What swimwear do babies need? An age-by-age guide ...

There are lots of options for baby swimwear, so it can be hard to know which outfit to choose for your kids. This guide goes back to basics, to help you decide what swimwear option is best for your baby or toddler.

The company is the world’s best baby uv suit supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

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:

(We cover unisex styles in both of the guides above as well!)

explain the options available for children’s outdoor swimwear

take a look at swim nappies and give advice on which ones are best for your child

guide you through the most important things to look for in swimwear, by different ages

show what options are available by different age groups

In this guide we will:

All children from 0-18 months need a reusable or disposable swim diaper

Swim diapers are an essential piece of swimwear and any child who isn’t toilet-trained will need to wear one in a swimming pool. They are enforced as part of the double-layer diaper system requirement by most organised baby swimming lessons. 

There are two types of swim diaper available:

• Disposable swim diapers

  • Worn once and thrown away

  • Look like regular diapers but don’t swell up in water

  • Are not very effective at preventing faeces from entering the pool

• Reusable swim diapers

  • Can be washed and worn multiple times

  • Look like a pair of swimming shorts or are integrated into swimwear such as Happy Nappy™ Swimsuits or Happy Nappy™ Sunsuit

  • The Happy Nappy ™ provides excellent protection from fecal leaks and is mandatory in 99% of swim schools.

  • Reusable swim diapers have many advantages over disposable swim diapers. You can read more about the benefits of reusable swim diapers here

The Happy Nappy™ from Splash About is a reusable swim diaper with thick, soft cuffs that create a seal around your baby’s thighs and tummy to prevent any feces 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 diaper, insisted upon by swim schools. This silver lining kills germs before they leave the diaper, protecting your baby and other swimmers from pathogens leaking into the pool. Both the Happy Nappy™ and the Happy Nappy Duo™ swim diapers are accepted and endorsed by USA Swim Schools. 

You can view the Happy Nappy™ range here.

Why is sun-protective swimwear important?

Sun-protective swimwear keeps children safe while they enjoy summer fun in the sun. The sun's harmful UV rays can cause painful sunburns, and sun poisoning, and increase the risk of skin cancers later in life. Babies and toddlers have delicate skin that is more susceptible to sun damage.

Our collection of baby swimwear includes rash guards, one-piece sunsuits, sun hats, and swim sets that use high-quality, UPF 50+ rated fabric to offer maximum sun protection. The tight weave and breathable material shields sensitive skin from UV rays and keeps the body cool and comfortable during water activities.

Doctors recommend UV protection swimwear as part of a complete sun protection plan, along with shade, sunglasses, and regular sunscreen application. The right sun-protective swimwear gives parents peace of mind, knowing their babies have an extra layer of protection during long summer days.

Our sun-protective swimwear for babies and toddlers is a smart choice for parents who prioritize their baby's health and well-being during summer vacations and beyond. With many playful prints, adorable styles, and sizes, it's easy to find the perfect baby girl swimwear or baby boy swimsuit that keeps your little one safe and stylish all season long.

What is UPF?

Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) is a rating system that measures a fabric's ability to block UV rays from reaching the skin. UPF ratings range from 15 to 50+, with higher numbers indicating greater protection.

Fabrics with a UPF rating of 50+ block at least 98% of UV rays, while those with a rating of 30 block about 96.7%. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends choosing clothing with a UPF rating of 30 or higher for optimal sun protection.

Our collection of baby swimwear features UPF 50+ fabric, which offers the highest level of protection available. This tight-weave, 4-way stretch fabric allows less than 2% of UV radiation to pass through, significantly reducing the risk of sunburn and skin damage to your baby's delicate skin.

When shopping for baby or toddler swimsuits, look for items made with chlorine-resistant, recycled nylon or other soft materials that keep your baby comfortable and sun-safe. 

For more china fleece jacketinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Baby swimwear

In our collection of swimwear for babies, you’ll find:

• Baby girl rash guards
• Baby boy rash guards
• Rash guard sets
• Sunsuits
• Sun hats

Our baby swimwear comes in a wide range of sizes and styles—it is easy to find the perfect fit for your growing child.

Baby girl rash guards

Baby girl rash guards are a must-have for any beach vacay or pool outing, as they provide superior sun protection for your little one's sensitive skin. Available in different cute designs and colors, these rash guards will make your baby girl look adorable while keeping her safe from harmful UV rays. 

Baby boy rash guards

Baby boy rash guards are an essential piece of swimwear that no beach or pool bag should be without. These protective swim shirts are designed with your little guy's comfort and safety in mind. They feature cool designs and vibrant colors that he'll love wearing all summer long. 

With a snug, comfortable fit, and quick-drying fabric, baby boy one-piece rash guards offer a full, unrestricted range of motion, making them perfect for active toddlers who love to explore and play.

Rash guard sets for boys

In our boy's rash guard sets you’ll find long sleeve and short sleeve boy's rash guards with swim trunks and euro-style swim shorties.

Features of our boy's rash guards sets include:

• Full-length zipper for easy-on and easy-off
• Neck collar for extra sun protection
• Zipper garage for no chafing on the chin
• Zipper guard behind the zipper protects the skin from a hot zipper and rubbing
• Tagless neck for anti-itch comfort
• Big zipper pull makes it super easy for your little one to zip up themselves
• Elastic waistband and adjustable tie waist drawstring closure for flexible sizing
• Soft jersey liner for extra security and comfort

Rash guard sets for girls

Your little lady is sure to be the star of the pool in our girl's one-piece swimsuit and rash guard sets. Show off the cute one-piece suit and then throw on the matching rash guard during those peak sun hours.

The straps are adjustable for a flexible fit and baby sizes (6-12 months to 18-24 months) come with 3 snaps at the crotch to make diaper changing a snap.

You'll love the full-length zipper for easy-on and easy-off, zipper garage for no chafing on the chin, and zipper guard behind the zipper to protect the skin.

Sunsuits

Sunsuits are great for parents looking to provide full-body sun protection for their babies and toddlers. These one-piece swimsuits cover the torso, arms, and legs, leaving only the hands and feet exposed. 

Our baby sunsuits feature zippered fronts or snap buttons for easy diaper changes, and offer a comfortable all day option for sun-safe summer fun.

Sun hats

From baseball cap styles and flap hats to wide-brimmed hats, our collection of sun hats will keep your baby safe while completing their adorable summer look. Soft, lightweight materials ensure all-day comfort without irritating your baby's delicate skin. 

Sunglasses for babies

Sunglasses for babies are a stylish and practical accessory that protects your little one's eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Our sunglasses are built to last and feature 100% UVA & UVB protection.  

We created these sunglasses for babies using a special process to smooth out those rough, irritating edges found on other sunglasses designed for kids. 

Our timeless frame design looks great everywhere the sun shines. The beach, playground, spray park, sandbox, driveway, and pool.

What kind of material do you use for swimwear for babies?

Our baby boy and baby girl swimsuits are made with a high-quality blend of 4-way stretch nylon and spandex that offers comfort and sun protection. Our baby bathing suits, rash guards, and swim sets feature recycled nylon or polyester blends that are gentle on sensitive baby skin. 

These fabrics are chlorine-resistant, quick-drying, and offer a snug, comfortable fit that allows your baby to move freely. The tight weave of the material ensures maximum sun protection, with all of our items featuring UPF 50+ ratings that block up to 98% of harmful UV rays.

Baby sun protective swimsuits FAQ

What do 3-month-old babies wear to swim?

For 3-month-old babies, a snug-fitting one-piece swimsuit or rash guard with a built-in swim diaper is perfect. Look for swimwear made from soft, stretchy material with UPF 50+ protection. A wide-brimmed sun hat and baby sunglasses provide extra protection for delicate skin and eyes.

Should babies wear long-sleeved bathing suits?

Babies should wear long-sleeved bathing suits or rash guards for added sun protection. Long sleeves shield more of the baby's delicate skin from harmful UV rays. SwimZip’s baby UV swimsuits and rash guards are made from lightweight, quick-drying materials that keep babies comfortable while providing an extra layer of sun protection.

Will a rash guard keep the baby warm?

Rash guards protect babies from the sun, but do not necessarily keep them warm. Some rash guards are made from thicker, insulating materials that can provide warmth in cooler water. For extra warmth, consider pairing a rash guard with a neoprene baby wetsuit.

How tight should a baby swimsuit be?

A baby swimsuit should be snug but not restrictive. It should allow for easy movement and not ride up or sag when wet. Look for swimsuits with stretchy, soft fabric that conforms to your baby's body without being uncomfortably tight. Adjustable straps and snaps can help achieve the perfect fit.

Do babies need sunscreen as additional protection?

Even with UV-protective swimwear, babies still need sunscreen for maximum protection. Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to any exposed areas of the baby's skin, such as the face, hands, and feet. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming. The Skin Care Foundation advises not to use sunscreen on babies under 6 months old.

Does UPF 50+ clothing give maximum protection from UV rays?

UPF 50+ clothing offers the highest level of UV protection available in swimwear and clothing. It blocks at least 98% of both UVA and UVB rays, significantly reducing the risk of sun damage and skin cancer. For the best protection, choose swimwear with a UPF 50+ rating.

Further reading

What is a sunspot?

What is a sun rash?

What is a surf rash?

Sun poisoning vs sunburn

Best swim dresses

What is a bikini?

Contact us to discuss your requirements of odm straps. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.