When it comes to making bath time something little ones actually look forward to, picking out the right bath toys can make all the difference. Whether you’re shopping for your own kids, a grandchild, or searching for a thoughtful gift for a young family, there’s a world of options designed to turn the tub into a place of giggles and imagination. The best bath toys aren’t just about keeping kids entertained while you scrub behind their ears—they can help build hand-eye coordination, spark creativity, and even sneak in a little learning. For babies and toddlers, simple floating toys and classic squirters are always a hit, with their bright colors and friendly shapes floating along the bubbles. Older kids might get a kick out of water wheels, gears, or marble runs that stick to the wall and let them experiment with cause and effect, building tracks and watching water and balls race down. There are even light-up toys that glow when they hit the water, turning an ordinary soak into a magical experience, especially fun during the long winter evenings when it gets dark early.
If you’ve got a budding artist in the house, bath crayons are a great pick—let them doodle all over the tub walls, knowing it’ll all wash away when the water drains. Sensory seekers love crackling or fizzy bath toys, which make the water pop and fizz for a unique experience that’s both fun and soothing. For kids with a head for learning, bath toys that feature letters, numbers, or shapes can turn tub time into an opportunity to practice spelling or counting, all while splashing around. For families who value easy cleanup, look for mold-free toys—those with no hidden holes or that come apart easily for drying—so you can keep playtime safe and sanitary. And don’t overlook the simple joy of cups, jugs, and colanders for pouring, scooping, and experimenting with water flow. These basics often turn into the most-used toys in the tub, letting kids pretend they’re cooking, pouring tea, or building rivers and waterfalls. With December’s chill settling in, bath time can be a cozy, warm break from the cold, and a tub full of fun bath toys makes it something everyone can look forward to after a day spent outside.
Bath toys also make a thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, or baby showers, especially for families with toddlers or young children. They’re practical, easy to wrap, and almost always get used—unlike some toys that end up forgotten in the back of the closet. If you’re shopping for a family with multiple kids, look for sets that encourage sharing and group play, like connectable suction toys or building sets. And for those who love to keep the fun going outside the bathroom, you might want to check out our selection of
Outdoor Play Toys for more ways to keep kids active and engaged, rain or shine. No matter the age or interest, there’s a bath toy out there to make every soak a little more special, helping kids wind down, clean up, and use their imagination—all at the same time.
