Getting kids into the bathtub can sometimes feel like a wrestling match. My toddler used to scream every time I brought out the shampoo bottle until I started looking for cheap ways to make bath time fun.
I picked up these little octopus sponge toys on AliExpress to see if they could change the mood. This Baby Bath Toys Sponge Water Absorbing Octopus Squeezing Stress Relief Toys Summer Swimming Play Water Bath Toy for Children review covers whether these cheap sponges are actually worth the wait.
What are these octopus bath toys?
These are essentially soft, foam sponges shaped like little octopuses. They are designed to soak up water, which makes them heavy and fun for kids to squeeze over their heads while in the tub.
The main draw is the price, as they are very budget-friendly. Plus, most sellers offer free shipping, which is great when you are just buying a small item and don't want to pay extra for delivery.
How they work in the bathtub
These sponges are simple, which is why they work well for younger kids. When you dunk the octopus into the water, it expands as it fills up.
My son loves to squeeze the water out and watch it rain down on his toys. They are also soft enough that there is no risk of him getting hurt if he throws one across the room, which happens a lot in our house.
Honest pros and cons
Buying stuff from overseas sites comes with some realities you need to know. Here is the honest breakdown of my experience.
- Pros:
- The price is hard to beat for a simple toy.
- Free shipping is standard with most listings.
- They are lightweight and easy for little hands to grip.
- The material is soft and safe for splashing.
- Cons:
- Shipping takes a long time, often a few weeks.
- The colors might look different in person than on the screen.
- Sponges can trap mold if you do not squeeze them dry after every use.
- There is no local warranty if the item arrives damaged.
Who should buy these sponges?
These are perfect for parents who have a tight budget and want a quick fix for bath time tears. If your child is at the age where they love sensory play and splashing, they will probably enjoy these quite a bit.
You should skip these if you are in a hurry. If you need a birthday gift by next week, these are not the right choice because the shipping from AliExpress takes way too long.
What other parents are saying
I checked a few forums to see if other people had the same experience as me. Most parents seem to agree that these are a decent deal for the price.
One parent mentioned that their child uses them as a stress relief toy outside of the bath too. Another person noted that while they are small, they are surprisingly durable as long as you keep them clean.
Final verdict
If you have a couple of dollars to spare and don't mind waiting for the mail, these octopus sponges are a fun addition to your tub. They aren't going to last forever, but for the cost, they offer plenty of entertainment for a toddler.
Just remember to squeeze all the water out after every bath to keep them from getting gross. If you can handle the long shipping time, this is a solid purchase for any parent.
