Choosing the right swimwear for your little one can feel overwhelming. With so many different types of swimwear available it can be tricky to know what to look for. So let us help! There are a few key factors to always consider, which we cover in this blog.
Sun Safety
It is crucial to consider sun protection when choosing swimwear for your little one.
* UPF rating: find swimwear that offers a high UPF rating to shield your little one's skin from harmful rays. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and is a measure of how effectively a fabric can block UV radiation. The highest UPF rating is 50+ and is considered to provide at least 97.5% protection from the sun.
* Coverage: find swimwear that offers maximum coverage of your little one's skin (Ahem, Pipi Swimwear sunsuits!). Full-length sunsuits are a great option and reduce the need for sunscreen battles. I'm sure most of us have been there! This is an excellent option for those with babies under six months who should not wear sunscreen (based on health practitioner recommendations). Also, for anyone who has a child with a skin condition, such as eczema, the less need for sunscreen the better as many sunscreens will irritate the skin even more. Bucket hats or legionnaire hats are also perfect for providing good sun protection.
Fabric
There are many different fabrics used to create swimwear. Consider factors such as whether the fabric is chlorine resistant, breathable, fast drying, light weight. There are also more eco-friendly fabrics available now using recycled material such as plastic bottles!
Visibility
Highly visible swimwear is crucial for keeping your little one safe in and out of the water. Bright patterns mean you can see your little one when they are swimming underwater, as well as when they go wandering off looking for adventure! Check out our Pipi Swimwear sunsuits that were designed to be bright, playful and fun.
Sizing
It is important that your little one's swimwear fits properly. Swimwear that is too large can not only be uncomfortable for your little one, but it can actually impact their ability to swim safely. Make sure the swimwear is snug but has enough room for movement and flexibility. If it's possible, look for sizing guides and use the measurements to find the best fit for your little one. Also, look for feature designs such as tighter cuffs on the ankles and wrists, which will prevent swimwear from covering hands and feet in the water!