13 Best Baby Swimsuit Styles for Infants and Toddlers, According to Parents
When it comes to prepping for fun in the sun with your little one, the list of essentials ranges from the functional (sunscreen, sun hats, swim diapers and more) to the fashionable (two words: baby sunglasses). But one item that crosses both categories? Infant swimsuits. Not only is baby swimwear adorable but it’s also designed to help protect sensitive infant skin from the elements. And while your itty-bitty might not be hitting the pool just yet, baby swimsuits are still useful during those younger months too (think beach visits, water play and the like).
Whether you’re planning a beach vacation or just stocking up on warm-weather essentials, there’s no shortage of baby swimsuits to choose from. We’ve broken down everything you need to know about these pint-sized one-pieces and trunks—from the different types to our favorite brands and top picks. Below, shop our favorite baby and toddler swimsuit styles.
To help you find the best baby and toddler swimsuits, we researched dozens of options from leading brands and reliable online retailers. This way, you don’t have to spend hours scrolling. Here are the steps we took to create this roundup:
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We interviewed a dermatologist to learn what features you should look for in a baby or toddler swimsuit.
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We put our staff to work, asking them to evaluate the baby and toddler swimwear they’ve personally used with their families.
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We researched what was being said about infant swimsuits in The Bump community forums to learn what parents liked and disliked about specific styles and brands.
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We consulted safety advice from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to understand how to keep little ones safe in the sun.
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To understand how these baby bathing suits have worked for a variety of families, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring external forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out what parents nationwide looked for in baby swimwear.
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Lastly, we considered several aspects when sourcing baby and toddler swimsuits to include in our roundup, such as sizing, material and UPF rating, to name few.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
Newborn and infant swimsuit styles are cute, of course, but they also help baby stay safe in the sun and water. Here, discover our top choices for an array of categories, ranging from baby girl and baby boy swimwear to gender-neutral baby rashguards.
Overall best baby swimsuit
- Full-length zipper
- Gender-neutral style
- Easy diaper access
- Colors won’t fade over time
- Some colorways sell out quickly
A one-piece zip-up is one of the best swimwear options for newborns and infants alike. When getting you’re little one ready for the day ahead, the full-length zipper will make it a breeze to get baby in their bathing suit. Plus, it’ll be super easy to remove later on, even if it’s wet; no more trying to wriggle it over a squirmy infant’s head! The last thing baby wants when they’re splashing and having fun is to get their diaper changed, but luckily with this swimsuit, you can get the job done quickly, thanks to the snaps along the legs.
What’s more, this baby bathing suit also has long sleeves and falls above the knee for added protection from the sun. No matter what cute pattern you go with, you can count on the recycled nylon material to protect delicate skin from 97 percent of harmful UVA/UVB rays. Available in newborn, infant and toddler sizes, this bathing suit is sure to be a summertime staple in your household for years to come.
Sizes: 0-3 months to 3 years | Material: 82% recycled nylon/18% spandex | UPF rating: 50 | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry
Our community says:
"I do think the [swimsuits] from Hanna Andersson hold up REALLY well, better than the [Gymboree] one we had." – julienandy, The Bump forum member
Best one-piece baby boy swimsuit
- Highly durable, according to parents
- Easy diaper access
- Easy-on easy-off style
- Half-zip design
- Not machine-washable
- Some parents say they run big
This one-piece baby boy swimsuit from RuggedButts is perfect for little ones on the go. The long sleeves keep bare arms covered—even when you’re not in a shady spot—but the shorts allow for little legs to kick and crawl around with ease. Moreover, the front zipper makes putting it on and taking it off a breeze (especially when wet). When it’s time for a diaper change, you’ll also appreciate the inseam snaps that allow for straightforward access.
Parents had high praises for RuggedButts and were particularly impressed with how convenient these swimsuits are for outfit and diaper changes. If that’s not all, they also raved about the quality of this baby swimwear. One mom told us: “We've been able to use them for multiple years as they have room to grow, but one of my favorite fabric features has to be the UPF 50+ Sun Protection! I've been able to pass on [my child’s] suits to others because they look brand new even after tons of wear.” So, if you’re looking for a baby boy swimsuit you can depend on for multiple seasons, this style is sure to check all of the boxes on your list—and then some.
Sizes: 0-3 months to 2T | Material: 80% nylon/20% spandex | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Hand wash cold, line dry
Our community says:
"The one-pieces with zippers are very easy to take on and off and change diapers, etc.!" – Rebecca T., mom of one
"They wash extremely well and don't shrink or fade." – Lauren S.
Best one-piece baby girl swimsuit
- Highly durable, according to parents
- True to size
- Easy diaper access
- Can be monogrammed
- Half-zip design
- Not machine-washable
Parents also highly praise the baby swimwear from RuffleButts (the sister brand of RuggedButts), and this baby girl swimsuit is no exception. It’s complete with UPF 50+ sun protection, the highest level available, meaning it protects against 98 percent of the sun’s harmful rays. Additionally, it features long sleeves (and a coordinating hat is available) for extra coverage. Other convenient details include a zipper in the back for easy on and off and inseam snaps for straightforward diaper changes.
This baby girl swimsuit features a sweet seersucker and polka-dot pattern and is also available in several other prints, all of which are adorable. According to Jody M., a mom of one, “RuffleButts has the cutest patterns and styles to choose from, and the cute little ruffle details are always a hit! I love how many styles there are to choose from, and with my daughter being a toddler now, it's fun to give her the freedom to choose what she likes!” Whether you’re looking for a newborn bathing suit, a toddler-sized style or anything in between, you’ll be able to count on RuffleButts for seasons to come. Jody told us that her daughter has been wearing the brand’s swimsuits for three+ years!
Sizes: Newborn to 3T | Material: 58% polyester/34% nylon/8% spandex | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Hand wash cold, lay flat to dry
Our community says:
"The quality of RuffleButts is the best I've found with the suit brands we've tried. Very durable and holds up well with washes." – Jody M., mom of one
"Huge RuffleButts fan for my daughter! I loved the convenience of the snaps for diaper changes and long sleeves for UV protection. I found they're true to size." – Lauren S., mom of two
"Loved the fit and styles, how they fully covered the swim diaper and [that] they held up well in the wash." - Carolyn M., mom of one
Best baby rash guard set for girls
- High-quality design
- Swim diaper-friendly bottoms
- Matching family styles available
- Not machine-washable
- Pullover style
This baby rash guard set isn’t just pretty (we love the Kenyan-inspired floral print!), but it’s also super practical. The two-piece bathing suit comes with a long-sleeve top and coordinating bottoms, each of which has a UPF rating of 40 for additional sun protection. Standout features you and your little one will love include the swim diaper-friendly bottoms, the stretchy material and, of course, the ruffle detail on the bottom of the top. No matter what water activities you have planned, you can ensure baby will be comfy and stylish in this infant swimsuit.
Sizes: 3-6 months to 4T | Material: 87% polyester/13% spandex | UPF rating: 40 | Care instructions: Hand wash, lay flat to dry
Our community says:
"There's nothing cuter than a baby swimsuit—but cuteness isn't everything, of course. Tea Collection gives me the vibrant colors, bold patterns and sweet design touches I'm looking for, along with high-quality construction and UPF protection." – Lauren B., associate director of lifecycle and mom of three
Best baby rash guard set for boys
- Long sleeves for sun protection
- Mix-and-match styles
- Wide range of sizes
- Half-zip top
- Faux drawstring and pockets
Baby swimwear that can block 97 percent of the sun’s UVA/UVB rays sounds like the stuff of superheroes. But with this Monica + Andy rash guard set, it’s a reality, thanks to its built-in UV protection. Add in long sleeves and tight-fitting shorts (a close fit means no gaping, which can potentially expose more skin) for even more sun protection. This way, you won’t have to worry about constantly keeping your little one in the shade with this baby boy swimsuit. Bonus: This style is available in infant, toddler, kids’ and teen sizes, so all of your kiddos can join in on a matching moment!
Sizes: 3-6 months to 14 years | Material: Polyester-spandex blend | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Best baby swim trunks
- Lightweight
- Made from recycled materials
- Rashguard top sold separately
- No easy diaper access
If you’re searching for your next go-to baby boy swimsuit, look no further than these swim trunks from Primary. The simple style is one you’re probably familiar with already. The shorts feature an elasticated waistband, so you can easily pull them on and off of your tot. Even better, they’re complete with a mesh lining to ensure swim diapers stay in place, no matter how much running and splashing your little one is doing that day. Choose from several fun color-blocking prints for a vibrant, retro-inspired bathing suit baby that’s sure to delight you and baby.
Sizes: 3-6 to 18-24 months | Material: 100% recycled polyester | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: N/A
Best budget-friendly baby swimsuit
- Gender-neutral style
- Easy diaper access
- Budget-friendly
- Runs small, according to parents
- Some colorways sell out quickly
Baby swimwear doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be effective. Take this Old Navy rashguard set, for example. The gender-neutral rash guard has long sleeves and falls at the knee, just like other leading infant swimsuit styles. Other highlights include the built-in UPF 50+ protection and the front zipper for easy breezy outfit changes. Moreover, this baby bathing suit is complete with inseam snaps to make on-the-go diaper changes (whether you’re on the beach, in a public restroom or the trunk of your car) a more seamless process. Alex S., a mom of one, was a big fan of this feature on Old Navy swimsuits. She told us: “It's awesome that is has snap closure so diaper changes are quick!” Pro tip: Old Navy regularly has great sales events, so keep your eyes peeled for the next one to score even better deals!
Sizes: 0-3 to 18-24 months | Material: N/A | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: N/A
Our community says:
"I have been using an Old Navy swimsuit for my 10-month-old for her swim class; it's super cute! The quality is good, the fabric is holding up very well with regular use. We've only had it for one season so far, but I like it." – Alex S., mom of one
"The fabric has been great. […] I've never had an issue with them lasting from the start of pool season to the end." – Samantha H., mom of one
Now that your little one has surpassed the one-year mark, they’ll need a toddler swimsuit to keep up with their pace. Whether you’re looking for a toddler rashguard swimsuit, a budget-friendly style or anything in between, we’ve got your back. Shop our favorites below.
Best toddler rash guard set for boys
- High quality, according to parents
- Back neck zipper
- Elasticated drawcord shorts
- No zipper on big kids’ sizes
On the hunt for a toddler boy swimsuit that’s equal parts high-quality and adorable? Then this rash guard set from Snapper Rock won’t disappoint. The two-piece bathing suit consists of a long-sleeve top and coordinating swim shorts—both of which feature a shark pattern and offer UPF 50+ protection, of course. On infant and toddler sizes, the top is complete with a back neck zipper to make outfit changes a bit simpler. The shorts also have an elasticated drawcord waistband to ensure the perfect fit.
Sizes: 3-6 months to 6 years | Material: 82% polyester/18% spandex | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash, line dry
Our community says:
"I had a few of these passed down to me from a friend who used them for both her kids, and they're still in great condition for my son! " – Rebecca T., mom of one
Best toddler rash guard for girls
- Easy diaper access
- Cute skirt detail
- Soft, gentle fabric
- Some colorways sell out quickly
We’ll be honest: The cuteness factor of this toddler rash guard set is just too much to resist. But beyond looking adorable with its ruffled skirt, this one-piece is packed with plenty of details you’ll appreciate. For example, it’s made from sustainable fabric that’s gentle on skin, dries fast to prevent irritation, has long sleeves and protects from up to 97 percent of the sun’s UVA/UVB rays. It’s safe to say this is an easy outfit choice to make when getting your tot ready for a day in the sun.
Sizes: 0-3 months to 3 years | Material: 82% recycled nylon/18% spandex | UPF rating: 50 | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry
Best budget-friendly toddler swimsuit for boys
- Wash well, according to parents
- Elasticated drawcord waistband
- Affordable price point
- Pullover design
- Parents wish more styles were available
If you’re only going to be using a toddler swimsuit for one season, then a budget-friendly style could be your best choice. We’re fans of this rash guard set from Carter’s, which comes with a coordinating long-sleeve top and swim trunks, all for $21. The shirt features a fun graphic and a mock neck for extra sun protection, while the bottoms have an elasticated waistband and a functional drawstring for added convenience. Cassie B., a mom of one, told us the two-piece set was great for quick outfit changes. “They were both fairly easy to put on and off [and] fit just like a shorts and T-shirt outfit would,” she said. Even better, this set is machine-washable, so you can pop it into your washing machine at the end of a pool day and it’ll be ready for the next one.
Sizes: 12 months to 5T | Material: 83% polyester/17% spandex (top); 100% polyester (trunks) | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash
Our community says:
"The [Carter's] set we bought last year fit perfectly and made it through a week at the lake! No pilling or damage that we saw from washing it daily either." – Cassie B., mom of one
Best budget-friendly toddler swimsuit for girls
- Soft, stretchy material
- Affordable price point
- Tumble dryer-friendly
- Pullover style
- Not as high-quality as other brands
- Runs big, according to parents
Target is home to some of the best deals when it comes to kids’ clothes, so it’s no surprise that their toddler swimwear is no exception. This rash guard set comes in several cheerful patterns and a range of sizes, so you’re sure to find a style that checks all of the boxes on your list. You and your tot will appreciate the soft, stretchy material that’s ideal for active kiddos while also being gentle on delicate skin. This toddler swimsuit is just $15, and Kaylee B., a mom of one, told us that Target's generous return policy encourages her to buy from their brand more than others.
Sizes: 12 months to 5T | Material: 83% recycled polyester/17% spandex | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
Our community says:
"We've bought swimsuits from Cat & Jack the past few years for my son! […] I haven't had any trouble changing him or adding swim diapers under their swim shorts and I've loved the rash guard/SPF swim tops for coverage." – Kaylee B., mom of one
"A [favorite] for our son…wash well, but wish they had more rash guards. Love the material!" – Lauren S., mom of two
Best toddler swim trunks
- Durable, according to parents
- Knee-length style
- Adjustable fit
- Matching rashguard top sold separately
Your little guy will be the envy of the baby pool in these Carter’s trunks that can basically double as stylish shorts. The elastic waistband and adjustable drawcord ensure an adjustable, snug fit, no matter how lively your little one is. Best of all, you can count on the cool dinosaur print to stay bright for many swims to come.
Sizes: 2T to 5T | Material: 100% polyester | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash
Best full-coverage toddler swimsuit
- Four-way stretch fabric
- Full-length zipper
- Chlorine- and saltwater-resistant
- Buttery soft feel
- Matching hat sold separately
Keep your kiddo covered from head to toe with this adorable full-length toddler swimsuit from UV Skinz. The one-piece rash guard and pants combo keeps arms and legs totally covered—and features UPF 50+ sun protection, the highest level a fabric can offer, to help repel the sun’s damaging UV rays. If that’s not all, the workhorse material is also quick-drying and chlorine- and saltwater-resistant; talk about durability! The zipper runs from the neck to the ankle for added convenience, while the mock-neck collar offers extra coverage. What’s more, this toddler swimsuit has teeny tiny pockets so your little one can store any small treasures they find on their outdoor adventures.
Sizes: 3-6 months to 3T | Material: N/A | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash, line dry
Infant swimsuits aren’t one size fits all. Here’s a breakdown of all the different types of swimwear for your little ones.
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Baby rash guards: Not just for surfing, baby rash guards are tops that can be worn with briefs or over one- and two-piece swimsuits. Typically, long-sleeve baby rash guards offer extra protection from the sun, sand, and water temperatures.
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Full-coverage baby swimsuits: Since the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends not using sunscreen on babies younger than 6 months, parents need other methods for protecting infant skin from the sun. Enter full-coverage baby swimsuits, which are one-pieces with both long sleeves and long pants that leave only the hands, feet and head exposed. Some clever options even come with hoods to cover the back of the neck and head as well.
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One-piece baby swimsuits: One-piece swimsuits can be long-sleeve, short-sleeve or sleeveless—but typically leave the legs fully exposed.
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Two-piece baby swimsuits: Bikinis, tankinis and rash guard/swim trunk combos all fall into the two-piece category.
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Baby swim trunks: Baby swim trunks are shorts-style swimwear. They come in both board short (looser fit) and brief (tighter and shorter) styles.
Not sure which type of baby swimsuit will work best for your little one? Consider these factors as you shop:
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Fit and sizing: Dendy Engelman, MD, a Manhattan-based dermatologic surgeon, recommends opting for loose to moderate fitting UPF-protective attire. Why? “Tight-fitted clothes that tend to stretch out can reduce their efficacy,” she explains. Keep in mind that swimwear sizing can be different from other infant clothes, so it’s important to try them on to ensure a proper fit.
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Fabric: The swimsuit’s fabric can help offer additional protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Fabrics like spandex or nylon offer more sun protection than natural fibers, and darker fabrics tend to offer more UV protection than lighter ones. “Shiny polyesters can also be protective as they tend to reflect radiation,” adds Engelman.
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UPF rating: UPF (which stands for ultraviolet protection factor) measures how effective a fabric is in reducing UVA/UVB rays from penetrating fabric and reaching the skin, explains Engelman. That being said, she advises parents to choose baby and toddler swimsuits with a UPF of 40 or higher. Fabric with a UPF 50+ rating protects against 98 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. “Sunscreen should always be applied even when wearing UPF-protected swimwear,” reminds Engelman.
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Convenient features: Some useful features to keep an eye out for: Zippers make swimwear much easier to put on and take off (especially when wet), hoods offer extra sun protection and some baby swimsuits even come with built-in swim diapers.
About the writer:
Emma O’Regan-Reidy is an editor at The Bump. She specializes in writing e-commerce content about the latest and greatest in pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. Emma has researched an array of topics, from prenatal vitamins and postpartum pads to the best non-wifi baby monitors, toddler learning towers and everything in between. With over a four-year career in digital media, Emma aims to create engaging, helpful articles that inform new and seasoned parents.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Dendy Engelman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. She earned her medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, where she also completed her dermatology residency. Engelman is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society of Dermatologic Surgery and American College of Mohs Surgery.
Healthy Children (AAP), Sun Safety: Information for Parents About Sunburn & Sunscreen, November 2023
Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process.
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