Taking your baby swimming for the first time is a special moment, but it can also leave you wondering what on earth bub should actually wear. Do they need a swim nappy? A swimsuit? What about the sun? Here's a simple guide to dressing your baby for the pool or beach.
The short answer
Most babies need three things for swimming:
- A swim nappy to catch any accidents
- A baby swimsuit or sunsuit that covers as much skin as possible
- A sun hat for time out of the water
Let's look at each one.
1. A swim nappy (non-negotiable)
Regular nappies aren't made for water. They soak it up, swell and become heavy, and they won't hold in the things you need them to. A swim nappy is designed to sit snugly and contain solids while letting water drain through.
Many public pools require babies and toddlers to wear a swim nappy, so it's worth packing one every time. Reusable swim nappies are a great choice: they're washable, cost-effective over a summer and come in cute prints. Choose a snug fit around the legs and waist.
2. A baby swimsuit with good coverage
A baby's skin is thin and burns easily, so swimwear that covers more skin is the best choice in the Australian sun. Look for:
- UPF50+ fabric, the highest sun protection rating for clothing
- Long sleeves and legs, like an all-in-one sunsuit, for maximum coverage
- Snaps or zips for quick nappy changes without taking the whole suit off
- Soft, quick-drying fabric that stays comfortable out of the water
All our baby swimwear is UPF50+, and our all-in-one sunsuits in sizes 3 to 24 months have snaps for easy nappy changes. Wear the swimsuit over the swim nappy.
3. A sun hat
A wide-brim or legionnaire-style hat protects bub's face, ears and neck when you're out of the water. Choose one with a chin strap so it stays on little heads. Browse our kids and baby sun hats.
What about sunscreen?
Cancer Council Australia recommends keeping babies under 12 months out of direct sun when the UV Index is 3 or above, and doesn't recommend widespread use of sunscreen on babies under 6 months. That's why shade, UPF50+ clothing and hats are the most important sun protection for little ones. Check with your GP or child health nurse if you're unsure what's right for your baby.
Keeping bub warm
Babies lose body heat much faster than adults, so keep swims short and watch for signs they're getting cold, like shivering or blue lips. A hooded towel is perfect for wrapping them up straight after a swim, and a long-sleeve sunsuit adds a little extra warmth in the water.
Baby swimming packing checklist
- Swim nappy, plus a spare
- UPF50+ baby swimsuit or sunsuit
- Sun hat with a chin strap
- Hooded towel
- A portable change mat for changes poolside or on the sand
- Wet bag for soggy swimmers
- A change of clothes and a regular nappy for afterwards
- Snacks or a feed for after the swim
- A shade tent or umbrella at the beach
Baby swimming FAQs
Does my baby need a swimsuit as well as a swim nappy?
A swim nappy alone works, but a swimsuit on top adds sun protection and warmth. In the Australian sun, a UPF50+ suit with long sleeves is the safer choice.
What size baby swimsuit should I buy?
Go by the size bub is currently wearing rather than their age, as babies of the same age can vary a lot. If you'd like it to last longer, size up for room to grow over summer.
Can I use a regular nappy in the pool?
No. Regular nappies swell with water and don't contain accidents, and most public pools won't allow them. Always use a swim nappy.
Ready for bub's first swim?
Shop our full range of UPF50+ baby swimwear, from sunsuits with snaps to reusable swim nappies, and get bub beach-ready for summer.