The washPOD is very similar to the TummyTub, and just like the TummyTub, it says it’s excellent for premature and colicky babies. The biggest difference has to be that the washPOD comes with a soft foam insert that sits in the bottom, so your baby has a bit of padding. The washPod also has a one side higher than the other (37cm compared to 30cm). Presumably, this means the back of your baby’s head could rest against the side whilst your baby’s face remains a little more visible over the rim.
The Prince Lionheart washPOD has two water level stickers on the side, to help you fill it correctly.
Our tester mum Sally tried it out with her baby boy Milo, 9 weeks.
What we love
The Prince Lionheart washPOD feels stable, with the base being as wide as the top. It stands well when filled.
The moulded handles are a nice size and have a smooth curve, so it’s easy to lift.
The padded foam insert is a nice addition and does make you feel like it offers more comfort for small bottoms than a hard plastic base.
It’s a little easier to store than a traditional baby bath because it’s not long, but compact and squat. It’s probably best compared to a large bucket. However, it’s still not able to reduce in size in anyway – the size you see is the size it will stay.
What to watch out for
Sally didn’t find the washPOD easy to use at all.
Firstly, while the washPOD is recommended for premmie babies, newborns and babies under 6 month, baby Milo – at 9 weeks of age – didn’t have the neck control to comfortable hold his head while being washed. Mum Sally was worried he would bang his head against the washPOD’s sides, and couldn’t imagine using it with an even younger baby.
Secondly, when Milo’s feet touch a solid surface, he tries to push against it. This “jumping up” made it tough for Sally to hang onto him and wash him at the same time.
Washing baby Milo’s hair was also considerable more difficult in the sitting/foetal position, because he couldn’t be made to lie back, as can be done in a traditional baby bath.
In terms of style, our tester mum Sally compared it to an orange builder’s bucket! You’ll either love the bold, bright hue and striking shape, or feel it’s a glorified tub. It does come in a pale blue and white, though, if it’s the colour that bothers you.
Who is the Prince Lionheart washPOD best for?
Mums after a short-term bathing solution that offers a womb-like cosiness.
The Prince Lionheart washPOD offers a way to immerse your baby deep in water for a womb-like bath time. While some mums and babies will love this experience, others will find it’s awkward to use with babies lacking neck control.
