There are lots of options for baby swimwear, so it can be hard to know which outfit to choose for your little ones. This guide goes back to basics, to help you decide which swimwear option is best for your baby or toddler.
In this guide we will:
- show what options are available by different age groups
- guide you through the most important things to look for in swimwear, by different ages
- take a look at swim nappies and give advice on which ones are best for your child
- explain the options available for children’s outdoor swimwear
We cover Baby Boy Swimwear Styles here
We cover Baby Girls Swimwear styles here
(We cover unisex styles in both of the guides above as well!)
If you’re not sure what size of swimwear is best for your baby, use our baby and toddler swimwear size guide as a reference. Click on the links below to find advice and suggestions for the best baby boy and girl swimwear for your baby’s age group:
0–3 months
3–6 months
6–9 months and 9–12 months
12–18 months
All children from 0-18 months need a reusable or disposable swim nappy
Swim nappies are an essential piece of swimwear and any child who isn’t potty-trained will need to wear one in a swimming pool. They are enforced as part of the double-layer nappy system requirement by most organised baby swimming lessons.
There are two types of swim nappies available:
- Disposable swim nappies
- Reusable swim nappies
The Happy Nappy from Splash About is a reusable swim nappy with thick, soft cuffs that create a seal around your baby’s thighs and tummy to prevent any faeces from escaping. The unique design features a gusset to allow for a full range of movement, without the risk of leaks.
The Happy Nappy Duo offers the same reliable leak protection as the Happy Nappy, with the added benefit of a silver lined layer that acts as a 2nd nappy, insisted upon by swim schools. This silver lining kills germs before they leave the nappy, protecting your baby and other swimmers from pathogens leaking into the pool. Both the Happy Nappy and the Happy Nappy Duo are accepted and endorsed by UK Swim Schools.
You can view the Happy Nappy range here.
Best baby swimwear for babies aged 0–3 months
The most important factors to consider for taking babies aged 0–3 months swimming are:
- Warmth—tiny babies can feel the cold easily, so you’ll want to prioritise swimwear that helps keep them warm. Check the temperature of your local pool before you go. For a baby aged 0–3 months, the pool should be heated to above 30°C.
- Skin sensitivity—newborn babies often have sensitive skin, which can be irritated by chlorine. If your baby has a skin condition such as eczema, choose baby swimwear that will help keep their barrier cream in place.
Newborn Baby Swimming Top Tip:
Check the temperature of your local pool before you go. For a baby aged 0–3 months, the pool should be heated to above 30°C.
Babies aged 0–3 months tire very quickly so it’s unlikely you’ll be spending more than 10–15 minutes in the pool. Even though they won’t be in the pool for long, it’s important they wear the right swimwear so they’re as comfortable as possible.
What swimwear do you need for a baby aged 0–3 months?
Babies aged 0–3 months will need the following before they go swimming: