Stay Safe in the Sun: The Importance of UV Clothes for Kids
It’s no secret that when the sun comes out, all parents breathe a collective sigh of relief that we can finally let our little ones let off steam outdoors. Finding activities to keep children entertained through the colder months without costing the earth is challenging.
The sun reappearing means picnics at the park, beach days, paddling pools, BBQs, outdoor swimming pools, holidays and days spent frolicking in the garden are finally here.
Vitamin D deficiency is common in the UK due to limited sunlight, so getting outside when the sun graces us with its presence is highly recommended. However, while the sun is great and has many benefits, it’s not without its risks.
Harmful UV rays can damage exposed skin, especially babies and children's delicate skin. That’s where UV clothes play a crucial role in protecting our little loved ones.
Designed to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It’s made from tightly woven fabrics with special coatings or treatments that block UV rays. The protection level is measured by Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), with UPF 50+ blocking 98% of UV rays, UPF 30-49 offering good protection, and anything below UPF 15 not being considered protective.
This type of clothing provides consistent sun protection without requiring frequent sunscreen application. It shields against UVB (burning rays) and UVA (ageing rays), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Many UV-protective garments are also lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, ensuring comfort while protecting the skin from sun damage.
Sun cream should be frequently applied to exposed skin. Babies, toddlers, and young children should have their sunscreen reapplied every 2 hours when they're outdoors. If they're swimming or sweating, it should be reapplied more frequently, ideally immediately after swimming or towel drying.
For babies under 6 months, avoiding direct sun exposure and using physical barriers like shade or clothing is best. Sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30) and broad-spectrum protection is recommended for toddlers and young children.
When choosing sunscreen for babies and young children, here are some key things to look for:
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A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 provides adequate protection against UVA and UVB rays.
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If your child will be swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen to ensure it stays on longer.
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For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are a great choice. These sunscreens sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays, making them less likely to irritate it.
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Avoid sunscreens with strong fragrances or harsh chemicals, as they can irritate, especially on sensitive skin.
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Look for sunscreens tested and approved by dermatologists or paediatricians, especially for babies under 6 months.
Splash About’s Range of UV Clothes for Kids
At Splash About, we stock a range of UV clothes ideal for pool fun, playing on holiday or in the garden. Made from high-quality UV material, they’re designed to withstand the vigors of child play and can be used time and time again until your child grows out of them.
Our UV Sun & Sea Suits are designed for active toddlers and offer comfort, warmth, and sun protection. Crafted from 1mm neoprene with soft polyester/elastane side panels, they provide flexibility for movement and have UPF 50+ protection across the neck, shoulders, and back.
These suits are perfect for beach and pool fun, keeping children warm in the water while shielding them from the sun, wind, and sand. A back zip ensures easy changes, even when wet.
We can’t claim our Rash Tops offer full UV protection due to their short sleeves. However, they are made from UPF50+ sun protection material, meaning the areas of your body covered by them are protected from the sun. Ideal for both playing in and around water, they protect from the sometimes irritating sand and water combo.
The lightweight design is breathable and designed to not weigh children down in the pool, unlike normal T-shirts. It is available in a range of fun designs for both girls and boys.
Our Legionnaire Hats are designed to provide superior sun protection for children during water activities. Crafted from lightweight, quick-drying materials, these hats are suitable for both in and out-of-water use.
The elasticated design ensures a snug fit, preventing the hat from slipping during play. Featuring a curved peak to shield the eyes and an extended fabric at the back to cover the neck, they help keep children cool and safeguarded from the sun's rays. These hats offer UPF 50+ sun protection, effectively preventing sunburn on sensitive areas.
These hats are offered in two sizes: 1-3 years (Small) and 3-6 years (Large), making them ideal for young children. They can be paired with matching UPF 50+ swimwear for coordinated sun protection.
As with the Rash Tops, due to the short sleeve length of this Floatsuit, we can not claim it offers full UV protection; however, it offers adequate sun protection when suncream is applied to exposed areas.
The UPF 50+ sun protection material helps protect skin from harmful UV rays, but this Floatsuit offers much more. It’s also a learn-to-swim aid designed to help children gain confidence and develop swimming skills.
It features a unique 16-piece adjustable buoyancy system that positions children correctly in the water and allows them to gradually remove floats as they become more proficient.
It's important to note that while the Floatsuit aids in buoyancy and swim learning, it is not a life-saving device and should be used under constant adult supervision. Additionally, it is not recommended for children under one year old, as they may lack the necessary balance and strength to support themselves in the water while wearing the Floatsuit.
At the end of the day, we all just want to keep our little ones safe while they run, splash, and explore under the sun. As parents, we know the joy of watching them play freely—but we also know the worry of protecting their delicate skin. While we can’t always control the weather or their boundless energy, we can make smart choices to keep them safe.
UV clothes takes the stress out of sun safety, giving you peace of mind while your child enjoys every moment of outdoor fun. Whether it’s a day at the beach, a holiday adventure, or just an afternoon in the garden, these simple choices can make all the difference.
So, let them run wild, build sandcastles, and make unforgettable memories—just with that extra layer of protection. For more information on our UV clothing, swimming aids, or swimming accessories, call us on 0845 528 0831 or 01472 236465.
