Swimming nappies

Taking your little one swimming can be lots of fun but what kind of swimming nappies should you be using?  If you’re wondering what to look for in swimming nappies, then read on.

What swimming nappies are for

Unlike other types of nappies, swimming nappies are not designed to take in any water. Even disposable swim nappies, which do contain a small amount of padding are not really used to absorb liquid.  The main reason for this is that it would also soak up the water in the pool or sea while you were swimming, become heavy and possibly even start to weigh your little one down.  Unless there was a perfect waterproof seal around the legs and waist, it would also be impossible to separate out any urine from the water you were swimming in.  The point of swim nappies is actually to stop any solid accidents from escaping into the water.  Although many parents take their little ones swimming regularly without having to deal with a ‘poo in the pool’ situation, being prepared just in case it should happen is a good idea.

What to look for in a swimming nappy

As the idea of swimming nappies is to contain solid waste, rather than liquids, then the main thing that you want is a nice secure, elasticated area on the waist and thighs.  This will help to keep in any little accidents.  The bambino mio swimming nappies that we stock have a drawstring waist that helps to hold everything in.  Swim nappies do not need to be waterproof, for obvious reasons, and can be made out of similar fabric to swimming togs too.  In fact many swimming nappies are the only items of clothing that your little one will need in the water, although you may want to wear more to avoid your baby getting too cold or burning.  You can wear swimming nappies underneath togs, rash suits or wet suits.

Other options

Some people use cheap pocket nappies with no padding as swimming nappies.  Although these will probably contain everything fairly well, you may find that they fill up with liquid while in the water, which isn’t ideal.  They are a good cheap option though.  If you want to go swimming and haven’t purchased a swimming nappy as yet, then disposable swimming nappies are good option.  Many people don’t realise that you can actually reuse these a number of times by washing them with your togs and towels after use.  If the nappy is unsoiled, then wash and reuse, but make sure that you check that the elastic around the waist and legs is still strong enough to hold anything in.  It will loose it’s stretch over a number of uses.

Reusable swimming nappies are a great idea for your little one, either at the pool, beach or for water play in the back garden.  They tend to be cuter and more reliable than the disposable swimming nappies.