A fully waterproof toy opens up the bath and the shower — and, just as usefully, it’s far easier to clean, because you can rinse it properly without fretting about the electronics. It’s one of those features that quietly makes a toy nicer to live with.

Here are the fully waterproof toys we’d recommend, plus what “waterproof” actually means on a label.

Waterproof vs splash-proof

They’re not the same. “Splash-proof” survives a wipe or a light splash; “fully waterproof” (usually rated IPX7) can be submerged. Only fully waterproof toys are safe for bath or shower play — check the rating, which we list on the product.

The cleaning bonus

Even if you never take it near the bath, waterproof is worth having: you can rinse the whole toy under the tap with warm water and mild soap, rather than gingerly wiping around a battery cap.