13 Best Baby Swimsuit Styles for Infants and Toddlers, According to Parents
In a nutshell:
Based on feedback from The Bump community and the personal experiences of our staff, we chose the Hanna Andersson Baby Rashguard Swimsuit as the overall best baby swimsuit. The durable, high quality, sun-resistant OEKO-TEX certified fabric and easy on-off design stood out to our team.
As a mom of two boys, I’m always on the hunt for cute baby boy swimwear—so I know just how much thought goes into prepping for fun in the sun with little ones. From the functional must-haves like sunscreen, sun hats, and swim diapers to the fashionable extras (hello, baby sunglasses), there’s a lot to pack. But one essential that checks both boxes? Infant swimsuits.
Baby swimwear isn’t just adorable—it’s designed to help protect sensitive skin from sun, sand, and water. And even if your baby isn’t quite ready to make a splash in the pool, a good swimsuit is still a must for beach days, backyard water play, and warm-weather adventures.
Whether you’re planning a vacation or just getting your summer gear in order, there’s no shortage of baby swimsuits out there. I’ve pulled together everything you need to know—from different styles and features to my favorite brands and picks for baby swimwear and toddler bathing suits. Let’s dive in!
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:
- We interviewed a dermatologist to learn what features you should look for in a baby or toddler swimsuit.
- We put our staff to work, asking them to evaluate the baby and toddler swimwear they’ve personally used with their families.
- 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.
- We consulted safety advice from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to understand how to keep little ones safe in the sun.
- 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.
- 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 our product reviews.
Overall best baby swimsuit
- Easy on and off—wet or dry
- Durable material
- Bright, vibrant colors
- Some prints sell out quickly
This rashguard one-piece from Hanna Andersson is everything a baby swimsuit should be: sun-safe, well-made, and easy to get on and off. It’s crafted from a soft, recycled fabric blend that offers UPF 50+ protection and resists damage from chlorine, saltwater and sunscreen. The long sleeves and mock neck provide extra coverage, while the back zipper and snap bottom make for quick diaper changes—no wrestling required. Plus, it’s OEKO-TEX certified, so you can feel good about putting it on delicate skin. Available in bright, playful prints like Fishy Fun, it’s suitable for boys or girls, making a practical and adorable pick for warm-weather outings.
Sizes: 0-3 months to 3 years | Material: 80% recycled nylon/20% 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
- Hand wash only
- Half-zip design
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.
In our research, parents had high praise for RuggedButts and were particularly impressed with how convenient this baby boy swimsuit is for outfit and diaper changes. If that’s not all, they also raved about the quality. 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 baby boy swimwear 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 3T | 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
- Monogrammable
- Durable fabric
- True to size
- Hand wash only
- Half-zip only
RuffleButts (the sister brand of RuggedButts) is consistently praised by parents, and this baby girl swimsuit lives up to the hype. It offers UPF 50+ sun protection—the highest level available—blocking up to 98 percent of harmful UV rays. The long sleeves provide extra coverage, and other thoughtful details include a back zipper for easy dressing and inseam snaps to make diaper changes quick and simple.
This baby girl swimsuit features an adorable seersucker and polka-dot pattern and is also available in various other sweet prints. Jody M., a mom of one, shared, “RuffleButts has the cutest patterns and styles to choose from, and the little ruffle details are always a hit! With my daughter now a toddler, it’s fun letting her pick her favorites.” Whether you’re shopping for a newborn baby swimsuit or a growing toddler, RuffleButts’ swimsuits are designed to last. Jody told us her daughter has been wearing the brand for over three years, and they still hold up season after season.
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 two-piece baby rash guard set for girls
- High-quality design
- Swim diaper-friendly bottoms
- Matching family styles available
- Hand wash only
- Pullover style
This baby swim set from Tea Collection is equal parts stylish and practical. The tropical print adds a cheerful, vacation-ready vibe, while the two-piece design includes a long-sleeve rash guard and coordinating bottoms, both made with UPF 50 fabric to help protect delicate skin from the sun. Thoughtful details like the diaper-friendly bottoms, soft, stretchy material, and sweet ruffle trim at the hem make this set as functional as it is cute. Whether you're headed to the pool, splash pad, or beach, this suit keeps your little one comfy, covered, and ready for water play.
Sizes: 3-6 months to 4T | Material: 87% polyester/13% spandex | UPF rating: 50 | 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 for The Bump and mom of three
Best two-piece baby rash guard set for boys
- Thumb holes protect hands
- Soft material
- Easy on/off rashguard
- Some say top runs small
The Monica + Andy Rashguard Top & Swim Trunks Bundle is a smart, stylish pick for keeping your toddler sun-safe and comfortable during warm-weather adventures. The long-sleeve rashguard offers UPF 50+ protection and features a half-zip front for easy changes, plus thumb holes that parents appreciate for shielding little hands from the sun. The matching swim trunks are just as functional, with an elastic waistband and pockets for everyday ease. Made from a soft, stretchy blend of recycled polyester and elastane, this quick-drying set is perfect for beach days, pool play, and everything in between.
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
- Mix & match with Primary’s line
- Lightweight
- Made from recycled material
- Rashguard 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 elastic waistband makes them easy to pull on and off, and the built-in mesh lining helps keep swim diapers securely in place—ideal for splashing in the shallow end or scooting around in the sand. Made from lightweight, quick-drying fabric, they’re designed to keep your little one comfortable during and after water play. Available in several fun color-block prints, these trunks deliver a cheerful, retro-inspired ’90s look as practical as they are cute.
Sizes: 3-6 months to 18-24 months | Material: 100% recycled polyester | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry
Best budget-friendly baby rashguard
- Affordable plus frequent sales
- Gender-neutral style
- Easy diaper access
- Runs small
The Old Navy Bluey Swim Rashguard Bodysuit offers excellent sun protection and comfort at an affordable price—and with a character families love. This one-piece suit features a full zipper for easy on and off and hidden snaps along the inseam for quick diaper changes. Alex S., a mom of one, was a big fan of this feature on Old Navy swimsuits. She told us: “It's awesome that it has snap closure, so diaper changes are quick!” Crafted from a smooth tricot fabric blend of 82% polyester and 18% spandex, it provides a comfortable stretch and built-in UPF 50+ sun protection, shielding baby from 98% of harmful UV rays. The design includes long raglan sleeves and a banded neckline, ensuring style and functionality.
Thanks to the full zipper, parents appreciate the ease of dressing and undressing their babies, especially when wet. The Bluey character design adds a fun touch that’s both adorable and gender neutral. Wherever you plan on taking baby for some fun in the sun, this rashguard bodysuit ensures your baby stays protected and comfortable without breaking the bank.
Sizes: 0-3 to 18-24 months | Material: 82% polyester/18% spandex | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash
Best toddler rash guard for boys
- Quality material
- Cute, simple prints
- Some say top runs small
Quince’s Swim Trunk and Rash Guard Set offers a stylish and eco-friendly option for your little one’s beach adventures. Crafted from recycled materials, the set includes a long-sleeve solid rash guard and coordinating swim trunks, topped off by a playful shark print. The rash guard provides UPF 50+ sun protection, blocking 98% of harmful UV rays, while the swim trunks come with a mesh liner and drawstring waist for comfort and adjustability.
This set is chlorine and saltwater-resistant, ensuring durability through many swims. With sizes ranging from 0-3M to 5T, it's a versatile choice for various ages. Bonus, Quince's commitment to fair trade and sustainable practices means you can feel good about your purchase!
Sizes: Baby: 0-3 months to 18-24 months, toddler: 2T to 5T, kid: 6-12 | Material (rash guard): 82% recycled nylon/18% spandex | Material (trunks): 100% recycled polyester | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry
Best toddler rash guard for girls
- Back zip for easy changing
- Sweet skirt detail
- Gentle, quick-dry fabric
- Runs slightly small
- Popular patterns sell out fast
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 rashguard set for boys
- Washes well
- Elastic drawstring waistband
- Affordable
- Pullover rashguard tricky to get over baby’s head
- Would love more pattern options
When it comes to swimwear for little ones, you want something cute, sun-safe, and built to keep up with active play. One of my go-to picks for my boys is the Just One You Long-Sleeve Gingham Checkered Rash Guard Set. At just $21, it’s a great value and delivers on style and function.
This two-piece set includes a navy long-sleeve rash guard with built-in UPF protection and a mock neck for added sun coverage, plus coordinating gingham swim trunks with a comfortable elastic waistband and functional drawstring. I buy a version of this set every year for my boys—it’s easy and practical. I especially love the generous size range, which makes it easy to coordinate matching outfits for siblings with a cute, sun-protective, and functional beach look. Bonus –It’s also machine-washable, so it’s always ready for the next sunny day.
Sizes: 12 months to 5T | **Material (top): 83% polyester/17% spandex (top) | *Material (trunks):* 100% polyester | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash
Best budget-friendly toddler rashguard set for girls
- Soft, stretchy material
- Affordable
- Tumble-dry friendly
- Cute ruffle detail on bottoms
- Top can ride up
The Cat & Jack Toddler Girls' Long Sleeve Rash Guard Set is an affordable pick that doesn’t skimp on style or function. This two-piece set features a long-sleeve rash guard paired with coordinating bottoms made from a soft, stretchy fabric with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection. The ruffle detail on the bottoms adds a fun, feminine touch, and the easy fit makes it great for active beach or pool days. At just $15, it’s a stylish, sun-safe option that delivers serious bang for your buck. Even better, 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 (top): 83% polyester/17% spandex | Material (bottom): 83% polyester/17% spandex | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best toddler swim trunks
- Great length- not too long
- Made with sustainable materials
- Functional drawstring
- Need to purchase rashguard separately
Carter’s Toddler Recycled Ocean-Print Swim Trunks are a practical and stylish choice for little ones. Made from 100% recycled polyester, these trunks feature a covered elastic waistband with a functional drawstring, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. The UPF 50+ protection offers excellent sun safety, while the ocean-themed prints add a fun touch. My boys are in similar waist sizes, and they can pretty much share these trunks from Carter’s. It’s been such a convenient option during busy summer days. Plus, they double as casual shorts, making them versatile for swimming and play!
Sizes: 2T to 5T | Material: 100% recycled polyester | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash
Best full-coverage toddler swimsuit
- Quality construction
- Soft material
- Easy on/off
- Some parents say sizing runs large
If you're looking for serious sun protection without sacrificing style, the SwimZip Sunsuit Long Sleeve Romper is a standout pick. Available in a wide range of bright, fun colors and sizes starting from 0–6 months all the way up to 5T/6, this option is great for babies, toddlers, and almost-big kids! This one-piece swimsuit offers full head-to-toe coverage, including long sleeves, ankle-length legs, and a mock neck collar that adds an extra layer of protection for your child’s most sensitive skin.
Made from a soft, stretchy blend of nylon and spandex, it’s designed with comfort and ease in mind. The full-length zipper makes it simple to get on and off, and a built-in zipper guard protects delicate skin from rubbing or getting hot to the touch in the sun. Whether heading to the beach or pool, this suit makes it easy to keep your little one covered without constantly reapplying sunscreen. For families who spend a lot of time in the sun, this suit is a reliable go-to for safe, stylish play.
Sizes: Baby: 0-6 months to 18-24 months, toddler: 2T to 5T/6 | Material: Nylon/spandex blend | UPF rating: 50+ | Care instructions: Machine wash
Infant swimsuits aren’t one size fits all. Here’s a breakdown of all the different types of swimwear for your little ones.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
About the writer:
Christine Carpenter is a New York-based storyteller and devoted mom of two young boys. With years of hands-on experience chasing toddlers through splash pads, beach days, and backyard sprinklers, she knows exactly what makes a baby swimsuit both practical and adorable. Christine combines her background in product development with her real-life parenting know-how to offer well-informed, thoughtful advice. Her goal? To help fellow parents (and gift-givers) find swimwear that keeps little ones safe, comfy, and stylish all summer long.
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, August 2024
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