Baby Bath
Bath time is much more than just ridding the body of dirt or sweat. It is a precious time for the baby to connect with parents and vice versa. Baby also connects with the world in its essence by being in touch with water, the element of life.
Choosing the right baby bath can be tricky now, since many different units have flooded the market and not all of these contribute to the parent/baby bond or provide a safe environment to bathe and care for the baby.
The best baths in the market today where real demand & margin potential exists for the retailer should have the following features:
Safety
A sturdy build is important, as is strong footing or feet to keep the tub stable in wet environments. Additional features, such as safety straps and/or snaps in order to secure any movable pieces are relevant too, and of course, the compliance with the latest safety regulations on children’s products.
Comfort
Good baths should always take into consideration both parents and babies. The intimate nature of baby bath time makes design very important since it allows for a longer, relaxed and special time for both baby and parent. Ample size for a baby to safely fit, bathe and play is crucial; you want to make sure it fits a baby of up to 30 lbs. The position in which the parent will be bathing the baby is worth mentioning too, since good baths should address the needs of both parents & babies. Some baths require for parents to kneel, other baths include a stand, which allow for parents to bathe baby at waist level and not bend their backs, which provides ultimate comfort.
Convenience
Some baths in the market provide parents with additional features such as a whirlpool or small shower. These could be good to have as long as they are not cumbersome. Also, look for those baths that come with space to keep baby essentials organized and kept nearby/stored in conjunction with the bath so that parents can remain nearby the whole time by having everything handy. Bathing device storage is meaningful to many parents, there are many baths in the market now that fold for storage and are easy to stow away, a good option for parents that have limited space in their homes.
Bath varieties are:
Plain/Basic Bathtub that Parents Can Place on Any Flat Surface, High or Low
Some have a drain to let the water out but most of them need to be emptied by picking it up and dumping the water out. Retailers need to be aware of the bottom surface and make sure its made with some sort of non-slippery material. Also, shape and size will be important to make sure a baby up to 18 months will be comfortable. These bathtubs are usually made out of hard plastic and in some cases they are inflatable.
More Sophisticated Baths with Additional Features
Baths that include a whirlpool/spa, shower or bather included. Some of these don’t fold for storage due to the extra features.
Bathinettes (Bath and Changer Combos)
These are very comfortable since the bathtub sits on a stand that includes a changer top. They accommodate the needs of both parents & baby and make it especially easier for moms with c-section or back problems. These also provide room for parents to store baby bath essentials.
Other things to consider:
Attractive Packaging is Important
Ideally the box should display the product so people can buy off of the box if needed. That way, retailers wont have to display the item out of the box in all cases.
Carrying Smart, Well-Selected Accessories
Accessories that better or complement the experience might drive people to shop for a higher dollar amount.
Some Bath accessories are:
- Educational Toys
- Organic Toiletries
- Multi-Functional Towels
- Bath Cradles
- Bathers
Bath time is a very special time and many manufacturers and retailers have forgotten this in the rush to offer cheap, simple bath options. Many new products on the market are bringing back the warm intimate nature of baby bath time along with the most important features. The retailer that embraces the principles of safety, comfort and convenience while always thinking about the true meaning of this millenary ritual will succeed.