Choosing the Right Swim Diapers for Your Baby

When it comes to purchasing the best baby swim gear, nothing is more urgent than reliable swim diapers. Not only do they help prevent accidents in the pool, but they also ensure your baby is comfortable and secure while splashing. Here are a few great options.

RELATED: Potty Training Tips for Girls and Boys that Moms Swear By 

 
The HealthyBaby swim diaper is free of harmful chemicals and ingredients. Photo by the author

HealthyBaby Swim Diaper

This diaper is #1 on our list and perfect for all of the messy #2's. It's made with Oeko-tex certified polyester and has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it’s free from harmful chemicals and ingredients. It's known as the "Double Duty" Diaper because it serves both as a sturdy swim diaper and a cloth diaper cover, all in one. 

Hello Bello Premium Swim Diapers

If you're looking for a disposable swim diaper, look no further than the Hello Bello brand. These baby swim diapers are not only cute, but they are comfortable and stretchy to fit your child's splish-splashing movements. The diapers are made without parabens and phthalates, so you can rest easy knowing your baby's bum is covered.

RELATED: Developmental Milestones for Babies in the First Year

 
Green Sprouts' Reusable Swim Diaper is lightweight and secure. Photo courtesy of Green Sprouts

Green Sprouts Reusable Swim Diaper

Here's another option if you're looking for a reusable swim diaper for summer fun. This diaper is lightweight and secure to protect from any accidents in the pool or ocean. These swim diapers are snug around the legs and waist. Don't forget to pack a few extras—especially on beach days!

Sun Protection: Finding the Best Sunscreen for Baby’s Sensitive Skin

Baby sunscreen is a must, even for cloudy days. Babies have delicate skin that can burn quickly, so choosing a mineral-based, fragrance-free sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is essential. We are loving these baby sunscreens. I personally use the Thinkbaby and Badger ones for our kiddos.

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen

This sunscreen is a great choice for strong sun protection for your baby. It's vegan and doesn't contain any of the following: para-aminobenzoic acid, parabens, phthalates, BPA, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals. The recommendation is to apply at least every 80 minutes, but use your judgment depending on the day and sun exposure/temperature if you need to reapply sooner.

Badger Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40

Our family loves the consistency of this baby sunscreen. It rubs in pretty clear on skin and doesn't tend to leave a residue. With 98% organic ingredients, this baby sunscreen also has a calming chamomile and calendula scent. Badger is a great choice for summer fun in the sun.

Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+

Blue Lizard's SPF 50 baby sunscreen is another great option for sun protection. This solution has calendula extract and organic aloe to soothe baby's sensitive skin. Tip: Apply 15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 80 minutes, especially after water play.

Adorable and Safe: Selecting Baby Bathing Suits

Choosing baby bathing suits is about more than fashion—it’s about safety, visibility, and sun protection. Brightly colored suits like neon orange, pink, and lime green are easier to spot in water. Avoid blues or dark colors that blend into the water. Here are some of our top picks for the best baby swimsuits.

RELATED: 100 Top Unique Baby Names for Generation Alpha Babies

 
Rashguard sets protect baby's delicate skim from harmful rays. Photo by Simple Joys by Carter's on Amazon

Simple Joys by Carter’s Rashguard Set

Long-sleeved and short-sleeved options are available in many different cute designs. These baby bathing suits are made with UV protection and dry quickly, allowing little ones to maximize their time in the water.

RuffleButts Baby Long Sleeve Swimsuit with UPF 50+

If you're looking for a one-piece, long-sleeved protective baby swimsuit, look no further! There are so many adorable patterns to choose from, and these swimsuits are an easy pull-up-and-zip option for swimwear. For easy diaper changes, the bottom of the swimsuit also snaps.

SwimZip Baby Sunsuit with Zipper Protection

When searching for UPF 50+ fabric and long sleeves for added sun safety, this baby and toddler suit has you (and your little one) covered. This suit is a full-body zip-up swimsuit. Your little one's arms and legs will be protected from the sun. It's a great option for those long, extended beach days.

Fun and Secure: Top Picks for Safe Water Toys

Safe water toys help infants and toddlers feel confident and engaged in the water. They help by encouraging motor skills and water play. Here are some of the top baby-safe water toys.

RELATED: 25 Brain-Boosting Baby Games and Activities

Combine tummy time and water play! Photo courtesy of the Infinno Store on Amazon

Infinno Inflatable Tummy Time Water Mat

Thia water mat is perfect for tummy time and water play fun. It's a great take-along item for babies, especially those working on their neck and shoulder development and motor skills. If it's a hot day or your little one needs a break from fun in the sun, this water mat will make them feel part of the fun, without the heat.

Munchkin Float and Play Bubbles Bath Toys

These affordable, best-selling bath toys are also great for the pool and are a perfect start for your baby. They're water-tight, hole-free, and contain cute animal characters and rattle noisemakers.

RELATED: Baby Registry Must-Haves: Your Guide to the Best Tried and Tested Products

 
The Green Toys submarine is fun in the pool or bathtub. Photo courtesy of the Green Toys Store on Amazon

Green Toys Submarine

I just love this brand! Its toys are made from 100%-recycled plastic milk containers. You can rest easy knowing that your little one is playing with a toy free from BPA and phthalates. This toy is easy to clean as well, and is a great gift or surprise for a summer beach trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baby Swim Gear and Water Safety

1. At what age can my baby start swimming?

Most pediatricians recommend infant swimming from about 6 months, as long as the water is warm and the baby is supervised closely.

2. Do I need a swim diaper if my baby isn’t potty trained?

Yes! Regular diapers absorb water and can leak. Swim diapers are a must for hygiene and comfort.

3. Can my baby use regular sunscreen?

Babies under 6 months should avoid direct sunlight. For older babies, it's best to use baby sunscreen labeled non-toxic, chemical-free, and mineral, with an SPF of 50+.

4. What’s the safest swim gear for toddlers?

Choose baby bathing suits with sun protection, and avoid floaties that can create a false sense of security. Look for U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vests if needed.

Baby water safety starts with the right gear. From leak-proof swim diapers to chemical-free baby sunscreen and brightly colored baby bathing suits, you can set the stage for safe, splashy fun. Don’t forget: Always stay within arm’s reach, choose safe toys, and make water time a fun bonding experience!

This article contains affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you make a purchase. There is no extra cost to the reader. We only recommend products and services that we have personally used or have thoroughly researched.