Are you wondering what to dress your baby in for swimming? Our guide covers everything from swim nappies to wetsuits for your baby’s comfort and safety.

Swimming with babies is an exciting and rewarding experience for you and your little one. Whether you’re introducing your baby to the water for the first time or you’re an experienced parent ready to dive in, it’s important to know what to dress your baby in when swimming.

This guide will help you navigate different baby swimwear options and ensure that your baby is warm and comfortable during their water adventures.

 

Choosing the right swim nappy for babies

 For any children who aren’t potty-trained, a swim nappy is a must. There are two types of swimming nappies available:

• Disposable swim nappies – These look like regular disposable nappies but are made from water-resistant materials, so they don’t swell up in water. They are worn once, then thrown away.
• Reusable swim nappies – These are an eco-friendly alternative to disposable swim nappies as they can be washed and reused. Made from soft, breathable materials, they offer a secure fit and effectively contain any faecal accidents in the pool without absorbing water.

Check out our range of size-adjustable reusable swimming nappies, available in a selection of gorgeous patterns.

 

Understanding the double nappy system

Most swimming lesson providers, including Turtle Tots, require babies and toddlers to wear a double nappy system for extra protection against leaks and to keep pool environments as hygienic as possible. This means wearing a disposable or reusable swim nappy with a Happy Nappy over the top.

The Happy Nappy is designed for your baby’s comfort with neoprene sleeves around the waist and the top of baby’s legs to ensure nothing gets out!

For complete convenience, The Happy Nappy Duo is an all-in-one double nappy system which means there’s no need for a reusable or disposable swim nappy underneath it, helping the environment and making life easier.

See our full range of Happy Nappies and Happy Nappies Duo.

 

Adding extra warmth and comfort to baby swimming

If the pool you’re swimming in is on the cooler side, or you simply just want to add extra style or protection to your baby’s swimwear, there are lots of great options available.

• Happy Nappy costumes – The award-winning Happy Nappy costume has been designed with a full Happy Nappy inside, so you don’t need to purchase a Happy Nappy as well. The super-soft neoprene bottom is coupled with a soft UPF50+ nylon-Lyra top, which is chlorine resistant, providing maximum comfort for your child.

• Happy Nappy wetsuit – This innovative baby wetsuit combines the warmth of a neoprene suit with the practicality of a swimming nappy. The Happy Nappy wetsuit has a full Happy Nappy incorporated so you simply need a reusable or disposable swim nappy underneath. Made from soft and supple 1mm thick neoprene, it offers full upper body coverage to maintain core warmth but leaves the legs free to kick and move.

• Warm In One – These fleece-lined baby wetsuits offer maximum warmth for babies during swims and in chilly changing rooms. With full-length arms and legs, they keep babies cosy and help maintain barrier creams, making them ideal for sensitive skin. The Warm In One wetsuit is perfect for extending pool time and ensuring a comfortable, enjoyable experience.

Choosing the right swimwear for your baby is essential for their comfort, safety and warmth in the pool. From swim nappies to extra layers for warmth, there are various options to suit your baby’s needs. Whether you choose a disposable or reusable swim nappy, or opt for the convenience of a double nappy system with the Happy Nappy, you’ll be well-prepared. With added warmth from products like the Happy Nappy wetsuit or the Warm In One fleece-lined wetsuit, your little one can enjoy swimming in comfort and style.

Happy swimming!