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The best baby swim diapers will help your child enjoy the beach in summer or the pool. They are tested to make your baby feel more comfortable in the water and prevent leaks. These diapers are either disposable or reusable and available in various sizes. Now you no longer have to fret about dirtying the bathwater or pool or your baby stepping out with soggy bottoms. Read on to find some tried-and-tested swim diapers from trusted brands for babies.
Top Picks
11 Best Swim Diapers
1. Best Easy-To-Adjust: Pampers Splashers
If you’re thinking of preparing your baby for swim schools, this product might be a great choice for that. These are good-quality swim diapers from a well-known brand. To learn more about these swim diapers for toddlers, check out this video on YouTube.
Pros
- There is reinforced elastic around the waist and thighs.
- This mom-approved swim diaper with an elastic waistband offers a good grip and makes the diaper easy to adjust.
- The diaper is designed to provide the same fit when dry or wet.
- The tabs lie at the side, making it convenient to take off the diaper.
Cons
- The diaper is available in limited sizes that are most suited for older infants and not for young babies.
2. Best For Easy Removal: Huggies Little Swimmers
These tried-and-tested disposable swim diapers are available in several sizes to fit babies of all ages. Go ahead and check out this YouTuber’s review for more details about the water diaper.
Pros
- The tear-away tabs on the side allow for easy removal of the diaper while eliminating the risk of leakage.
- The sides of the diaper are stretchy, which allows for free movement in the water.
Cons
- A few parents found the diaper too small for the baby, despite picking the right size.
"I had apprehensions about these swimmers as I was new to them. Lovely surprise! I now find them reliable and sturdy; they do not bulk up or tear, even in water. They are leak-proof and a perfect fit for my petite two-month-old."
3. Best For Sun Protection: Finis Reusable Pool Swim Diaper
Image: Finis The Finis swim diaper, trusted by moms, is the perfect solution for keeping your little one clean and comfortable while swimming. This safe and effective swim diaper in solid pink and with UV protection is gently woven with 100% polyester lining.
Pros
- The diapers are not made of PVC or harmful material.
- Its pull-off style lets you easily put the diaper on and take it off.
- You can conveniently wash the diapers and reuse them.
- These diapers are available in different colors.
- This swim diaper with a snug fit keeps the baby comfortable.
- Its SPF 50+ prevents harmful UV rays from entering your baby’s sensitive skin.
Cons
- The diapers may run small.
- Some may find the diaper uncomfortably puffy at the back.
"I found this reusable swim diaper perfect for my 2-year-old. It's not bulky under her suit and is easy to clean. It also doubles as swim bottoms, and with good stretch, it outperforms snap buttons variants. It's an excellent option even for non-potty-trained babies."
Quick tip4. Best Easy-To-Clean: Nageuret Reusable Swim Diaper
Image: Beauandbellelittles 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 3,664 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
It is one of the best cloth diapers that can be useful when the baby splashes around in the kiddie pool, so feel free to test it out. The swim diaper with breathable fabric is a trusted choice of many parents and caretakers for keeping their babies comfortable.
Pros
- The exterior of the diaper is made from polyester fabric, which is water resistant and breathable.
- The inside of the diaper has a mesh-like pattern, which makes it easy to clean the diaper.
- Multiple snaps shut the diaper securely and prevent leakage.
- This stylish swim diaper with cute prints and child-friendly colors looks adorable.
- You get a one-year, money-back guarantee from the diaper’s manufacturer.
Cons
- The snaps may seem tight. A few parents noticed that the diaper’s fitting is a bit tighter than usual.
"These swim diapers are comfortable and easy to adjust, making them great for kiddos of all sizes. They are effective at containing messes, and I am impressed by how easy they are to clean. They are also environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternatives to disposables. I would buy them again."
5. Best UPF 50+ Protection: Hudson Baby Swim Diapers
Image: Hudson Children Wear The trusted Hudson Baby swim diapers are designed for maximum comfort and absorbency. Made with soft and gentle materials, these diapers provide a secure and comfortable fit for your little one, ensuring that they stay dry and comfortable throughout the day. Also, its pull-off style makes it easy to wear.
Pros
- These diapers feature adorable whale designs.
- It is suitable for both baby boys and girls.
- It is available in several sizes and colorful patterns
- The swim diaper is made of spandex for elasticity.
- This innovative swim diaper is eco-friendly and offers UPF 50+ protection.
Cons
- The swim diaper may shrink upon washing.
- They may take too long to dry.
"With SPF 50+ protection, these diapers exceed my expectations. I love their pant-style design, adorable prints, and washable feature."
6. Best For Easy Leg Movement: Bummis Swimmi Swim Cloth Diaper
This mommy-approved water diaper with stretchy leg openings is soft and comfortable, yet does not compromise on leakage prevention when used underwater.
Pros
- You can pick the diaper in multiple sizes ranging from baby to extra large.
- Inside the diaper is a nylon mesh that is easy to clean.
- Bands of Lycra line the edges of the diaper for easy and comfortable leg movement.
- These adjustable swim diapers grow with your child–they feature highly adjustable Velcro straps.
Cons
- The Velcro straps around the waist may come across as big and bulky for younger babies.
- A few parents noticed that the wet diaper tends to chafe the baby’s skin.
"These swim diapers are cute and comfortable for my little one. I found its Velcro to be sturdy--it withstands my kid's attempt at pulling it off. The colors tend to fade a little, but, overall, I would recommend it to new parents."
7. Best For Leak Protection: IPlay Snap Reusable Swimsuit Diaper
You will love this simple, reusable swim diaper that is designed for maximum leak protection.
Pros
- There is an elastic lining on the waist and around the thighs, which significantly minimizes the risk of leakage.
- The elastic allows free movement and makes it easy for the baby to move in the water.
- You can pick this reusable baby swim diaper with snap closure in six sizes to fit kids in the age range of six months to two years.
Cons
- The diaper may not fit well if the baby’s size lies somewhere in between the given sizes. You can consider the larger size in such cases.
- A few parents felt that the snaps tend to loosen after some washes.
Do remember8. Best Flexible: Splash About Happy Nappy Swim Diaper
Image: Splash About You can rely on this reusable and mom-approved baby swim diaper by Splash About when taking your baby to any water event or other water bodies.
Pros
- It is made from superior neoprene and rib fabric that prevents fecal leaks and spares you the need to use
- disposable diapers under it.
- It features a high back rib and is designed to ensure easy movability of the baby while ensuring a snug fit.
- The stylish swim diaper is available in various sizes and patterns
- It offers UPF 50+ sun protection.
Cons
- The size may run small so order a size up than your baby’s usual size.
- Seams may come apart in places.
"These swim pants offer a snug fit and effectively hold feces. They might run slightly small, so consider upsizing for larger babies."
9. Best Fitting: Storeofbaby Reusable Baby Diapers
The tried-and-tested Storeofbaby’s swim diapers are highly adjustable, which lets you get one with the perfect fit for your baby.
Pros
- The adjustable snaps are placed in a way that you can adjust the diaper size easily.
- The outer layer of polyester repels water while the inner absorbent layer of nylon helps hold any soiling within.
- The diaper is available in 28 color options so that you can get on that is to the liking of your baby or toddler.
Cons
- The diaper comes in a single, universal size that may not work for all babies. A few parents reported severe leaks quite likely due to the diaper being ill-fitting.
"This swim diaper is comfortable to wear, and its adjustable fit ensures it grows with your little one. I Iove the fun prints and how it is extremely easy to clean."
10. Best For Comfort: Wegreeco Swim Diapers
These reusable, baby-friendly diapers from Wegreeco are comfortable and fit children of a different age groups.
Pros
- You can pick the diapers in a couple of sizes that together cover the age group of 0-3 years.
- The diaper ships in a pack of three so you always have a replacement handy when you need it.
- The inner mesh of the diaper is very soft and provides adequate comfort to the baby.
Cons
- A few parents noticed that the diaper tends to hold some amount of water.
"These adjustable swim diapers have served my son for over a year. They're accident-proof and easy to clean—a quick rinse and wash does the trick. I wish we had these sooner."
Point to consider11. Best Easy-To-Use: Alvababy Swim Diapers
Image: Alva Here’s a safe and effective reusable swim diaper with a simple design that parents can easily understand.
Pros
- The diaper opens up just like a standard non-swim disposable diaper would, making it easier for parents to handle it.
- The outer layer of protection is 100% waterproof to hold the solid well.
- Different rows of snaps let you adjust the waistline and thighs so that the baby gets a snug fit.
- The product comes with a one-year refund or replacement guarantee backed by the manufacturer.
Cons
- Some parents noted that the size of the diaper tends to come across as small or large even when the diaper is a universal size.
"This creative baby gift impressed its receivers, elevating their pool-themed baby shower and nursery. I can attest to their size, adjustability, and comfort fitting. I can't wait for our baby's first swim!"
What Are Swim Diapers?
These diapers are specially designed for use by a baby or a toddler while swimming. Swim diapers work like a standard diaper but feature extra reinforcing around the waist and thighs to prevent leakage. The diapers minimize the risk of urine draining into the pool and hold the stools too. Although not entirely leak proof, swim diapers do not absorb the pool water and are better at preventing accidents in a pool.
Swim diapers, like ordinary diapers, can be disposable or reusable.
Why Do Babies Need Swim Diapers?
Regular diapers turn bulky when they become wet. Swim diapers, on the other hand, are specially designed for water activities. They are designed to hold solid poop for a while and are made of non-absorbent material.
How Does A Swim Diaper Work At The Pool?
Whether it’s a reusable or disposable swim diaper, it can only stop feces from entering the pool. Unlike regular diapers, these diapers can withstand water and hold back the solids, thus giving you enough time to change your baby’s diaper without contaminating the water instantly. However, note that swim diapers are not leak-proof and cannot restrict diarrhea-causing germs from contaminating the pool (1).
Disposable swim diapers have attachment tabs on the sides instead of the front or back, giving the diaper a snug fit and preventing any leaks.
Can You Use Regular Diapers For Baby’s Swimming?
No. Standard baby diapers are not designed to withstand being submerged in water. A regular diaper, disposable or reusable, will absorb the water and expand. The bloated diaper can add extra weight and leak. One must also not forget that any leakage from a diaper can be a hygiene issue for other people using the pool. Hence, it is best to stick to swim diapers that prevent such accidents in the pool.
How To Choose The Right Swim Diaper?
Consider the following three points when looking for a swim diaper for your baby:
- Ease of use: The diaper should be easy to put on and remove. It is an essential point to check since you are most likely to put the diaper in the changing room at the swimming pool and won’t have a dedicated space for changing the baby’s diaper.
Rachel Nelson, a professional childcare expert, seamstress, and entrepreneur, says, “You may consider swim diapers that have snaps, tabs, or Velcro closures. These diapers offer convenience as they are easier to put on and take off.”
- Comfort level: The swim diaper should not restrict the baby’s movements. The elastic around the thighs must not be too tight to prevent adequate limb movement. Also, instead of a bulky fabric, go for an ultra-light, soft fabric for enhanced comfort and ease of movement.
- Durability: There is going to be a lot splashing around in the pool. The tabs or snaps should be strong enough to withstand the movement.
Tips For Using Swim Diapers
- Change before going to the pool: It is best to change the diaper when you reach the pool or the beach. It reduces the chances of the diaper becoming already soiled by the time the baby steps into the water.
- May not work for newborns: Newborns, especially breastfed ones, have a poop that is mostly watery in its consistency (1). Since swim diapers are best at holding solids, a newborn’s poop may leak. Therefore, if possible, avoid taking a newborn for a swim. Also, the recommended age for the baby to start swimming is six months, which is the time they have solids and thus will have firmer stools .
- Will not work with diarrhea: Infants with diarrhea should never visit pools even if they are wearing the best swim diapers. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns against taking children with diarrhea into the pools. It can cause hygiene concerns and the spread of diseases.
- Dispose or wash after use: Once you are done using a disposable swim diaper, throw it away even if it is not soiled. The diapers are not designed for reuse once they have been submerged in water. In the case of reusable diapers, wash them after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does my baby need a diaper under a swim diaper?
It is not essential to use a regular diaper under a swim diaper. A regular diaper can get soaked as soon as your little one enters the pool. So using only a swim diaper should be sufficient.
2. What should babies wear when swimming?
Your little one needs to wear a swim diaper, swimsuit, wetsuit, or trunks when swimming.
3. Can babies wear regular diapers in the pool?
A regular diaper may not be a good idea in the pool as it will be highly absorbent, thus soaking in water to its maximum capacity and getting drenched.
4. How do I get the poop out of reusable swim diapers?
You can knock off the poop into the toilet and soak the reusable diaper. Rinse it well and air dry it for next use.
5. How often should I change a swim diaper?
You should change the swim diaper as soon as the diaper gets soiled. Keep checking the diaper regularly, and give your baby a break every 30 to 60 minutes of pool use.
6. How many swim diapers do I need for a week?
If you are planning a week-long beach vacation, two to three reusable swim diapers should be sufficient.
7. Does a swim diaper hold pee?
No, swim diapers can only hold solid feces but not pee. They are not leak-proof (1).
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna, our experienced writer of baby products, has curated this list of the best baby swim diapers with detailed pros and cons to simplify your shopping experience. She has provided various pieces of information and tips on how to use them and included premium diapers that offer optimal protection and comfort to your child. The products have been chosen after reviewing different customer feedback to ensure quality. Vibha has also included a buying guide to help you choose the right swim diapers.
The Bottom Line
It can be challenging to take your child to the restroom whenever they need to attend nature’s call during a visit to the beach or at the swimming pool. It may also be embarrassing to see your child soil themselves as they may be too young to control their bowel movements and their diaper is inadequate to deal with water. The best baby swim diapers can help you evade these common problems. We would recommend the Pampers Splashers with reinforced elastic, the Huggies Little Swimmers with tear-away tabs, and the mommy-approved Bummis Swimmi Swim Cloth Diaper with Velcro straps. While choosing one, ensure it is easy to use and comfortable, and the tabs or snaps of the diaper should be strong enough to withstand free movement.
Infographic: Points To Remember When Using Baby Swim Diapers
Regular diapers cannot hold up in the water. Therefore, swim diapers are a must when taking babies out for a swim. Although not fully leakproof, these diapers give parents enough time to take their babies out for diaper changes. Go through the infographic below to learn some notable points about using baby swim diapers.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
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