Bathtime Checklist: What To Add To Your Baby Registry

You may take your daily shower for granted, but when baby’s getting the scrub-a-dub-dub, you’ll need to plan more with the right tub, bath accessories, toys, and towels. On top of that, since NYC apartments are so small, whatever you choose, you’re going to want to keep it compact. 

In this article,we’ll tell you what to have on your bathtime checklist to keep your bub squeaky clean. 

TLDR

Your bathtime registry comes down to five essentials — a tub sized for your space, gentle tear-free wash, washcloths, a towel, and a way to check water temp — plus a short list of extras (non-slip mat, protectors, rinse cup, toys) that make bath time easier. In a NYC apartment, weight everything toward compact, fold-flat, or hangable so your bathroom doesn't disappear under baby gear.

Table of Contents

• Bathe Checklist

• Shop the Edit

Bathe Checklist

Here are the key things you need for the bathe section of your registry. Let’s dive in.

Tub

The anchor of what you’ll need for your bathtime checklist is of course the tub. There are lots of tubs out there: from compact and foldable tubs and reclined seats, to infant-only sink tubs. Check out our Which Tub First, A Sink-Ready Infant Tub or Infant-to-Toddler Tub, and NYC Bathtime Buying Guide. 

Baby wash/shampoo (tear free, fragrance free)

To wash baby’s hair and body you’ll also need some gentle shampoo or body wash. Be sure it’s tear free and fragrance free. Best to opt for formulas that have the safest most natural ingredients.

Washcloths

You’ll need four to six soft washcloths for gently washing your little one, as well. 

Towel

For après-bath, you’ll want to wrap your baby in a soft, fluffy towel. Although a regular one works fine, you could also consider a couple extra cute hooded versions. Read our article on Regular Towel vs. Hooded Towel.

Bath thermometer

It’s important to have essentials like a bath thermometer on hand to ensure that your baby’s bath is not too hot. This is even more important if you’re in a pre-war building where water heaters run hotter or less predictably than newer construction. 

Non-slip Mat (if in adult tub)

If you are using an adult tub, be sure to get a non-slip mat to keep everyone safe. Cramped, tiled NYC bathrooms can get slippery, as can large slab marble showers if that ends up being baby’s bathing space. 

Knee and Arm Protectors

These are for you — soft padded foam kneeler so you don’t get uncomfortable kneeling by the tub. And, as you are leaning over the wall of the tub, one placed on the side of the tub can help save your forearms and elbows.

Faucet Protectors

You don’t want anyone bumping their head on the metal faucet of the tub. A faucet protector can help to keep baby’s head safe. Babies can be pretty squirmy in the bath, so this will help avoid any bumps.

Rinse Cup for Hair

Once you’ve lathered up baby, you’ll need to rinse off the bubbles. Keeping a rinse cup on hand will help you gently clean your baby’s skin. 

Bath Toys

During the first days, bathing your baby just sticks to the script, but as they get older, you can add a bit of play to the affair. There are lots of different developmental bath toys that feature sensory activities. There are even some waterproof books to read!

Storage Note for Small Apartments: (fold flat tubs, hanging solutions)

For New Yorkers, it’s key to find a tub that can fit easily within your apartment, so keep an eye out for compact options that can either fold flat or hang from a hook. 

Shop the Edit

Ready to make a splash with the Bath section of your Registry? Shop our Bath Edit here. 

Bathtime with Babesta

With your bathtub, towels & washcloths, bath accessories and toys in hand you’ll be ready to give your little one their very first bath. It’s an exciting milestone, so enjoy it. 

Babesta offers all the best tubs and toys for city apartments, hand chosen for life in the Big Apple. You don’t have to lose your cool shopping for baby’s bath necessities. Babesta’s got your back.

Additional Reading

• Hooded Towel or Regular Towel: What do you Actually Need?
• Soft Infant Sink Tub or Infant-to-Toddler Tub: Which Do You Need First?
• How to Chose A Baby Tub for a NYC Apartment
• The Best Baby Bathtubs for NYC Apartments

Frequently Asked Questions 

How often should I bathe my newborn?

Newborns only need a bath two to three times a week. Daily bathing can dry out their sensitive skin. Sponge baths are enough between tub baths in the very early weeks.

When can my baby move from an infant tub to a regular tub?

Most babies are ready once they can sit unsupported, somewhere between 6 and 12 months depending on how quickly they hit that milestone. Pair the switch with a non-slip mat.

Do I need bath toys right away?

Not for the first few months. Early bathtime is more about the routine than play. Once baby can sit up and start reaching for things, toys add sensory value and make it more fun for both of you.  

How many towels and washcloths should I register for?

Plan on two to three towels and four to six washcloths so you’re never caught mid-bath doing laundry: especially useful in a NYC apartment where laundry runs aren’t a daily thing.

What water temperature is safe for baby’s bath?

Aim for comfortably warm, around 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and always test with your wrist or elbow rather than your hand. A bath thermometer takes the guesswork out entirely, which matters even more in older buildings where water heater output can run hot or inconsistent.