Protect Your Little Beach Bum with the Best Swim Diapers of 2021

What is a Swim Diaper?

A swim diaper is different from a regular diaper because it’s designed to be absorbent but not too absorbent that the material will swell up and be uncomfortable to wear. 

Typically, swim diapers are made with a waterproof outer layer or “shell,” and then have a more absorbent inner layer that’s made of soft material that won’t irritate your baby’s skin. The most important thing to understand about swim diapers is that, contrary to popular belief, they are not designed to completely contain urine. (I know, this is horrifying news, but it’s true.) What they are designed for is to contain #2 accidents in the pool and that’s about it. So all those jokes about swimming in the kids’ section of the pool are totally true, sorry. 

The best you can expect from a swim diaper is for it to help slow the spread of pee in the pool and catch the grosser accidents when they happen. That’s why fit is very important with a swim diaper: too large and it won’t do its job of holding stuff in and too small and the job won’t get done either. You’ll want to ensure that the leg holes fit adequately and aren’t too tight or too loose.

Types of Swim Diapers 

There are two types of swim diapers:

• Disposable swim diapers. These are swim diapers that you can put on your baby, have them play in the water with, then throw away when the fun is over. You slip them on, much like a Pull-Up, and they typically tear away at the legs to make diaper changing or throwing them away easy. 
• Reusable swim diapers. Reusable swim diapers are just what they sound like–they can be reused. Many are machine-washable, so you can simply throw the diaper in the washer and you’re ready for more fun in the sun. Some are also adjustable, so they’re designed for the long haul and you can use the snaps to find the perfect fit for babies from 0 to 3 years of age. 

What Type of Swim Diaper Should You Choose?

I recommend picking up both types of swim diapers, both reusable and disposable, to keep on hand. Personally, I love the convenience of reusable diapers because we swim a lot in the summer. 

But there are times when we go to a beach or a public pool when I want the ability to change my baby’s diaper or have the reassurance that if there’s an accident I can change her, so that’s where disposable comes in. And as a reminder for pool safety, the CDC recommends that all parents and caregivers change their baby’s diaper about every 60 minutes to reduce the risk of spreading infection. 

The 6 Best Swim Diapers of 2021

These disposable swim diapers are super convenient, decked out in cute designs ,and are quick to clean up or take off thanks to the easy rip side seams. This budget-friendly option is widely available at all stores where baby products are sold. So, if you forgot to pack your baby’s reusable swim diaper for your baby, they are readily available regardless of where you are and they won’t put a dent in your wallet.

You can pick up these reusable adjustable swim diapers from Ethel Mae in a variety of cute patterns and prints, from unicorns to whales to frogs. And you heard it here first: you have to check out the adorable denim print–you won’t regret it.

While these are a popular swim diaper option, many parents noted in their review that the diapers do tend to run on the smaller side, so you may want to consider sizing up when you order.

Because after all, fit is pretty important if you want to keep certain items out of the pool, if you get my drift.

Selecting the right fit is easy with no buttons or side seams, and the elastic bands help those tiny little chubby legs freely get through. Made with chemical-free recycled material with an added layer of SPF-50, Primary has your baby’s bum covered, whether they are lounging poolside or going for a dip in the ocean.

The Charlie Banana Republic swim diapers are reusable and feature a signature softness thanks to a secret ingredient: Tencel Lyocell,  which provides natural softness. You’ll appreciate the wide-back elastic and adjustable waist drawstrings on this diaper that ensure a secure fit and stop accidental leaking. The diapers also come in many different patterns and colors, so you’ll find one that matches your baby’s styles exactly. 

This diaper has some mixed reviews online, but one thing you should understand is that this diaper does not have snaps like many of the other type of reusable swim diapers, so be sure that’s something you’re okay with it.

If a swim diaper can be classified as beautiful, this one would definitely qualify. The waterproof shells are artist-designed and come in an array of modern prints, patterns, and colors.

Will & Fox also has a special sizing video you can watch to ensure you know how to size your baby’s diaper appropriately. Remember, size matters when you’re trying to keep a snug fit for your baby at the beach.