Investments in childcare can generate immense economic and social benefits through increased female labor force participation and improved child development outcomes. However, high quality childcare options in Bangladesh are limited and available options are unaffordable for the urban poor. This paper examines the needs, preferences, and practices pertaining to childcare among parents and care providers for low-income households in urban Bangladesh. On the demand side, this paper finds that rapid urbanization along with a decrease in multigenerational households are increasing the demand for childcare services. Perceptions of child safety and the potential for child development are the two main factors driving the choice of care provider. However, knowledge of childcare best practices is limited among the urban poor, resulting in risky childcare practices at home. On the supply side, there is a severe gap in care provision, limiting access for the urban poor. The lack of sustainable financing is a major challenge for affordable care provision in Bangladesh. The absence of a regulatory framework and minimum standards for childcare has led to significant variations in the quality of care.