Plastic-Free Bath Time: Simple Toys and Calm Water Play

Bath time can be one of the loveliest parts of a young child's day: warm water, splashing, songs and a calm wind-down before bed. But the bath is also where many families find their least favourite toys: plastic squeezy animals that trap water inside and grow mould, and a growing pile of brightly coloured bits that never quite dry.

This guide looks at simple, plastic-free alternatives and ideas for calm water play. Always supervise babies and young children in the bath at all times, even for a moment. Never leave a child alone in or near water.

Why bath toys get mouldy

Many squeezy bath toys have a small hole that lets water in. That water cannot drain or dry fully, so mould and bacteria can grow inside. In Malta's humid climate, especially in winter, toys can take a long time to dry. Many parents have squeezed a toy and been dismayed at what came out.

Look for toys without holes

Choose bath toys that are solid, sealed or easy to open and clean. Some natural rubber bath toys are made without holes, or in two parts that can be separated and dried.

Simple bath toys that work

• Nesting cups for pouring and stacking
• A small jug or watering can
• A natural sponge
• Solid natural rubber animals without holes
• A small metal or wooden boat (dried well after use)
• A sieve or a cup with holes
• A washcloth for peekaboo

You do not need many. Three or four bath toys, rotated now and then, are plenty.

Pouring and filling

Pouring water from cup to cup, filling a jug and watching water run through a sieve are fascinating for toddlers. These activities build the hand control described in our guide to fine motor skills and satisfy the urge to transport and fill explored in our article on play schemas.

Floating and sinking

Older toddlers enjoy testing what floats and what sinks. Try a cork, a spoon, a sponge and a small wooden block. Talk about what happens. It is early science in the bath.

Songs and stories

Bath time is a natural time for songs and rhymes. Row, row, row your boat, five little ducks and songs in Maltese or any home language make bath time playful. Our article on raising a bilingual toddler suggests using particular routines for particular languages.

A calm bath before bed

A warm bath can be a calming part of a bedtime routine. Dim the lights, keep play gentle and avoid exciting games. Follow it with pyjamas, a book and bed. Our article on a screen-free bedtime routine explains more.

Bath time without the bath

Water play does not have to happen in the bath. A basin on a towel, on the balcony in summer or the kitchen floor in winter, offers the same fun. Our articles on summer outdoor play and sensory play for one year olds have more ideas.

Saving water

Water is precious in Malta. A shallow bath is plenty for little ones. Some families share bath water between siblings, or use leftover bath water for balcony plants, as long as only gentle products were used.

Keeping toys clean

• Rinse toys in clean water after each bath
• Shake out excess water
• Dry toys on a rack or in a mesh bag
• Air them in the sun from time to time
• Check regularly for mould and replace if needed

Wooden toys should not be left soaking. Our guide to cleaning wooden toys in Malta's humidity has more tips.

Gentle products

Many parents choose gentle, fragrance-free bath products for babies and young children. If your child has sensitive skin or eczema, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

A lovely gift

A small set of plastic-free bath toys, a soft hooded towel and a natural sponge make a lovely gift for a new baby or first birthday. See our baby shower gift ideas and gifts for new parents.

Bath time for babies

For very young babies, bath time is mostly about warm water, gentle handling and your voice. Toys are not needed at first. Singing, talking and making eye contact are the best entertainment. As your baby grows and can sit with support, a cup to pour water over their tummy or a washcloth to hold can be introduced.

Keep it calm

Bath time does not need to be a big production. Some evenings, a quick wash and a song is enough. On others, a longer, playful bath is a lovely way to end the day. Follow your child's mood, keep the water shallow and warm, and enjoy the moment together.

Little Curio is curating plastic-free bath and water toys for families in Malta; see what is coming.