Why the Right Bath Seat Makes All the Difference

Bath time can be a joyful and bonding experience for families. But for children with disabilities - especially those with postural needs - it can also be a time of stress, discomfort, or even risk.

Standard bathtubs and shower chairs rarely meet the needs of children with reduced head and trunk control, altered muscle tone, developmental delays, or conditions like cerebral palsy. Without appropriate and comfortable support, children may struggle to sit upright or become fatigued which further increases their sensory dysregulation and postural control - turning a daily routine into a challenging task for both child and caregiver.

That’s why choosing the right adaptive bath seat is essential.

What to Look for in a Paediatric Bath Seat

When choosing the best bathing seat for a child with additional needs, consider these key features:

● Postural Support: Adjustable backrest and hip straps to keep the child upright and safe

● Position: Seat base positioned low in the water to get all the benefits of hydrotherapy

● Comfort: Soft-touch materials that feel warm to the skin and reduce pressure points

● Adaptability: Works in a standard bathtub, shower tray, or even paddling pool

● Ease of Use: Lightweight, quick to dry, easy to clean and store

● Portability: Easy to dry, fold up and take anywhere

Top Choice for Parents: The Firefly Splashy

The Splashy by Firefly is widely considered one of the best bath seats for disabled children - designed not just for safety, but also for fun and freedom.

What Makes Splashy Special?

● Adjustable backrest reclines for children who need extra head or trunk support

● 5-point harness that converts to a 3-point as your child gains control

● Portable and modular - take it to the beach, paddling pool, or on holiday

● Non-slip foam base keeps it secure in the tub

● Suitable from ages 1 up to 16 years with the larger Splashy Big size

What Parents are saying

"Our new Splashy arrived today and I can’t tell you how thrilled we are. It’s better than we imagined. So much lighter than her other one, and so much more supportive (and it’s cute - I really love when we can find children’s medical equipment that actually looks like it’s made for kids). "

Shannen, parent, US.

Other Options and When to Use Them

For children with higher physical support needs, or for use in care settings, you might also explore:

● Tilt-in-space shower chairs - for shared use in hospital settings

● Wall-mounted bathing seats - less portable, but useful in permanent care environments

However, for home use - especially when independence, fun, and portability matter - the Splashy stands out.

How to Choose the Right Bath Chair for Your Child

Every child’s needs are unique. Ask yourself:

● Does my child need full trunk and head support?

● Will I use this seat only at home - or while traveling?

● Do I want something I can quickly store or dry?

You can also consult your child’s occupational or physical therapist or contact Firefly for advice on what’s best for your situation.

Final Thoughts: Make Bath Time a Joyful Routine Again

Bath time should be safe, stress-free, and fun - not a challenge. With the right bathing support, children with disabilities can participate more fully in daily routines, gain sensory and motor benefits, and feel more independent.

That’s why families and therapists around the world trust Splashy as their go-to solution for safe paediatric bathing.

✅ Learn more about Splashy and shop now
✅ Speak to your therapist about suitability
✅ Contact us for fitting advice or funding options