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14 Best Baby Swimsuits for Infants and Toddlers

Your little one will look cute and stay protected in these adorable swimsuits.
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By Emma O'Regan-Reidy, E-Commerce Editor
Updated May 11, 2023
Hero Best of Baby Swimsuits
Image: RuffleButts
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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. Here, 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.

Types of Baby Swimsuits

Infant swimsuits aren’t one size fits all. Here is a look at all of the different types of swimwear for your little ones.

  • Baby rash guards: Not just for surfing, baby rash guards are a top that can be worn with briefs or over one and two-piece swimsuits. Typically long sleeve, baby rash guards help offer extra protection from the sun, sand and water temperatures.
  • 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.
  • One-piece baby swimsuits: One-piece swimsuits can be long-sleeve, short-sleeve or sleeveless—but typically leave the legs fully exposed.
  • Two-piece baby swimsuits: Bikinis, tankinis and rash guard/swim trunk combos all fall into the two-piece category.
  • Baby swim trunks: Baby swim trunks are shorts-style swimwear. They come in both board short (looser fit) and brief (tighter and shorter) styles.

How to Pick the Best Baby Swimsuit for Your Child

Not sure which type of baby swimsuit will work best for your little one? Consider these factors as you shop:

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Best Baby Swimsuit Brands to Shop

As with all things baby gear, there are certain brands that do it better than the rest. For quality infant swimsuits that are cute to boot, check out these top places to shop.

  • Hanna Andersson: Long-lasting, sun-blocking, fast-drying swimwear for the whole family? Sold. Hanna Andersson offers everything from tiny two-pieces and trunks to full-coverage one-pieces and everything in between—all with fun designs.
  • Maisonette: Consider Maisonette your one-stop swimwear shop. The online retailer offers every type of baby swimsuit imaginable (including sweet sun hats), as well as mommy and me options for a matching swim moment. We’re big fans of their retro-inspired prints and colorful trunks, and new customers can take 10% off orders of $75 or more with the code BUMP10.
  • Tea Collection: Searching for baby swimwear that will protect your little one’s delicate skin as they splash and play? You can’t go wrong with swimsuits from Tea Collection. All of the brand’s swimwear offers UPF 40 protection from the sun, and come in a ton of colorful prints and designs. Bonus: The brand donates 10 percent of all of its profits to organizations that benefit children worldwide.
  • Janie and Jack: This timeless brand offers high-quality baby swimwear—including one-pieces, two-pieces, rash guards, swim shorts and accessories—in classic designs, making them perfect for passing down from child to child. Extended sizing (up to size 18 in some designs) allows for matching moments with older siblings, and their new Recycled Swim line offers suits made from sustainable fabrics (including one made from recycled plastic bottles). We also appreciate the UPF50+ sun protection found in most of their designs.
  • Boden: Vibrant colors and cheerful prints make Boden’s baby swimwear one of our favorites, but the brand focuses on function as well as fashion. All of their baby swim trunks come as a set with a long-sleeve rash guard; their full-coverage swimsuits feature a zipper for easy on-and-off and their baby cover-ups double as a towel to help dry off. Boden also offers adult and child sizing, making it a great place to shop for family swimsuits.
  • Nordstrom: Not only is Nordstrom a great retailer for all things baby swim-related (thanks to top-quality brands such as RuffleButts, Little Me, Shade Critters, Green Sprouts and more), it’s also ideal for the time-strapped parent who is looking for one place to shop for all the things. Whether it’s swimwear for Mom and Dad, fresh beach towels or vacation footwear, the department store takes care of the whole family with one stop.
  • Old Navy: When it comes to baby swimwear that’s both affordable and adorable, Old Navy reigns supreme. The retailer offers tons of stylish options at budget-friendly prices (some as low as $7!), and many of their infant swimsuits come with parent-approved features such as snaps at the crotch for easy diaper changes and UPF protection fabric.

Even among these seven top brands, there are still hundreds of baby swimsuits to choose from. We’ve narrowed it down even further, selecting our favorites across every category, from bikinis to full bodysuits.

The Best Baby Girl Swimsuits

Ready to lounge poolside with your water baby? Here are some of our favorite baby girl swimsuits that are equal parts cute and practical.

Best newborn girl swimsuit

Best newborn girl swimsuit
Image: Maisonette
Buying Options
Maisonette|$38.40
What We Love
  • Diaper area snap closures for easy changing access
  • Long sleeves for added sun protection
  • Adorable floral print and ruffle details
Things To Consider
  • Machine wash cold

We love this newborn swimsuit for lots of reasons. Long sleeves and certified UPF 50 fabric help protect baby’s sensitive skin from the sun, especially since sunscreen is a no-go right away. The easy button neckline makes it easy to put on and pull off your wiggly little one, even when wet. Starting at size 0 to 3 months, these swimsuits can fit newborns as small as 7 pounds, and each of the sets can be mixed and matched. Add adorable features like a ruffle bottom and fun retro floral print, and what’s not to love?

Sizes: 0-3m to 18-24m | Material: 100% cotton | UPF: 50

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Best one-piece baby swimsuit for girls

Best one-piece baby girl swimsuit
Image: Hanna Andersson
What We Love
  • Blocks 97 percent of harmful sun rays
  • Fast-drying, OEKO-TEX-certified material
  • Sweet ruffle skirt
Things To Consider
  • No available UPF rating
  • Machine wash cold, inside out
  • Line dry only

We’ll be honest: The cuteness factor of this fish-printed swimsuit is just too much to resist. But beyond looking adorable with its ruffled skirt, this one-piece baby swimsuit is made from sustainable fabric that is gentle on skin, dries fast to prevent irritation and protects from up to 97 percent of the sun’s UVA/UVB rays, making it an easy pick when packing for a day in the sun.

Sizes: 0-3m to 3T | Material: 84% recycled poly, 16% spandex swim knit lining | UPF: N/A

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Best baby girl rash guard set

Best baby girl rash guard set
Image: Nordstrom
Buying Options
Nordstrom|$59.99
What We Love
  • Coordinated, multi-piece set for added sun protection
  • Eco-friendly swim diaper alternative
Things To Consider
  • Not available in newborn sizes

This set from Green Sprouts has everything you could want in a baby swimsuit: A long-sleeve rash guard top, a side-snap reusable swim diaper on the bottom and an oversized sun hat with a chin strap (all with UPF 50+ sun protection). Plus, reusable swim diaper bottoms are more eco-friendly than disposable ones, and feature three layers of waterproof protection.

Sizes: 6m to 3T | Material: 100% recycled polyester | UPF: 50+

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Best two-piece baby girl swimsuit

Best two-piece baby girl swimsuit
Image: Hanna Andersson
What We Love
  • Blocks 97 percent of harmful sun rays
  • Fast-drying, OEKO-TEX-certified material
Things To Consider
  • Machine wash cold, inside out
  • Line dry only

Ruffled sleeves, a skirted trunk and a polka-dot print—what more could you want out of a baby girl swimsuit? What’s more, this two-piece set is made of a soft, sustainable fabric that dries quickly for your child’s comfort. Another top selling point: Hanna Andersson designs high-quality swimwear that’s intended to be handed down, so you can count on this pick for plenty of sun-filled fun to come.

Sizes: 0-3m to 3T | Material: 82% recycled nylon, 18% spandex swim knit | UPF: 50+

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Best full-coverage baby swimsuit for girls

 Coolibar Baby Finn Hooded One-Piece Swimsuit
Image: Coolibar
What We Love
  • Full coverage for extra sun protection
  • Chlorine- and saltwater-resistant fabric
  • Diaper area snap closure and zipper front for added convenience
Things To Consider
  • Not recommended for activities outside the water; the material is non-moisture-wicking and may cause overheating
  • Line dry only

When Coolibar says full coverage, they mean full coverage. Their hooded one-piece suit keeps your little one covered from head (thanks to a built-in hood) to toe (courtesy of long sleeves and pants). The fabric also has UPF 50+ sun protection that’s guaranteed to not weaken with washing to act as a double defense against the sun’s rays. Other features we love: Its chlorine- and saltwater-resistant Aqua Juno fabric, snap-close bottom for diaper changes and zipper-front closure for easy on and off.

Sizes: 3-6m to 3T | Material: 84% polyester, 16% spandex | UPF: 50+

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Best baby girl swimsuit with UV protection

RuffleButts Seersucker One-Piece Rash Guard Swimsuit and Hat Set
Image: Nordstrom
What We Love
  • Back zipper closure and diaper area snaps for added convenience
  • Blocks 98 percent of harmful sun rays
  • Coordinated set comes with a sweet sun hat
Things To Consider
  • Hand wash
  • Line dry only

This RuffleButts suit features UPF50+ sun protection—the highest level available, meaning it protects against 98 percent of the sun’s harmful rays. In addition, it also features long sleeves and a coordinating hat for extra coverage. Other useful features include a zipper in the back (easy-on, easy-off), snaps between the legs (hello, diaper changes) and a sweet seersucker and polka-dot pattern.

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Best toddler girl swimsuit

Boden Pastel Sunray Swimsuit
Image: Boden
Buying Options
Boden|$36.00
What We Love
  • Colorful, fully-lined design
  • Made from recycled materials
  • Machine-washable for added convenience
Things To Consider
  • No UPF rating available
  • Not available in infant sizes

On the hunt for the best toddler girl swimsuits? You can’t go wrong with this vibrant design from Boden. Your little fashion-lover will have heart eyes for the one-shoulder design, and you’ll love how it’s made from recycled materials. Better yet, it’s also fully lined and machine-washable. Another highlight: It comes in big kid and tween sizes, so siblings can have a pool- or beachside matching moment—how sweet!

Sizes: 2-3 to 11-12 | Material: 94% polyamide, 6% elastane | UPF: N/A

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The Best Baby Boy Swimsuits

There are just as many cute swim options for baby boys. Here are some of our favorite infant swimsuits for your mini man.

Best newborn swimsuit for boys

What We Love
  • Material blocks 98 percent of harmful UVA/UVB rays and is chemical free
  • Diaper area snaps for straightforward changes on the go
  • Back-zip closure
Things To Consider
  • Machine wash cold
  • Line dry only
  • Rinse after use

A one-piece zip-up is key for newborns. It makes for easy diaper changes and quick outfit changes, and removes the need to wriggle anything over baby’s head. This Snapper Rock rash guard also provides longer sleeves for extra coverage from the sun and UPF50+ fabric, and it comes in 0- to 6-month sizing for babies as small as 8 pounds. Plus, it features an adorable shark design to make your heart melt.

Sizes: 0-6m to 12-24m | Material: 82% polyester, 18% elastane | UPF: 50+

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Best one-piece baby swimsuit for boys

Baby Carter’s Recycled 1-Piece Rashguard
Image: Carter's
Buying Options
Carter’s|$26.95
What We Love
  • Parents say it’s super soft
  • Quick-drying fabric
  • Diaper area snaps for added convenience
  • Primarily made from recycled materials
Things To Consider
  • Zipper only goes halfway down the bathing suit

This one-piece design from Carter’s is perfect for little boys 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. Quick-drying fabric and a zipper make putting it on and taking it off a breeze (especially when wet). Plus, it’s made with recycled, sustainable materials, making it a great option for eco-minded parents.

Sizes: 3m to 24m | Material: 83% recycled poly, 17% elastane | UPF: 50+

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Best baby swimsuit with UV protection for boys

Monica + Andy Long Rash Guard One-Piece
Image: Monica + Andy
Buying Options
Monica + Andy|$30.00
What We Love
  • Long sleeves for added sun protection
  • Blocks 97 percent of UVA/UVB rays
  • Several adorable prints to choose from
Things To Consider
  • Only available in one size
  • Not made with organic materials
  • Machine wash cold

A swimsuit that can block 97 percent of the sun’s UVA/UVB rays sounds like the stuff of superheroes. But with this Monica + Andy swimsuit, it’s a reality, thanks to its built-in UV protection. Add in long sleeves and tight-fitting brief shorts (a close fit means no gaping, which can potentially expose more skin) for even more sun protection, and you won’t have to worry about constantly keeping your little one in the shade with this baby swimsuit.

Sizes: 3-6m | Material: Polyester-spandex blend | UPF: 50+

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Best baby rash guard set for boys

Primary Baby One-piece Rash Guard in Gingham
Image: Primary
What We Love
  • Parents say it’s easy to put on and take off
  • Lightweight long sleeves for added sun protection
  • Fun gingham design comes in three bright colors
Things To Consider
  • Some reviewers say they wish it dried faster

This design from Primary checks all of the boxes on our list when it comes to choosing a standout rashguard set—and not just because of its gingham pattern. You can count on the long sleeves and UPF 50+ fabric to keep baby safe and comfy as they splash away—plus, the lightweight material and zipper closure will make dressing your little love a breeze. When a diaper needs to be changed—don’t sweat it. This pick also comes with diaper area snap closure so you can clean your infant up quickly while you’re out and about.

Sizes: 3-6m to 3T | Material: 80% recycled nylon, 20% spandex | UPF: 50+

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Best baby swim trunks for boys

Baby Woven Swim Trunks
Image: Hanna Andersson
What We Love
  • Elasticized waist and adjustable drawcord to making changing a breeze
  • Minimal shrinkage and color fading
  • Comes in several cute prints
Things To Consider
  • Machine wash cold, inside out
  • Line dry only

Your little guy will be the envy of the baby pool in these Hanna Andersson swim 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 vibrant pineapple print to stay bright for many swims to come.

Sizes: 0-3m to 3T | Material: 92% poly, 8% spandex stretch mesh lining | UPF: 50+

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Best full-coverage baby swimsuit for boys

 UV Skinz Baby Boys Sun and Swim Suit
Image: UV Skinz
What We Love
  • Fully body zipper closure for added convenience
  • Saltwater- and chlorine-resistant fabric
  • Quick-drying and breathable for baby’s comfort
  • Comes in a variety of cute prints
Things To Consider
  • Machine wash cold
  • Line dry

Keep your little guy covered from head to toe with this adorable full-length 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. The zipper also runs from the neck to the ankle to make diaper changes a breeze, while the mock-neck collar offers extra coverage. Even better, it’s machine-washable.

Sizes: 3-6m to 3T | Material: N/A | UPF: 50+

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Best toddler boy swimsuit

Minnow Boys Capeside Vineyard Boardie
Image: Maisonette
What We Love
  • Timeless design available in several colorways and prints
  • Elasticized waistband and interior stretch liner
Things To Consider
  • No UPF rating available
  • High price point
  • Aerosol sunscreens may stain these trunks

Who said toddler boy swimsuits can’t be stylish? These patterned board shorts beg to differ! Minnow’s timeless trunks feature an elastic waistband for a snug fit every time—plus, they have an interior stretch liner to keep your kiddo comfy while they’re on the move.

Sizes: 1 to 11/12 | Material: 100% microfiber polyester | UPF: N/A

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How We Chose the Best Baby Swimsuits

Baby swimsuits are about having fun in the sun, but there are several important factors to consider as you shop. When sourcing swimwear for our roundup, we considered a list of criteria, including UPF rating, size options, quality and durability, value, style and convenient features. We leveraged our familiarity with leading baby brands and trusted retailers to make sure these pint-sized suits come from reliable manufacturers. What’s more, we read user reviews to understand how these options worked for families and their water-loving kiddos, and didn’t consider anything less with less than an average four-star rating.

To make sure we’re highlighting baby swimsuits that are safe and effective, we chatted with a dermatologist to understand essential features and safety considerations to keep top of mind when you’re shopping. We also followed the safety recommendations of the AAP.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.

About the expert:

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.

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