New bath toys enrich learning, entertainment

Educational bath toys in letter and number motifs are gaining traction. Models with upgraded audio and light functions are also offered.

TOP TRENDS

• Educational & developmental models: To promote basic reading and arithmetic, the latest bath playthings are printed with or come in the shape of letters and numbers. Products can also adopt silicone portions that double as teethers. These help exercise mouth muscles.
  
• Added audio options: Because songs are said to help calm down babies, many suppliers are updating current musical ICs to support more than two sound files. Users may even choose between single-tune and looped playing modes.
  
• Improved appearance: Recent models feature flashing LEDs with at least three color changes rather than the conventional single-hue option. Such units can feature a spinning function that enhances the visual effect. Several sensor-activated versions light up only when immersed in water.
  
• Nontoxic & environment-friendly materials: PVC that is free of phthalates said to affect hormone levels and metabolic processes is widely utilized. Makers also employ ecologically safe soft vinyl, EVA and rubber. The last, however, produces more wastage during fabrication.
  

PRODUCT GALLERY

Fuqing Shengde Plastic & Rubber Products Co. Ltd
Model: SDE014-003
Description: EVA foam; silk-screened; environment-friendly; nontoxic

Hongfei Plastic Product (Hongkong) Ltd
Model: 1
Description: EVA; nontoxic; water-resistant; 10x15cm; custom logos

JTB International Enterprise HK Co. Ltd
Model: Toys-7-2
Description: Vinyl, PVC; may have LED; environment-friendly; in various animal, holiday or sports designs; EN 71, ASTM

Shenzhen Dianman Toys Co. Ltd
Model: DMIM119549
Description: Phthalate-free PVC; squeaker; for 1 month old and above; 77x20x100mm; 25.5g; EN 71, ASTM

Shenzhen Jinlongxin Plastic Co. Ltd
Model: JlX1017-B
Description: PVC; flashes red, yellow, blue in water; in various animal shapes; 7.2x6.2x4cm; EN 71

Shenzhen Xiang Xin Mao Yuan Electronics & Technology Co. Ltd
Model: 2029B
Description: PVC; 3-color LED flashes in water; three rechargeable AAA batteries