Introduction
Since December 2025, NF EN 17826 has set enhanced chemical requirements for childcare articles, including baby bathtubs (source: economie.gouv.fr, DGCCRF, notice of March 9, 2025, published in the JORF). At the same time, regulations on BPA have been strengthened since January 2025. Here is what is changing in practical terms.
1. EN 17072: what is it?
A European standard specifically for infant bathtubs. It covers:
- Structural resistance: the bathtub must support an infant’s weight without deforming
- Stability: no tipping under normal conditions of use
- No sharp edges or mechanically hazardous parts
- Migration of chemical substances from the tub material
The tests are carried out by accredited organizations (Intertek, Bureau Veritas). An EN 17072-certified bathtub has undergone actual physical testing in an independent laboratory — this is the fundamental difference from simple self-declared CE marking.
Our Treelys foldable baby bathtub with stand is EN 17072 certified by Intertek and tested by Eurofins: foldable bathtub with stand
2. NF EN 17826 (December 2025): the new chemical requirements
Published in December 2025, it sets enhanced chemical requirements for childcare articles that come into contact with a child’s body:
- Formaldehyde: the maximum level has been lowered and extended to more materials, including bathtub coatings
- SVHC substances (Substances of Very High Concern, ECHA list): every childcare article must be checked against the updated list
- Azo dyes: restrictions extended to synthetic materials in prolonged contact with the skin
For parents buying a baby bathtub in 2026: check that the product was tested after December 2025 to ensure its compliance.
3. BPA regulations in 2026
Regulation (EU) 2024/3190, in force since January 20, 2025, with a transition period until July 20, 2026, bans BPA and certain bisphenols in food-contact materials.
Important point: some manufacturers promote BPA-free products without specifying whether substitute bisphenols (BPS, BPF) have been tested for and excluded. Only OEKO-TEX certification or an accredited test report covering all identified bisphenols can confirm this.
4. Bath thermometers: specific regulations
Baby bath thermometers are subject to the European Measuring Instruments Directive (MID 2014/32/EU). A digital thermometer integrated into a bathtub must display a reliable temperature accurate to within ±0.5°C. Check that the thermometer has been tested for accuracy.
5. Accidents involving baby bathtubs: official figures
Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children under 5 in France (NOYADES survey, Santé Publique France). Domestic bathtubs account for 15% of drownings among babies under 1 year old. In summer 2025, the total number of drownings in France increased by 14% compared with 2024 (source: Assurance Prévention, Santé Publique France 2025).
Essential safety rules:
- Water temperature: 37°C (a thermometer is mandatory)
- Never leave a baby alone in the bath, even for a second
- Empty the bathtub immediately after each use
- No bath seat or bath ring replaces active supervision
Complete guide to bathing: Baby Bath Time: Complete Guide to a Safe, Stimulating, and Peaceful Bath
Conclusion
In 2026, regulatory requirements for baby bathtubs are stricter than ever. Before making a purchase, require documented certifications. Comparative buying guide: How to Choose a Baby Bathtub: Complete Comparison (Freestanding, Foldable, Classic) 2026
