Wetsuits aren’t just for kids and adults, babies need them, too! Before they reach the age of two, babies are still unable to regulate their body temperature. They easily get cold when bathing, more so when they’re swimming in non-heated pools. Without the insulation and protective layers a wetsuit provides, a baby might shiver uncontrollably, lose body heat, and eventually — get hypothermia.
Keep reading for an in-depth review of the best baby wetsuits based on other parents’ reviews!
Table of Contents
What are baby wetsuits?
Baby wetsuits can be considered a safety measure for babies. It doesn’t just help preserve their body heat, it also acts as a barrier from the harsh rays of the sun. Aside from that, a wetsuit also provides added protection against jellyfish stings, water irritants, and other skin abrasions.
Top 7 Best Baby Wetsuits
Everyone must enjoy their time in the water — including your baby. That’s why we searched high and low for the best baby wetsuits that’ll give every parent peace of mind. Say “Buh-bye” to chattering teeth and blue lips. Whether your baby’s splashing in the pool or frolicking at the beach, these wetsuits are here to warm them up!
Here’s the summary of our Top 7 Best Baby Wetsuits:
- Splash About Baby Wrap Neoprene Wetsuit — (Our Top Pick)
- Konfidence Babywarma Baby Wetsuit — (Best Budget)
- Splash About Happy Nappy Wetsuit — (Best High End)
- Cheekaaboo Warmiebabes Baby Swimsuit — (Most Skin-Friendly)
- Swimbubs Baby Swimming Wrap Wetsuit
- Bbluv Warm Neoprene Wetsuit
- Lily&Jack Toddler & Baby Wetsuit
#1: Splash About Baby Wrap Neoprene Wetsuit — (Our Top Pick)
Specifications:
- Material: Neoprene
- Item thickness: 2mm
- Sizes: Medium, Large, 6-18 months, 18-30 months
- Other features: UPF 50+, Wrap design, Can be worn with swim nappies
On top of this list is Splash About’s Baby Wrap Wetsuit. Sure, its adorable and cute patterns might’ve caught your attention first, but this wetsuit isn’t just aesthetically appealing. It’s made from high-quality materials, too, with 2mm-thick neoprene that keeps babies warm even for longer periods in the water.
You can also put an end to the hassles of putting tight-fitting wetsuits on your baby. The design of the Baby Wrap wetsuit makes it easy to put on and take off. Just lay the wetsuit flat on a surface, put your baby on it, then wrap the straps around them with the Velcro fasteners. Voila! It also features a sleeveless design, so your water-baby can freely move its arms while they wear it.
Finally, the Baby Wrap has UPF 50+ that blocks the sun’s harsh UV rays. It’s cute, easy to use, and it protects your baby’s skin. This product ticks all the right boxes, don’t you think?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be worn with swim nappies inside | A bit tight. May need to order one size up |
| Made with non-slip material | No fleece lining |
| Has sun protection | |
| Easy to wear | |
| Cheap | |
#2: Konfidence Babywarma Baby Wetsuit — (Best Budget)
Specifications:
- Material: 80% Neoprene, 20% Nylon; Lycra lining
- Item thickness: 2mm
- Sizes: 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-24 months
- Other features: UV 50+ protection, Open flat design, Adjustable Velcro straps
Next in line, we have the Babywarma from the brand Konfidence — one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of baby swimming products.
The Babywarma wetsuit is made by combining various materials such as neoprene, nylon, and lycra. The nylon is for flexibility and ease of movement, while the 2mm thick neoprene material gives insulation if the water temperature’s a bit chilly. Then we have the wetsuit’s lining which is made from soft lycra to prevent your baby’s skin from chaffing.
The special blend of these materials also provides a better grip in the water. It protects your baby from slipping out of your hand, especially whenever you carry them around the pool as they practice their little strokes and paddles.
Dressing babies with the Babywarma is also a breeze — thanks to its open-flat wrap design and adjustable Velcro straps that give babies a snugger fit without it being too tight. The bottom opening feature also allows you to easily take the bottom of their wetsuit off for a quick change of nappies.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has soft lining to prevent skin irritations | Sizing is a bit big |
| Can be worn with swim nappies inside | |
| Difficult for babies to undo the straps | |
| Unisex | |
#3: Splash About Happy Nappy Wetsuit — (Best High End)
Specifications:
- Material: Soft neoprene
- Sizes: Small to XXXL / For 0-24 months
- Other features: Incorporated with a swim diaper, Full back opening
Peeing accidents are normal with babies whenever they’re swimming. The water’s cold, and maybe the baby’s had too much milk to drink. In these kinds of situations, you need a wetsuit that can help prevent leakages — not only for no.1’s but also for no.2’s. Cue in our next product!
The Happy Nappy Wetsuit is also from the Splash About brand. This 2-in-1 wetsuit is integrated with its own swim nappies inside, which is very convenient for babies to use during short periods of swimming classes.
Unlike its competitors, this wetsuit offers full-body coverage with long sleeves. It’s also made from soft neoprene, and although it isn’t thick as other wetsuits, it works well in keeping babies warm even in non-heated pools. It’s non-slip so it gives a better grip for wriggly babies.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with its own swimming nappies inside | Size too small, tight-fitting |
| Keeps babies warm even in indoor pools | Expensive |
| Made from soft material | |
| Easy to put on | |
#4: Cheekaaboo Warmiebabes Baby Swimsuit — (Most Skin-Friendly)
Specifications:
- Material: Soft neoprene (double-lined)
- Item thickness: 2mm
- Sizes: Small to Large / For 6-48 months
- Other features: UPF 50+ and UV protection, Chlorine-resistant, Zipper closure
Being cold in the water isn’t fun at all, more so if you’re a baby that’s unable to maintain your body heat. Luckily, Warmiebabes’ wetsuits are made of double-lined neoprene with thermal properties that can keep babies from shaking every time the cool wind blows. Because once they shiver, it means that playtime’s over — and nobody wants that.
The Warmiebabes wetsuit provides babies with full coverage from the neck to the ankles. It’s quick-drying and has snug-fitting bands that control water inflow and outflow. This cool feature keeps your baby’s body warm as they play with their heart’s content.
Lastly, this wetsuit is skin-friendly, so it’s best for babies with sensitive skin. It doesn’t contain harmful chemicals such as lead and phthalates and is also tested by the SGS (Standard Global Services). Aside from that, this suit has both UPF 50+ and UV rays protection, so your baby can stay longer under the sun.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be worn with swim nappies inside | Sizing a bit big |
| Has long zipper enclosure at the back | Has buoyancy |
| Made with thick materials | |
| Quick-dry | |
#5: Swimbubs Baby Swimming Wrap Wetsuit
Specifications:
- Material: Neoprene
- Item thickness: 2mm
- Sizes: 0-6 months, 6-18 months, 18-30 months
- Other features: UPF 50+
Getting your baby dressed in swimsuits is hard enough — they move around, turn over, then cry if all else fails. Don’t worry, the Swimbubs’ wetsuit is here to save the day.
This product is designed to fit the most wriggly babies. It lays flat on a surface, and the only thing you need to do is put your baby on top of it, wrap the straps around them, and then secure the fit with the Velcro seals. Because it’s also adjustable, you can put swim nappies or diapers inside the wetsuit to avoid any accidents or leakages.
The Swimbubs wetsuit is also made from thick neoprene material, which helps retain your baby’s body warmth even in cold pools. Though it’s thick, it has a soft lining to prevent the wetsuit from scratching your baby’s skin.
Lastly, this wetsuit is slightly buoyant and can help your baby in the water. This works well if you want them to learn how to float. But it might come as a disadvantage if you’re trying to teach them how to dive.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be worn with swim nappies inside | Comes in pink color only |
| Made with thick neoprene material | Sizing a bit small |
| Has Velcro seals | Slightly buoyant |
#6: Bbluv Warm Neoprene Wetsuit
Specifications:
- Material: Neoprene
- Sizes: 0-6 months, 6-18 months
- Other features: Lightweight, SPF 50+, Includes a carry bag
Every purchase of the Bbluv Warm wetsuit comes with its own practical carry bag — but hey, that’s just a bonus for this amazing product. This well-made baby wetsuit is made from soft and bendy neoprene material that allows your baby to freely move while in the water. It also keeps them warm, while its coating gives them added SPF 50+ sun protection.
The Bbluv wetsuit is also lightweight and it opens flat, which makes it easy to put on or take off — even for the fussiest babies. It uses velcro straps, so even if your baby wears swim nappies underneath their wetsuit, it’ll still have a snug fit. Since the straps are adjustable, this wetsuit can still accommodate your baby as they grow a bit bigger.
Another reason why this product is one of the best baby wetsuits is that it comes in two lovely colors of grey and aqua. It’s minimal in print, so both girls and boys can wear it alternatively.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be worn with swim nappies inside | Stillf Velcro enclosure in front |
| Adjustable and lightweight | |
| Free carry bag | |
| Unisex | |
#7: Lily&Jack Toddler & Baby Wetsuit
Specifications:
- Material: 80% neoprene, 20% lycra
- Item thickness: 2mm
- Sizes: 6-12 months, 12-18 months, 18-24 months
- Other features: UPF 50+ protection, Zipper front enclosure, Hypoallergenic 1 year warranty
No parent wants their baby shivering and cold in the water. That’s why a dedicated father created the Lily&Jack Baby wetsuit with his own children in mind. Okay, this wetsuit may be the last on our list, but it’s definitely not the least. This high-quality baby wetsuit is packed with great features.
First off, it’s got thermal protection that helps maintain your baby’s body warmth in cold water. It’s made with neoprene material that’s chlorine and salt-resistant, so even if your baby stays for longer periods either in the pool or the beach, the wetsuit will remain soft and thick. The fabric is also integrated with UPF 50+ that protects your baby from sunburns and UV rays.
The Lily&Jack wetsuit is skin-friendly, too! It’s hypoallergenic, latex-free, and has flatlock seams to avoid skin irritation. Instead of using velcro straps, it has a long zipper in the front that has inner flaps to avoid scratching your baby’s skin. To top it all off, this baby wetsuit comes with a 1-year warranty. Now, that doesn’t come often in baby wetsuits!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be worn with swim nappies inside | Sizing too small |
| Features thermal protection | |
| Has 1-year warranty | |
| Hypoallergenic | |
Buyer’s Guide: Factors to Consider in Buying Baby Wetsuits
A baby’s skin is delicate and sensitive, that’s why simple swimsuits and rashguards may not provide them with enough protection that they need. In choosing the right wetsuit to buy, you must consider these factors:
Material
Ideally, a baby’s wetsuit should be made from neoprene because this material helps preserve body warmth when swimming in cold pools and windy beaches. High-quality baby wetsuits are made from combining this material with lycra or nylon for elasticity.
Item thickness
Wetsuits come with different thicknesses. Usually, they go from 2mm for newborns to 3mm for toddlers. For added insulation, some wetsuits have a fleece lining inside them.
If your baby has eczema, this feature might be useful as the thick material can help prevent their skin creams from being rinsed off by water. Keep in mind, though, that the thicker the wetsuit is, the more uncomfortable it’ll be for your baby.
Fitting
In choosing the right fit for a baby or infant, you must take into account the swim nappies they’d also be wearing underneath their wetsuits. A wetsuit that’s too tight can cause skin irritations, while one that’s too loose won’t perform its purpose of keeping your baby warm.
Skin protection
Using regular sunscreens may not be enough for long days under the sun as it easily washes off. That’s why you must choose a wetsuit that gives UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) — preferably one with UPF 50+ as it gives about 98% protection from the sun’s harsh rays.
Ease of wear
Choose wetsuits with Velcro enclosures, long zippers, and wrap openings. These will make dressing babies much easier.
3 Tips in Cleaning Baby Wetsuits
Regular cleaning of your baby’s wetsuit every after swimming session is important. If done properly, it can prevent build-ups of bacteria and nappy smells. It can also help the wetsuit to last longer.
In taking care of baby wetsuits, here are a few tips you should keep in mind:
Tip #1: Baby wetsuits made of neoprene material should be cleaned and dried thoroughly to prevent mold build-ups. For everyday cleaning, wash it with water, then hang it to dry outside.
Tip #2: Do not dry the baby wetsuit under direct sunlight because the sun’s extreme heat makes the neoprene material hard and lose its color. To preserve its quality, simply hang it outside in a shaded and windy area.
Tip #3: Avoid using harmful and strong chemicals in washing baby wetsuits that are soiled with urine or feces. Instead, wash it with mild soap or baby shampoo only. These products can effectively dislodge grease and prevent unwanted smells without damaging the wetsuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should babies wear with their wetsuits?
Swim nappies are essentially worn with baby wetsuits to prevent leakages in the water. Babies can also wear swim caps to prevent water from coming inside their ears, as well as life jackets and vests for added safety and warmth.
Q: What’s the ideal temperature for baby swimming?
Babies get easily cold when swimming as they don’t have enough body fat that can retain their body warmth. For this reason, the ideal water temperature for baby swimming is 30-32°C or 86-89°F. Any temperature lower than that can risk babies from getting hypothermia, while higher temperatures can lead to lightheadedness and vomiting.
Q: Can newborn babies wear wetsuits?
Some parents allow their babies to go into the water as early as 0-6 months after birth. Since newborn babies are still unable to keep themselves warm, they must always wear wetsuits.
G’day, my name is Rach Taylor and I’m the proud Founder of Surf Hungry. I am a former Australian Olympic athlete and Australian representative surf sports athlete. I’ve worked in the surf industry and lived at many of Australia’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which also rubbed off on my two young sons! I am also lucky to spend a lot of ocean-time in my favorite second home, Indonesia. In addition to SurfHungry I have founded several other websites in my areas of passion, namely coffee and rock climbing, and am also a regular rowing content contributor.
