Every parent knows that bath time can be one of the most imaginative times of play, but you don’t need an arsenal of toddler bath toys to keep it interesting. We’ve rounded up a list of nine household items that can be used as toys in the bath. Move over, rubber duckie, it’s time for the egg beater to come and play.
Household Items That Can Be Used as Toys in the Bath
1. Colander. Every parent’s favorite kitchen item turned toy. Ideally, a plastic or silicon one, but even a metal one will do. Not only will they get a kick out of watching the water drain, but it’s like an impromptu shower, too.
2. Yogurt or sour cream container, with or without holes. Stacking cups are an essential toddler bath toy. Instead of purchasing a set, save a few small plastic containers for them to scoop and pour to their heart’s delight. You can up the game by poking holes in the bottom to make it like a mini-shower if you don’t want to use a colander.
3. Paintbrushes. Let them paint with water! Or, if you’re feeling inspired, buy some bathtub finger paint soap and let them create a masterpiece before rinsing clean.
4. A potato or vegetable scrubber. These usually float in the water, and you might even get them to scrub their nails. As a bonus, you can find all sorts of fun scrubbers these days: one that looks like a potato, one that looks like a gnome, or one that looks like a doll.
5. Turkey baster. This is one of the most fun household items that can be used as a toy in the bath. Think of it as a trigger-free squirt gun!
6. An egg beater. The old-fashioned hand-crank kind, best for older (4 and up) in the bath, let them crank it right through those foamy bubbles.
7. A sponge. Who knew life could be so easy as entertaining your kids with a household sponge? They can use it to wipe away their paintings, and you can use it to clean them up when it’s time to get out of the bath. Make sure you don’t use a normal kitchen sponge, though; look for something with natural fibers and gentle exfoliation.
8. An across-the-sink strainer. This is one of the most creative ways to use household items as toys in the bath. If you’ve got one, try stretching it across the tub both as a little shelf for play and as a clever way to let the toys dry.
9. Goggles or snorkel mask. It’s an ocean adventure every time they get in the bath! Plus, this is a great way to help toddlers be less timid about putting their faces in the water. Best for ages 3 and up.
