Decent toy food that you can 'chop' up. My daughter loved hers” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user BritInAus) Our verdict Toys that light up under the water are absolutely magical, particularly for children who feel a bit stressed in the bath or benefit from sensory toys. Age suitable from: 12 months to 5 years | Batteries required: 3x AAA batteries required What we love

Mine had special bath crayons they could draw on the side of the bath with.” (Type of toy suggested by Mumsnet user JustLikea) Our verdict Once they can be trusted not to put everything in their mouths, creative toys like bath crayons are a great buy. Do encourage them to keep their artwork to the sides of the bath though – crayon marks don't tend to come out of the grouting. While they are recommended for children aged three and over, Mumsnet users say that foam letters can also be a great way for younger toddlers to interact and learn in the water. The only downside? You’ll need somewhere to store them once bath time is over and, unlike some more expensive designs, this particular set doesn’t come with a net storage bag.For babies, the water offers them a multi-sensory experience where – when safely secured in a bath seat or tub – they can explore the temperature of the water, the sensation of the bubbles and the cause and effect of splashing. It’s also a great time to introduce colours and counting with toddlers and reciting their favourite nursery rhymes. Look out for recommendations - If you’re still not sure, ask for recommendations from friends, family or Mumsnetters with children of a similar age, chances are, their children will have played with many of the toys you’re considering too. Disclaimer: The information below is provided by various external sources and should be used as a guide only. Items that are not available in store will take 3-5 working days (excluding weekends and bank holidays) to be delivered to your nominated store. Happyland is brilliant. Really sturdy, chunky, toddler-proof toys! They are bright & colourful and cover a range of interests. We’ve got loads & my four-year-old still plays with them if I get them out for her little sister.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Zolla) Our verdict

With so many toys to choose from, finding the right to for an 18-month-old can be a little overwhelming.

Each pipe does something slightly different to keep their interest. If they’re popular, you can buy a couple of sets to expand the play and increase learning – they work particularly well with the Tomy Boon Cogs set. Age suitability - Products will usually have a minimum age recommendation, but you should also look out for products that are safe to use and appropriate for their age, including the CE mark. Give them a rinse and squeeze as much water as you can out of them after each bath, and then store them in a cool, dry place where they can drip-dry easily. Is it hard wearing? - 18-month-olds aren't always as gentle as they should be, so toys and play pieces need to be robust and be able to withstand some rough handling. Brand states suitable for 18 months to 5 years, however, you may find your child physically outgrows the car sooner than this.

Three flat-bottomed cones are designed to sit steadily on the sides of the bath, ready to add pretend sprinkles from the shaker that comes as part of the set. With curious minds, the best toys for 18-month-olds are able to capture and hold their attention; with engaging characters, bright colours or interactive features that allow them to ‘play pretend’ and replicate grown-up behaviours. Toys suitable for 18-month-olds tend to include large, chunky pieces that are easy for small hands to hold, allow them to use their imagination and can help them learn about cause and effect. This particular Happyland Cherry Lane Cottage set opens up to reveal two floors and a treehouse to explore, with characters, animals and accessories such as beds and chairs included. Kids will love the rabbit hidey-hole and the incorporated carry-along handle that allows them to take it with them as they move from room to room.

5. Best bath toy for role play: Tomy Toomies Foam Cone Factory

Our wooden train set has been a consistent favourite from about 18months and now at nearly 3. I envisage it'll still be a favourite for a couple of years yet!” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user WilmaJean) Whilst parents may curse the Toot-Toot songs and melodies when we find ourselves singing them in the shower, kids just can’t get enough of the Toot-Toot cars and vehicles. We think Nuby Foam Bath Letters and Numbers are the best bath toy currently available. Mumsnetters praise their versatility, affordability and their encouragement of interactive play. And they're educational too - win-win! How we chose our recommendations Recommendations from real parents

Whilst some bath toys can be used from birth, to get the most out of your bath toys, we recommend introducing them from around six months of age. Whilst all babies differ in terms of their development, at six months your baby is likely to be able to sit up (either unaided or with support) and have good head control. This allows them to really play and explore their surroundings – and is often the turning point for babies who are more reluctant bathers! Which bath toys are safe for babies?

What kind of toys do 18-month-olds like?

Our favourite toy for 18-month-olds is Happyland - tough, durable and super cute, it’s ideal for small hands to hold, whilst encouraging creativity, imagination and role play activities. It’s also a toy that can be played with for years and saved for future generations! How we chose our recommendations Recommendations from real Mumsnet users We had the Tomy Foam Cone Factory – great fun.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user livingthegoodlife) Our verdict