Diapers & Potty Training Products The Best Swim Diapers for Every Trip to the Beach or Pool By Deanna McCormack Deanna McCormack Twitter Deanna McCormack is a beauty, parenting, and lifestyle writer who has written for Bustle, Byrdie, TheEverymom.com, and more. Learn about our editorial process and Katrina Cossey Katrina Cossey Katrina Cossey is a freelance writer covering topics ranging from local and national news as well as writing and researching for parenting content. Learn about our editorial process Updated on April 13, 2022 Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. A trustworthy and comfortable swim diaper for your kiddo can ensure a day in the water is fun for the whole family and accident-free! Regular diapers don’t work in water because they are designed to absorb liquids, including pool water. Swim diapers are made to withstand water while containing solids, which makes them a perfect option for kiddos who aren't potty trained yet. Available in both a disposable and reusable option, the best swim diaper for you is whichever is most convenient for your lifestyle or more likely, right for your budget. We carefully considered design, material, functionality, fit, and value when reviewing products.Here are the best swim diapers for babies, toddlers, and parents’ convenience. Our Top Picks Best Overall: i play. by green sprouts Snap Reusable Swim Diaper at Amazon Jump to Review Best Disposable: Huggies Little Swimmers Disposable Swim Pants at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Beau & Belle Littles Nageuret Reusable Swim Diaper at Amazon Jump to Review Best Trunks: Green Sprouts Classic Trunks with Built-In Reusable Swim Diaper at Greensproutsbaby.com Jump to Review Best Reuseable: Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Toddlers: Primary Swim Diaper at Primary.com Jump to Review Best Full Protection: Splash About Happy Nappy Swim Diaper at Amazon Jump to Review Best Diaper Cover: Pottery Barn Kids Diaper Cover & Reversible Hat at Potterybarnkids.com Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Family Best Overall i play. by green sprouts Snap Reusable Swim Diaper 5 Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon Pros Easy-lock snaps Three-layer design Machine washable Cons Sizing runs small Can fit high-rise style on some children Snaps only on one side We named the i play Snap Reusable Swim Diaper our top pick because of functionality and the durable material for longer-lasting use. Between the easy-lock snaps on one side that make taking off and on a breeze and the high-quality construction, these take the prize for best overall. The three-layer design includes a wicking liner that helps to prevent a diaper rash from developing on your baby's bum. The inner absorbent layer helps protect against messes when your little one is outside of the water while the waterproof outer layer provides secure protection. These are easy to use and affordable enough so that you can stock up. Price at time of publication: $15 at 6 month Best Disposable Huggies Little Swimmers Disposable Swim Pants Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Budget-friendly Leak guards for extra protection Cute designs available Cons Less environmentally-friendly Sizing can run small for some children May be hard to pull off when wet Looking for a swim diaper that won’t blow your summer budget or need to be washed while on vacation? Try Little Swimmers by Huggies. You can buy a whole package of these disposable swim diapers for about the price of one or two reusable swim diapers. While most swim diapers, disposable or otherwise, don't effectively absorb urine, these make number two changes super easy thanks to the easy-open sides. The disposable feature means no sloshing yucky diapers in the toilet while missing out on the fun in the sun—just throw the soiled diaper away and start fresh. Price at time of publication: $28 at small (24 count) Best Budget Beau & Belle Littles Nageuret Reusable Swim Diaper Amazon View On Amazon Pros Machine washable and reusable Snaps adjust around waist/legs Exterior is waterproof Cons Can feel thin to the touch Sizing runs small for some children May take longer for diapers to dry out fully The Nageuret swim diapers are adjustable from newborn to size 5 making them the only swim diaper you will ever need. The diaper has a waterproof outer shell made of polyester cloth with one-of-a-kind patterns, and the inside is a premium soft polyester mesh designed for easy wash. The unique waterproof exterior and soft interior make for a protective and comfy swim. With a superior adjustable fit, this swim diaper is great to have on hand for your toddlers that aren't quite potty trained and need added protection. If you are unsatisfied this family-owned business will refund your money and send you a new diaper. Price at time of publication: $19 Best Trunks Green Sprouts Classic Trunks with Built-In Reusable Swim Diaper Courtesy of Green Sprouts View On Greensproutsbaby.com Pros Built-in swim diaper Triple-layer design UPF 50+ sun protection Cons Can run small in sizing May fit too low on some children (low-rise) Not available in sizes under 6 months These 2-in-1 swim trunks from Green Sprouts feature a built-in swim diaper, making them perfect for your water-loving toddler who wants to hit the beach like a big kid. They are built with lightweight material to move freely and not feel weighed down while they're enjoying swimming. The triple-layer design offers a wicking layer that helps prevent diaper rash, the inner absorbent layer protects against accidents outside the pool, and the last outer layer while being waterproof, is snug-fitting around the waist and leg. We like this option if you are looking for an alternative to the standard diaper look. Price at time of publication: $20 The 11 Best Baby Beach Products of 2023 Best Reuseable Charlie Banana Reusable and Washable Swim Diaper Amazon View On Amazon View On Charliebanana.com Pros Internal adjustable drawstring More than 30 patterns to choose from Waterproof outer layer Cons Should not be washed with fabric softener Strings may get stuck inside diaper band Must be pulled on and off We love the Charlie Banana reusable swim diaper for its soft like butter hand feel, waterproof outer layer and highly absorbent inside that will leave your little one rash-free. With four different sizes to choose from, you'll find the right fit for your little swimmer. The wide elastic back paired with the adjustable drawstring waistband creates a snug yet comfy fit. These come in four different sizes and have a functional drawstring. Price at time of publication: $16 Best for Toddlers Primary Swim Diaper Courtesy of Primary View On Primary.com Pros UPF 50+ sun protection Sizing as low as 3 to 6 months Water-resistant lining Cons Waistband cannot be adjusted Sizing may run big for some children Can take diaper a long time to fully dry This reusable diaper by Primary is simple and breathable, feeling less bulky than a regular diaper and a top choice to be worn all day. The outer layer is made of 80 percent recycled nylon and 20 percent spandex with a UPF 50 rating to keep them protected while they splash around in the water and sun. Price at time of publication: $10 The 13 Best Diapers of 2023 Best Full Protection Splash About Happy Nappy Swim Diaper Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon Pros Sizing as low as newborns UPF 50+ sun protection Rear panels and snug ribs provide flexible fit Cons Nappy Wrap and liners sold separately Sizing runs small for some children Not machine washable The Splash About swim diaper’s patented design will keep your mind at ease if you are worried about fecal leaks. For your youngest swimmers, this diaper slips on to your little one with ease and keeps them dry. The material is high quality and made of soft, thick neoprene that provides a flexible fit. The unique ribbing on the fabric around the waist and thighs acts as a way to stop fecal leaks. It can be worn on its own or with the Nappy Wrap and liners for easy cleaning that can be purchased separately. Price at time of publication: $15 The 18 Best Diaper Bag Backpacks of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Diaper Cover Pottery Barn Kids Diaper Cover & Reversible Hat Pottery Barn Kids View On Potterybarnkids.com Pros Machine washable Made of water-resistant nylon Cute design Cons Diaper must be used underneath Only three sizes available Diaper cover cannot be tightened Made from 100 percent nylon, this diaper cover is water-resistant and very durable for little ones getting in the water. Whether you're wanting to cover up a disposable diaper or just want a little extra protection, this diaper cover is machine washable, dryer safe, and even comes with an adorable matching hat. For a more snug fit, the cover features an elastic band around the waist and legs. Price at time of publication: $30 Here's Where to Buy the Best Bathing Suits for Your Pint-Size Swimmers Final Verdict If you swim often, save money and go with the i play. By Green Sprouts Snap Reusable Swim Diaper (view on Amazon). The inner absorbent layer helps protect against messes when your little one is outside of the water while the waterproof outer layer provides secure protection. If not, the Huggies Little Swimmers Disposable Swim Diapers (view on Amazon) are highly reviewed and easy to grab at any drugstore. What to Look for When Buying Swim Diapers Functionality The basic function of a swim diaper is that it withstands water while containing solids. They aren't necessarily designed to contain liquid, but waste instead. Everything else is a bonus. Think of what features might be most important to you. Maybe you want snaps on the sides for ease of pulling off and on, full protection from a diaper like the Splash About Happy Nappy, or a diaper you can toss after you swim. No matter the style, ensuring the functionality works best for you is just as equally important. Fit Finding a swim diaper that fits your little one the best may involve a bit of trial and error. In order for the swim diaper to do its job, the should fit more snugly than a regular diaper. Check your child’s regular diaper size and weight for guidance. Features such as the waistband or adjustable snaps might mean a diaper can fit between sizes or as your child grows. Some diapers also have an adjustable drawstring to ensure children get a snug fit to prevent any accidents from happening. Price You may want the most basic swim diaper that does the job. Longterm, a diaper that grows with your kid is a one-time purchase and is the most cost-effective option. Do the math on what makes the most sense for your lifestyle. It's also important to remember while a reusable diaper may cost more upfront, it can typically be washed and reused over and over. Depending on how often you're in the water, you may be spending more on disposables. It's going to really depend on your family's lifestyle and how often you're in the water. Frequently Asked Questions What is a swim diaper? Unlike a regular diaper that absorbs liquid, a swim diaper is designed to contain solids and let the liquid flow through like a swimsuit. Swim diapers allow your tot to hang out in the water without having to walk around with a heavy, soggy diaper. There are both disposable and reusable options to decide from. Do you have to put a diaper under a reusable swim diaper? You do not have to put a diaper under a reusable swim diaper unless the public pool you are swimming at requires both layers. We would recommend using a disposable swim diaper underneath if need be, as a regular diaper will absorb all the water and become very heavy to swim with. Why Trust Verywell Family Deanna McCormack is a copywriter and marketing professional who writes product reviews for parents and families. She lives with her two kids under 3 in sunny Arizona where they swim almost every day of the year. She loves the Primary Diaper for her toddler because it makes him feel ‘big’. 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