The iconic 'baby challenge' returns on Love Island UK in the episode airing Wednesday, July 31, testing the Islanders’ parenting instincts and compatibility.
In this long-standing tradition, each couple is given a lifelike doll that mimics the behavior of a real infant, requiring constant attention throughout the day.
The task puts their patience, teamwork, and communication skills to the test. For some couples, the experience fosters deeper emotional conversations and even leads to relationship milestones. For others, it triggers disagreements about their future beyond the villa, including conflicting views on having children.
This year's Love Island UK baby challenge is already stirring conversation. One male Islander asks his partner,
“Does this make you want to have a baby with me? That’s exactly what I feel like now.”
But the challenge also sparks tension in another couple, as one Islander confronts his partner, saying,
“I’m definitely someone who would want kids somewhere down the line. It’s very apparent you don’t want kids,”
To which she replies that she has never had the desire to have a family.
Inside the 'baby challenge' on Love Island UK
In the July 31 episode of Love Island UK, the Islanders are greeted by six new “babies”, dolls designed to cry, need attention, and simulate real-life infant behavior. The challenge forces each couple to co-parent their assigned baby for the duration of the day. As usual, the task leads to a mix of chaos, bonding, and introspection.
Some Islanders embrace the task wholeheartedly. One couple is shown having a conversation about the experience, with the boy expressing that the challenge makes him feel like he wants to have a baby with his partner. The episode reveals that for this pair, the challenge creates a sense of connection and shared purpose.
However, for another couple, the baby challenge uncovers underlying issues. One of the boys initiates a serious discussion with his partner, expressing that he definitely sees himself wanting kids in the future, while acknowledging that it’s clear she does not share the same desire. His partner’s response is definitive,
“Not at any age. I've never had the desire to have a family.”
While some couples struggle, the challenge becomes an unexpected catalyst for another pair to take their relationship to the next level. During a moment on the terrace, one Islander reflects on their journey and says,
“I really do enjoy spending time with you. I do really see a future with you.” He continues, “I’ve never got on with anyone this well.”
His partner replies, “Me neither.” They agree, “It’s only right we make this exclusive,” becoming the third couple in the villa to make their relationship official.
Love Island UK has a history of iconic baby challenge moments. In 2017, Chris Hughes and Olivia Attwood formed a bond with their doll, naming it “Cash.” In 2019, Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury shared the parenting task, and years later, welcomed a real child together in 2023.
What else can you expect from the July 31 episode
The July 31 episode of Love Island UK features more than just the baby challenge. Before the arrival of the dolls, the talent show continues with Islanders putting on individual performances. Conor and Megan perform a duet inspired by High School Musical, while Shakira sings A Whole New World.
Jamie delivers a motivational speech. Meanwhile, Harry performs a juggling act dressed as a clown, and Toni shows off her Las Vegas hostess skills, handing out drinks with pointed remarks. Toni says to Cach,
“This isn’t the only way I can serve you, hunny.”
To Megan, she raises a toast, saying, “Cheers to unfinished business,” and warns Helena,
“Can’t over-serve you, you’ll take my man to the Hideaway.” She later addresses the group: “Cheers to all of us for an amazing season…like no other.”
After the talent show, the Islanders face a major elimination. It is announced that the public has been voting for their favourite couple, and the couple with the fewest votes will be dumped from the island. Shortly after, another text confirms which couple will be leaving the villa.
Fans can stream Love Island UK on ITVx.