Getting ready for summer means thinking about sunny days, splashing in the pool, and building sandcastles at the beach! And right at the top of every parent’s checklist? Finding the best bathing suits for kids. It’s not just about looking cute; it’s about comfort, sun protection, durability, and letting your little ones move freely as they explore the wonders of water.
Choosing the perfect kids’ swimwear can feel like a big task with so many options out there. You want something that offers excellent UV protection, dries quickly, and can stand up to countless cannonballs and saltwater adventures. Plus, let’s be honest, it needs to be something your child will want to wear!
To make your life a little easier, we’ve dipped our toes into the vast ocean of children’s swimsuits and pulled out five fantastic options. We’ve considered everything from material and design to sun safety and user feedback. So, let’s jump right in and find the ideal splash-ready outfit for your little swimmer!
Key Considerations When Choosing Kids’ Swimwear
Before we dive into the reviews, here’s a quick look at what we prioritize when selecting the best bathing suits for kids:
- UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor): This is crucial! Look for UPF 50+ to ensure maximum sun protection.
- Material: Quick-drying, durable fabrics like polyester and spandex blends are ideal for comfort and longevity.
- Comfort & Fit: Swimsuits shouldn’t chafe or restrict movement. Adjustable straps and soft seams are big plusses.
- Style & Design: While aesthetics are subjective, designs that appeal to kids can make getting ready for a swim much easier!
- Ease of Wear: Simple pull-on styles or easy closures make potty breaks and changing less of a hassle.
Our Top Picks for the Best Bathing Suits for Kids
Here are our detailed reviews of five excellent choices for your child’s next water adventure:
1. The Children’s Place Girls Family Matching Bathing Suit, Tropical Floral
If you love the idea of twinning with your little one or coordinating with the whole family, this tropical floral bathing suit from The Children’s Place is a super cute option! Beyond its stylish design, it boasts fantastic sun protection, making it a practical choice for long days under the sun. It’s a classic one-piece that’s easy to wear and designed for comfort, letting your child focus on fun without any fuss.
Key Features:
– UPF 50+ (the highest possible rating) blocks 98% of harmful rays.
– Made of 80% polyester/20% spandex tricot for comfort and flexibility.
– Lining made of 100% polyester jersey for added softness.
– Bottoms feature a pull-on elasticized waistband.
– Double straps and an allover tropical floral print for a charming look.
Pros:
– Excellent UPF 50+ sun protection.
– Comfortable and flexible fabric blend.
– Easy pull-on style for quick changes.
– Adorable tropical floral print.
– Part of a family matching collection for fun coordination.
Cons:
– One-piece style may be less convenient for potty training compared to a two-piece.
– Limited adjustability in straps compared to some other options.
User Impressions:
Parents adore the option to match with their daughters, making for great family photos! Many highlight the suit’s comfort and the peace of mind that comes with UPF 50+ sun protection. The fabric is praised for feeling soft against the skin, and the vibrant print is a hit with kids.
2. XiaoMoSha Girls Swimsuits Ruffled Round Neck Girls One Piece Swimwear
For little girls who love vibrant colors and whimsical designs, the XiaoMoSha one-piece swimsuit is a fantastic pick. What really sets this one apart is its combination of playful patterns – think mermaids, flamingos, and flowers – with thoughtful design features like an adjustable ruffled shoulder strap. It ensures a snug yet comfortable fit, letting your little one splash, swim, and play without any wardrobe worries. Plus, it’s quick-drying and offers great sun protection.
Key Features:
– Quick-dry material: 82% polyester and 18% elastane.
– UPF 50+ Sun protection for endless flexibility.
– Adjustable ruffled sleeve strap for comfort and security.
– Unique and fashionable patterns like mermaid, flamingo, floral, and strawberries.
– Ruffled straps and neckline provide coverage and a cute, stylish look.
Pros:
– Highly adjustable shoulder strap ensures a perfect, secure fit.
– Wide variety of super cute and vibrant patterns.
– Excellent UPF 50+ sun protection and quick-drying fabric.
– Comfortable for all-day wear and various water activities.
– Suitable for a range of ages (3-10 years old) and body shapes.
Cons:
– Some might find the ruffles a bit too busy.
– As a one-piece, it may require full removal for bathroom breaks.
User Impressions:
Customers rave about the adorable prints that their girls absolutely love! The adjustable straps are a big hit with parents, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit even for active children. The quality of the fabric and the effectiveness of the sun protection are also frequently praised.
3. Girls Bathing Suits for 5-6 Years Old Rainbow Unicorn Mermaid Style
This adorable one-piece from Nokecina is a dream come true for any girl who loves unicorns, rainbows, or mermaids! Made from a smooth, elastic, and high-quality fabric, it prioritizes comfort above all else. With its excellent UPF 50+ sun protection and exquisite workmanship, this swimsuit doesn’t just look good; it’s built to protect delicate skin and withstand plenty of summer fun. The vibrant and stylish prints make it a standout choice at any pool party or beach day.
Key Features:
– Smooth, elastic, and high-quality quick-dry fabric.
– Exquisite workmanship with nice seam stitching for no itching.
– UPF 50+ sun protection effectively safeguards delicate skin.
– Cute prints including unicorns, Hawaiian flowers, mermaid scales, and sparkling rainbows.
– Best choice for various water activities and makes a great gift.
Pros:
– Exceptionally soft and smooth material ensures maximum comfort.
– High-quality stitching prevents chafing and adds durability.
– Top-tier UPF 50+ protection for worry-free sun exposure.
– Eye-catching and diverse cute prints kids will adore.
– Dries quickly, enhancing comfort after swimming.
Cons:
– No adjustable straps mentioned, so fit relies on accurate sizing.
– Specific designs might not appeal to all children (e.g., if they don’t like unicorns).
User Impressions:
Little girls are absolutely enchanted by the cute unicorn and mermaid designs! Parents frequently comment on how soft the material feels and appreciate the careful stitching, noting that it holds up well to active play. Many consider it a perfect gift that combines style with practical sun safety.
4. Dolxico Girls’ Swimsuit Sparkle Rainbow One Piece Swimsuits
The Dolxico Sparkle Rainbow one-piece swimsuit is designed for durability, comfort, and, most importantly, secure coverage for active young swimmers. Featuring premium, durable fabric and UPF 50+ protection, it’s built to last through countless splashes. What truly stands out are its adjustable criss-cross straps, which ensure the suit stays perfectly in place, preventing dreaded slip-offs during vigorous water play. It’s a reliable choice that offers both style and peace of mind.
Key Features:
– Premium quality and durable polyester fabric.
– UPF 50+ sun protection for all-day fun.
– Adjustable criss-cross straps prevent slipping off shoulders.
– Modest cut provides comfortable and secure coverage.
– Lightweight, breathable, and won’t weigh down in water.
– Vibrant colors and patterns for a trendy look.
Pros:
– Adjustable criss-cross straps offer a very secure and customizable fit.
– Excellent UPF 50+ protection against harmful sun rays.
– Modest cut ensures ample coverage for active kids.
– Durable material designed to withstand lots of wear and wash.
– Vibrant and attractive sparkle rainbow design.
Cons:
– One-piece design might be less convenient for quick bathroom breaks.
– “Sparkle Rainbow” theme might not suit every child’s preference.
User Impressions:
Parents love that this swimsuit stays put! The adjustable criss-cross straps are a big hit for ensuring a snug fit without constant adjustments. Customers also appreciate the durable fabric and the full coverage, feeling confident their child is well-protected from the sun and wardrobe malfunctions. Kids, of course, love the sparkle and rainbow design!
5. Girls Tankini Swimsuits Bathing Suits for Girls Toddler Mermaid Set
For the little mermaid in your life, this unique tankini set offers both a practical swim option and an imaginative play outfit! It includes a tankini top, shorts, and a matching fish tail, making it incredibly versatile. The two-piece design is fantastic for ease of wear and potty breaks, while the mermaid tail adds an extra layer of fun for themed parties or beach photos. It’s soft, comfortable, and perfect for making unforgettable summer memories.
Key Features:
– Versatile mermaid set includes tankini top, shorts, and a matching fish tail.
– Made of soft, smooth, and comfortable 82% polyester and 18% spandex.
– Tankini top features ruffles and thin straps for elegance and cuteness.
– Shorts offer easy wear and comfort.
– Unique hollowed-out mermaid fish tail combines style and practicality for play.
Pros:
– Two-piece tankini design is convenient for bathroom breaks and easy changing.
– Unique mermaid tail adds an element of fun for dress-up and themed events.
– Soft and comfortable fabric blend for water sports.
– Versatile for both serious swimming (without tail) and imaginative play.
– Ideal gift for mermaid lovers.
Cons:
– The mermaid tail is more for play than functional swimming.
– Thin straps might offer less support/coverage than wider straps.
User Impressions:
This set is an absolute hit with kids who dream of being mermaids! Parents appreciate the versatility, allowing their children to swim comfortably in the tankini and then add the tail for imaginative play. Many highlight it as an ideal birthday or holiday gift that brings immense joy. The comfort and softness of the material are also frequently mentioned.
Conclusion: Making a Splash with the Best Bathing Suits for Kids
Choosing the best bathing suits for kids doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By focusing on key elements like UPF sun protection, comfortable quick-dry fabrics, and a secure fit, you can find a swimsuit that both you and your child will love.
Whether you’re looking for family-matching fun, vibrant designs, adorable prints, secure coverage, or a magical mermaid experience, our top picks offer a fantastic starting point. Each of these options is designed to keep your little ones safe, comfortable, and stylish as they make a splash all summer long. So go ahead, pick your favorite, and get ready for some unforgettable water adventures!
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Kids’ Bathing Suits Answered
Q1: How do I choose the right size bathing suit for my child?
A1: Always check the specific brand’s size chart, as sizes can vary. Measure your child’s chest, waist, and hips, and compare them to the chart. When in doubt, it’s often better to go one size up, especially for growing kids, as a slightly loose suit is usually more comfortable than one that’s too tight.
Q2: What is UPF 50+ and why is it important for kids’ swimwear?
A2: UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A UPF 50+ rating means the fabric blocks 98% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. This is incredibly important for children, whose delicate skin is more susceptible to sunburn and long-term sun damage. It adds an essential layer of sun protection beyond sunscreen alone.
Q3: What materials are best for kids’ bathing suits?
A3: The best materials are typically blends of polyester and spandex (or elastane). Polyester is durable, chlorine-resistant, and holds its color well, while spandex provides stretch and a comfortable fit. These materials also tend to be quick-drying, which helps prevent chafing and keeps kids comfortable out of the water.
Q4: How should I care for my child’s swimsuit to make it last longer?
A4: Rinse the swimsuit immediately after use in cool, clear water to remove chlorine, salt, and sand. Hand washing with a mild detergent is recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals, excessive wringing, and direct sunlight when drying, as these can degrade the fabric and fade colors. Lay flat or hang in the shade to dry.
Q5: Is a one-piece or a two-piece bathing suit better for kids?
A5: Both have their advantages! One-piece suits often offer more continuous sun protection over the torso and can be more secure for very active swimmers. Two-piece suits (like tankinis or bikinis) can be easier for potty breaks and offer more flexibility in mixing and matching. The “best” choice often comes down to personal preference, convenience, and the child’s age and activity level.
Q6: My child complains their swimsuit is itchy. What could be the cause?
A6: Itchiness can be caused by several factors: the fabric material itself (some children are sensitive to certain synthetics), rough seams or stitching, or residual chlorine/salt if the suit wasn’t rinsed properly. Look for suits with smooth seams, soft linings, and ensure proper post-swim care. If the problem persists, try a different material blend.