Every parent wants their child’s first time in the pool to be safe, comfortable and fun. You should think about what your little one wears in the water. Check out these baby and toddler swimwear options and other helpful supplies to bring with you on your next trip to the pool.
1. A Hat
If you’re having fun in the sun this summer, your little one will need a hat. A protects the head, eyes and face. You will also protect your baby from painful facial sunburns and heat sickness.
Look for a wide-brimmed hat to protect your child’s neck from the sun! There are many cute options to help your little one look and feel good. Check out this hat from Amazon!
2. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a fashionable accessory that protects your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The sun can cause Cataracts, a clouding of the lens and blurred vision; 20% of cases are caused by extended UV exposure.
When purchasing sunglasses, look for ones that block out 99 to 100% of UVA and UVB to keep your baby’s vision sharp and healthy.
3. Goggles
Don’t forget your goggles! Getting chlorinated water in your eyes hurts; a pair of high-quality swimming goggles offer a tight, waterproof seal, which minimizes the intrusion of water into your eyes. Adjustable goggles with padding around the eye are ideal.
Goggles should help your child, but they shouldn’t depend on them. Dependency can lead to issues like not wanting to get in the pool without goggles on. In turn, your child will be a less confident swimmer.
4. Swimsuit
We recommend UV protection if you and your baby will be swimming in the sun. UV protective suits from UVSkins are soft and stretchy and protect your baby’s sensitive skin from harsh UV rays. You can also choose a regular one-piece bathing suit from Old Navy like this floral two-piece or full coverage floral rash guard.
5. Swim Diaper
Swim diapers are an important part of your baby or toddler’s swimwear. Once you’ve decided on a swimsuit consider getting swim diapers if your baby isn’t potty trained yet. Regular diapers won’t work well in the water because of their absorbent materials. Once it hits the water the diaper becomes unusable, saggy, heavy for the baby and a total mess!
Swim diapers are the perfect piece for your baby to have a fun time in the water! Swim diapers are designed to be water resistant, non-absorbent, and keep solids in. So it’ll keep number 2’s out of the pool. The process of searching and buying swim diapers can get a bit overwhelming and confusing. Look no further, read up on some must-know info about swim diapers.
6. Life Jacket
You’re almost ready, there is one more thing your baby needs to ensure a fun and safe time swimming! Educate yourself on the dangers of water wings and opt for a swimming vest like this one from Body Glove, designed to keep infants buoyant in the water. It’s important to pick the right lifejacket for your child.
7. Water Shoes (Or At the Very Least Flip Flops)
Keep your baby’s feet safe with some water shoes; you never know what they’ll step in or on. Water shoes aren’t essential unless you’re visiting the beach or pool. However, the right pair can help give your child a better grip in and out of the water. You never know what you’ll find on the pool deck and surrounding areas.
8. Sunscreen
Clothing provides you with some protection from the sun, but don’t forget the sunscreen! Sunscreen prevents sunburns and protects your baby’s sensitive skin.
Find a sunscreen with 50+ SPF; apply before and after getting in the pool. Know when to apply sunscreen before getting into the pool to get the most out of its use.
9. Towels
Bring a big fluffy towel or two. Then wrap your little one up after getting out of the pool. No one enjoys getting out of a warm pool and feeling cold — even on a hot summer day.
Babies cannot regulate their body temperature like adults; ensure the pool is at a warm and comfortable temperature (around 90-92℉). Young children are more sensitive to the cold than adults. Avoid discomfort with towels; bring extra to the public pool in case you get splashed!
