simple as a reliable bath seat. These products can come in a variety of different configurations, from mesh contraptions that look like tiny hammocks to brightly colored foam mats. They all serve a common purpose: To keep your baby safe and supported in the tub (or sink) while you give them a wash.

One thing to keep in mind is that no matter how much you love your baby bath seat, it’s going to become obsolete in a year at most. That’s around the time your child will be able to sit up in the tub on their own, so keep that in mind when you’re determining how much you want to spend.

On the higher end, baby bath seats can be fully contained, sloping seats that you can pour water into and use anywhere. They might even include spray nozzles and temperature monitors to ensure that the water doesn’t get too hot. These are all very helpful, but they usually mean that the tub will be harder to store when not in use.

More common are bath seats that function as a sling. These usually have a mesh backing stretched across a frame, and they are as versatile as they are portable. You can typically break it down for easy storage, and you can use it as long as baby can still fit inside the frame. Some sensitive infants might not enjoy the feel of the mesh against their skin, but parents can always cover it with a cloth or sheet as long as it doesn’t cause the baby to slip around.

Another option is a baby bath mat, which is essentially a large piece of waterproof or water-absorbent foam. These are mainly shaped into colorful flowers or characters to keep baby’s attention, and they’re easy enough to fold up or hang from the showerhead after use. They’re great for the sink since you can just use them as a protective lining and plop baby inside. They allow a bit more freedom of movement, which makes them best for older children.

No matter what kind you buy, look for products that meet standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. You can also check the CPSC website for recalls on bath seats and other baby products.

The use of a bath seat shouldn’t be a substitute for proper safety precautions. Even if your baby seems comfortable, you should never leave them unattended in the bath seat or in the bathtub in general. You also may want to watch the placement of the bath spout, which can be easy for mobile children to bump their head on. Consider placing the bath seat at a distance from the spout and using a washcloth, or soften the spout with a protective cover (available at most children’s stores).