It’s finally time for your baby to start swimming! But did you know that there are lots of types of swimwear that babies can use? You may have a swim nappy ready, but what about swim vests, thermals, or swim wraps? Sometimes it can get a bit cluttered!

So, let’s go over the several types of swimwear your baby can use, and what age they should use them.

Can’t I just use a regular nappy?

Swim nappies are nappies specifically made for swimming. Regular swimwear provides no protection against leakages, and regular nappies will soak up water and weigh your baby down.

Swim nappies should fit snugly around your baby’s legs and waist, making sure that there are no leaks. Swim nappies come in two main types:

Disposable swim nappies. These nappies come in packs and are meant to be thrown away after a swimming session. These come with an absorbent core to soak up accidents, but do not soak in any of the water around you.

Reusable swim nappies. These are meant to be reused, not thrown out. They’re usually made from soft, stretchy material that allows water to flow freely, but that holds solids and protects against faecal leaks. Some reusable swim nappies come with a waterproof layer or a mesh layer. Parents who are trying to be mindful of eco-waste usually opt for these kinds of nappies. All they need is a thorough wash and they’re ready to go again!

Besides swim nappies, what else can my baby use?

Keep in mind that whilst there are a lot of options for your baby to try, these next pieces of equipment must all be used with a swim nappy, and not a substitute:

Thermal all-in-one. Babies under 6 months old aren’t good at regulating their body temperature, so a thermal all-in-one can make sure your baby doesn’t get too cold. It’s also useful if your baby has a skin condition, as any creams applied will stay there even when swimming!

Baby wetsuits. Whilst thermal all-in-ones are usually made from wool, baby wetsuits are usually made from neoprene, which also keeps them warm while they’re swimming. Some wetsuits even come with in-built nappies to keep everything locked in.

Baby wraps. Baby wraps also regulate your baby’s body temperature, whilst being very easy to take on or off. Also made from neoprene, they are secured with Velcro fastenings that are easy to use.

Baby swimwear with floats. This swimwear comes with adjustable floats to help your baby get used to the water. Whilst you could use armbands, these floats help your baby adopt a more natural position floating in the water.

Swim vests. Although swim vests have floats that aren’t removable, they are compact and can fit neatly into a suitcase for trips and holidays.

Float jackets. With adjustable floats and an easy-to-open design, float jackets combine the best of both worlds.

UV float suits. If you’re concerned about the sun beating down on your baby, UV float suits combine the security of floats with full-body coverage that protects them from the sun's rays.

Now that we’ve gone through the advantages of different kinds of swimwear for babies, let’s take a look at what swimwear is the best for your baby.

What swimwear is best for my baby?

Now, you’re probably spoilt for choice given all these options! But here’s a handy guide detailing what age is appropriate for which swimwear. Remember, all babies should be wearing swim nappies along with swimwear.

0 – 3 months: Thermal all-in-one swimwear, wetsuits, and wraps are all great options for a newborn. This equipment helps to regulate your baby’s body temperature as well as looking stylish!

3 – 12 months: Wetsuits and wraps are great at this age because they allow your baby’s legs to be free in the water.

12 – 18 months: Swimwear with floats, float jackets and UV float suits free up your child whilst getting them used to swimming naturally. UV float suits can also help your child on a sunny day

What swimwear do babies need?

What swimwear do babies need? Learn before taking Unii’s Baby Swim Journey.