Rub-a-dub-dub...! (Mamas & Papas Acqua Two Stage Ergo Bath)

Member Name: sambam000

Product:	Mamas & Papas Acqua Two Stage Ergo Bath
Date:	29/06/09 (147 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Safer to use, neutral colour.

Disadvantages: Can be restrictive.

I wasn't sure what method of bathing to opt for for my baby...in the main bath with a supporting seat/float?, or a separate baby bath? I quickly figured I would be best to buy a separate baby bath, as this would require the use of a smaller amount of water & could be positioned in baby's nursery or wherever was easiest.

OK, so that narrowed it down a bit. But then did I want an inflatable or folding bath which would store easily & be handy to take away, or one that positioned across the bath to give a bit of height, or one that went on a stand...? As usual, with all things baby, the choice was endless...

I finally decided on the Mamas & Papas Acqua Ergo bath, which is shaped to provide two integral support positions for both newborns and sitting babies. Described by M&P as 'An innovative and ergonomically designed bath which will accommodate your growing baby'. I felt this would be much easier & safer, especially with a slippery newborn! Also, the bath has won 2 awards (Practical Parenting magazine Best Buy & Pregnancy & Birth magazine Editor's Choice 2007)...so it must be good, right?!

One end of the bath features a gently sloping back with side supports & a raised support which sits between the legs. This keeps newborns nice & safe, but the downside I found was that it was hard to wash baby's bottom with the support being in the way. The other end of the bath features a chunkier support between baby's legs, & a straighter back so that they can sit upright.

My son is still not able to sit unaided, so I'm still bathing him at the 'newborn end' of the bath, but as he enjoys his bath more & more he wants to kick about in the water & this becomes difficult with the support being in the way. However, considering that I usually have to handle bath time on my own, then this bath is a safer option for me.

Other features of the bath are 2 ledges for soap/shampoo etc, & a plug. Personally I feel a plug on a baby bath is rather pointless as it's much easier just to tip the water out into the bath or sink.

Other useful details: Weight 1.8kg, Dimensions: H: 26 x W: 93 x D: 54cm approx.

The bath is a neutral ivory colour (another reason for choosing it), & currently retails for £22 (was only £20 when I bought mine a few months ago). The bath is currently (@ June 09) on a 3 for 2 offer at M&P, along with other bathing products.

Overall, the bath is a good idea, but if you feel confident in bathing your newborn (or have someone to help), I would suggest buying a plain & simple bath (& perhaps adding a removable support bought seperately).

Summary: Decide how you'll be using the bath before deciding which one to buy