6 Best Baby Swimsuits
Written by Mindsmaking Commerce Writer
Fact Checked by Mindsmaking Professionals
26th, May, 2025
A good swimsuit fits comfortably, is gentle on delicate skin, and offers protection from the sun, ideally with built-in UPF 50. We’ve selected the best swimsuits suitable for babies’ sensitive skin just for you.
Mindsmaking selects products based on editors’ research and community wisdom , with accurate prices and details at the time of publication. Commission may be earned from shopping links.
In this Article
Swimsuits do more than just make your little one look cute at the beach or pool. They play a key role in protecting delicate baby skin. Designed to shield the skin from direct exposure, a good swimsuit acts like an extra layer of sunscreen. It helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term sun damage by blocking harmful UV rays.
For parents, it means reassurance. You can relax knowing your child’s skin is protected, letting them enjoy outdoor water play without you having to worry all the time. Many baby swimsuits today are made with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) 50+ fabric, which blocks up to 98% of UVA and UVB rays (2), and that is an important feature since children’s skin is more sensitive and prone to damage.
Investing in a high-quality swimsuit, especially one with a full-coverage design, long sleeves, and leg protection, is a smart choice for sunny days. These suits offer UV protection and are made of quick-drying, breathable, and stretchy materials that keep your baby comfortable and happy while swimming or crawling around the sand.
Here's a sneak peek of our 6 Best Baby Swimsuits
Best overall
SwimZip Boys' Long-Sleeve UPF 50+ Swimsuit for Baby, Toddler, & Little Boys
Price: $45
Amazon
Second-best Unisex swimsuit
WeVSwe Baby Toddler UPF 50+ Sun Protection Rash Guard Long Sleeve Swimsuit with Crotch Zipper
Price: $26
Amazon
Best Female Swimsuit Set
Simple Joys by Carter's Girls' 3-Piece Assorted Rashguard Sets
Price: $25
Amazon
Best long-sleeved swimsuit
RuffleButts Baby/Toddler Girls Scalloped Long Sleeve Rash Guard 2-Piece UPF50+ Sun Protected Swimsuit
Price: $35
Amazon
Best boys complete swimsuit set
Baby Boys Swimsuit One Piece Striped Zipper Swimwear Baby Toddler Girls Bathing Suit Rash Guard Swimming Sunsuit
Price: $18
Amazon
Best suit for a Female
Baby Girl Swimsuit Toddler Girls Bathing Suit Bikini Bottoms Two Piece Swimwear Suit with Hat
Price: $15
AmazonHow We Choose the Best Baby Swimsuits
When it comes to baby swimsuits, protection and comfort are non-negotiable. That’s why every swimsuit we recommend is thoughtfully selected with your baby’s safety and ease in mind.
Our top picks are crafted with premium UPF 50+ fabric, which blocks up to 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. This added layer of sun protection reduces the risk of sunburn. It helps prevent long-term skin damage, something sunscreen alone can’t always guarantee, especially during extended hours at the beach or pool.
But a great swimsuit is more than just sun-safe. It should also be practical for everyday parenting. We prioritise swimsuits with soft, stretchy materials like nylon-spandex or polyester blends. These fabrics allow for a snug but flexible fit, making it easy to get the swimsuit on and off, even when your baby is wet or wiggly.
Durability is another key factor we consider. Babies love to explore, which often means sand, salt, chlorine, and multiple rounds in the wash. The swimsuits we choose are made to withstand all of it. High-quality polyester and similar fabrics hold their shape, resist fading, and dry quickly.
We also consider thoughtful design features that make life easier for parents and more enjoyable for babies, from zipper guards that protect delicate skin to flat seams that prevent irritation. Many of our favourite picks also offer full-body coverage, long sleeves, high necklines, and even leg coverage, ideal for younger babies on extra sunny days.
Of course, we did not forget about style. The best baby swimsuits combine function with fun. Whether you prefer vibrant colours or playful patterns, there’s a safe, comfortable, and adorable swimsuit for your little swimmer.
Our 6 Best Baby Swimsuits
SwimZip Boys' Long-Sleeve UPF 50+ Swimsuit for Baby, Toddler, & Little Boys
Why we like
- Made from UPF 50+ fabric, it blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays, providing excellent protection for babies and toddlers with sensitive skin.
- It features a full-length front zipper, making it simple to put on and remove, even when wet.
- Made from soft, stretchy polyester that's chlorine and saltwater-resistant.
- Machine washable and retains shape after multiple washes.
Something to Note
- At $45, it's considered a premium option, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Customer’s Review
A mom couldn’t hide her excitement about SwimZip swimwear for her little guy. “Love SwimZip for my little guy!” she said. She praised the UPF 50+ fabric, sharing, “I can just relax knowing he's covered from head to toe.” She also loved the fun prints and full-length zippers, adding, “No more struggling to get him in or out.”
One mom shared her glowing experience with SwimZip, calling it a true lifesaver for beach and pool days. “Our SwimZip dries quickly after splashy fun and seems very comfortable for him to wear,” she said. She praised the fabric’s “perfect thickness” that keeps her baby cool and loved how stretchy it is. Having already bought a second suit, she highly recommended SwimZip for sun safety and convenience.
WeVSwe Baby Toddler UPF 50+ Sun Protection Rash Guard Long Sleeve Swimsuit with Crotch Zipper
Why we like
- Offers UPF 50+ coverage, effectively blocking over 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Provides full-body coverage from neck to ankles.
- Features a crotch zipper, making diaper changes quick and easy without removing the entire suit.
Something to Note
- A few customers noted that the suit runs small, particularly in the lower body, recommending sizing up for a better fit.
Customer’s Review
One mom couldn’t stop raving about this sun-protective suit she got for her baby boy. “This product is amazing!” she said, loving the zipper on the legs that makes diaper changes a breeze. She joked, “Why don’t they make sleepers like that?” Although she ordered a bigger size for her 10-month-old “tank,” the stretchy fabric fit perfectly, staying snug around his calves and ankles without slipping.
Another mom shared her excitement over this recent purchase that had quickly become a favorite for her little one. She said, “We love that it has a zipper on the bottom for easy diaper changes,” calling it a game-changer for her daily routine. She mentioned the high quality of the product, noting how it provided full coverage from her baby's neck down to his ankles and wrists, something she found especially important since babies can’t wear sunscreen.
Simple Joys by Carter's Girls' 3-Piece Assorted Rashguard Sets
Why we like
- Each piece in the set offers UPF 50+ sun protection, effectively blocking over 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- The set includes a long-sleeve rashguard, a tankini top, and swim bottoms, allowing mix-and-match options to suit different activities and preferences.
- It is available in various fun and colorful prints, such as watermelon and sea life themes, which appeal to children.
- The materials used are machine washable and maintain their color and shape after multiple washes, making them convenient for regular use.
Something to Note
- Sizing runs small.
Customer’s Review
A mom shared her delight after buying Carter’s 3-piece watermelon bathing suit for her nearly 3-year-old daughter. She chose size 3T, expecting it to run small, but was happy it fit just a bit big, perfect for a last-minute trip. She called the watermelon design “absolutely adorable” and said her daughter wore the rash guard and bottoms daily at the pool. They switched to a tank top in the evenings to give her a sun break, making it “such a great setup.”
A happy parent shared how this rash guard set was “perfect in every way.” She loved the “super cute” colors and how comfortable the fit was for all-day water play. She appreciated the sun protection and how well the pieces stayed in the water. What stood out most was having three sets in one pack, “a total lifesaver” that ended frantic searches for a clean swimsuit before beach trips.
RuffleButts Baby/Toddler Girls Scalloped Long Sleeve Rash Guard 2-Piece UPF50+ Sun Protected Swimsuit
Why we like
- Provides UPF 50+ coverage, effectively blocking over 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Long sleeves and full coverage design minimise the need for additional sunscreen.
- Features signature scalloped edges and ruffle details, offering a fashionable look.
- Made from a blend of 80% nylon and 20% spandex, providing a soft, stretchy, and quick-drying material.
Something to Note
- Requires hand washing, which may be less convenient for regular use.
Customer’s Review
A long-time fan of quality swimwear shared her satisfaction with this swimsuit set, saying, “We’ve used those brands for years, and this set matches their high quality, plus the pattern and color are so cute!” She found the fit a bit loose on her 6-year-old, weighing 44 pounds, but liked that it made it easier to take it off when wet. She also appreciated the stretchy fabric, which added comfort and usability.
A devoted mom called RuffleButts bathing suits “like no other,” praising their quality and beauty. She said, “I like these better than Lilly Pulitzer suits!” The size 5 fit her tall 4-year-old perfectly, with room to grow. She called it “the best bathing suit she ever bought.”
Baby Boys Swimsuit One Piece Striped Zipper Swimwear Baby Toddler Girls Bathing Suit Rash Guard Swimming Sunsuit
Why we like
- Offers UPF 50+ coverage, effectively blocking over 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Features a front zipper, making it easy to put on and take off, even when wet.
- Made from a blend of polyester and spandex.
- The fabric is resistant to chlorine and saltwater, maintaining its color and shape after multiple washes.
Something to Note
- Availability may be limited to certain sizes, so it's important to check the sizing chart before purchasing.
Customer’s Review
One mom said she tried many swimsuits for her son but found this one the best. She loved the true-to-size fit, making dressing easy. It kept him cool during hot summer play, making outdoor fun comfortable and worry-free.
A mom praised the blue stripe rash guard for her baby boy as “adorable, protective, and well-made.” She loved the UPF fabric, long sleeves for sun protection, and the stretchy, quick-drying material for comfort. The matching hat was “so cute” and added the perfect shade.
Baby Girl Swimsuit Toddler Girls Bathing Suit Bikini Bottoms Two Piece Swimwear Suit with Hat
Why we like
- Includes a matching sun hat, providing additional sun protection for your child.
- Available in various vibrant colors and patterns, appealing to both parents and children.
- Made from soft and breathable materials, ensuring comfort during water activities.
- Budget-friendly.
Something to Note
- As a bikini-style swimsuit, it offers less coverage than one-piece or rash guard options, necessitating additional sunscreen application on exposed areas.
Customer’s Review
A delighted parent called the two-piece swimsuit “absolutely charming and beautifully made.” She loved the vibrant floral print, playful ruffles, and stylish bow. The sizing fit well, even over a swim diaper, and the strong stitching gave her confidence that it would last.
A thrilled mom called this swimsuit “the most adorable ever” for her baby girl. She loved the bright colors, true-to-size fit, and comfy feel. The coordinating hat “pulls the whole outfit together.” The set stayed like new after many washes.
What to Look Out for When Shopping
When shopping for your baby's swimsuit, it's essential to consider a few key factors to ensure comfort, safety, and style. Here’s a simple checklist to help guide you through the process and find the perfect swimsuit for your little one.
- Watch out for UV protection. This is a must-have for every good swimsuit. Remember, your baby's skin is sensitive to UV rays. Look for swimwear with UPF 40+ and 50+, which will block out 98% of these harmful rays.
- It is important to note that babies cannot stay in water for long periods due to their inability to regulate their body temperature. So, it is important to choose clothing that covers their full body and keeps them warm.
- It is always important to choose the right size. If your baby’s swimsuit is too tight, the material will stretch, allowing UV rays to penetrate their skin. It can also tear and expose their sensitive skin.
- Also note that suits made from tightly woven fabrics offer the best protection against UV rays, and darker colours offer more protection than lighter ones (1).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is UV protection important in baby swimsuits?
Babies have very sensitive skin that can be easily the sun’s UV rays can damage with UV protection, especially those labelled UPF 40+ or 50+, helps block out up to 98% of harmful rays, keeping your baby's skin safe during outdoor water activities.
What materials are best for baby swimsuits?
The best baby swimsuits are made from stretchy, quick-drying, durable materials like polyester or nylon-spandex blends. These fabrics provide comfort, allow easy dressing, and hold up well after repeated use and washing.
Do baby and toddler swimsuits with UPF 50+ eliminate the need for sunscreen?
No, while UPF 50+ swimsuits provide excellent protection by blocking over 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays, it's still important to apply sunscreen to exposed skin, such as the face, neck, hands, and feet, for complete sun safety.
Should I size up when buying swimsuits for babies and toddlers?
Yes, many parents recommend sizing up. Several brands, especially those with snug rash guard designs or two-piece sets, tend to run small. Sizing up ensures a more comfortable fit and allows room for growth or layering a swim diaper underneath.
How many swimsuits does a baby need?
Most babies need at least two to three swimsuits. This allows for easy rotation between swims, ensures you have a dry one, and provides a backup in case of accidents or diaper leaks.