5 Crucial Factors to Consider When Buying Kids' Swimsuits

Buying swimsuits for kids can be challenging! Kids grow out of bathing suits, and kids swimwear needs to be durable and flexible enough to stand up to the rigors of playtime - sand, salt, chlorine, running, jumping, wrestling, and more. Let's also not forget your child's comfort and safety.

So before you dive in to swimsuit shopping this year, take a minute to read through these tips and tidbits for making sure you get the right bathing suits for your kids, and for making your kids' swimsuits last the season.

Things to Consider Before Buying Kids' Swimsuits

Swimsuits for kids are fun to shop for, and it's even more fun watching your kid having a blast in their cute new suit. Before you shop, here are five things to think about before you purchase your kids' next swim trunks or bikinis.

Durability and Ease of Cleaning

Your kid's swimwear needs to be tough. While you're lounging on your towel, your kid is likely digging up sand or hunting for starfish in a tide pool, so it's crucial that what they're wearing - whether it's swim trunks, a one piece swimsuit, swim shorts, or board shorts - is tough and easy to clean.

Look at the label of your child's swimwear to determine the best way to clean it. Opt for fabrics like polyester and nylon over spandex - they hold up better to machine washing, and you may not always have time to hand wash your kid's swim trunks.

Often, a quick rinse in freshwater at the end of use will go a long way in maintaining the integrity of your kid's swimsuit throughout the year. If you do need to wash out sunscreen or a spill, opt for gentle detergent and avoid scrubbing or wringing the suit - this can damage the delicate fibers.

Sun Protection

One of the most important things to consider before buying kids' swimsuits is the amount of sun protection they offer. Bikinis and swim trunks are cute, but they leave a lot of exposed skin, and while sunscreen is definitely an option, it's no replacement for simply covering up.

Consider a rash guard or long sleeve top. Rash guards have the added benefit of protecting your kid from scrapes and cuts (because we all know they're going to run at the pool no matter how many times you tell them not to.)

The same study showed that the least visible colors were white and gray. The study also said that although dark colors show up well at the bottom of a pool, they could be dismissed as something other than a swimsuit.

Ease of Dressing

Swimsuits for kids need to be easy to get on and off. It's possible you may need to change your child out of one swimsuit and into another halfway through the day, and you probably won't want to be fussing with complicated bows, buttons, drawstrings and other fasteners. Same goes if your kiddo needs an emergency bathroom break.

Opt for swim trunks and swim shorts with elastic waistbands and bikini bottoms or one piece swimsuits with snaps in the gusset for easy bathroom access.

Fun!

Last but not least, don't forget that the whole point of beach and poolside time is fun! Whimsical prints, fun patterns, tie dye, bright colors, cute details - these are all things that will make your kids' swimsuits pieces they will love. Maybe you'll even want to opt for a matching set!

Insider Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Kid’s Swimwear

Once you've bought your kids' bathing suits this season, you're going to want to make sure they last. UV damage, chlorine, salt, and sand do a number on swimsuit material, but with a little care, you can prevent it from ruining your kids' suit before summer ends.

Hand Wash When You Can

We know, we know. Hand washing isn't always possible for a busy family. But at the very least, you should try to rinse your kids' swimwear with fresh water at the end of the day. Rinsing out the chemicals, salt, and sand will help to maintain the integrity of the fabric. You may not even need to machine wash the suit if you are diligent about rinsing it after every use.

Don't Machine Dry

Once you've rinsed the suit, hang it up or lay it out to dry. Avoid the machine when you can - the heat will damage the fabric and the tumble action can stretch the material and wear it out. Avoid drying in direct sunlight too - UV rays break down the fibers and decrease the life of the swimsuit.

Store Somewhere Cool and Dry

Once the suit is thoroughly dry, put it away somewhere dark and cool. Try to store it somewhere where it can be laid flat, without hanging. Hanging stretches out sleeves and straps, and clothes pegs can damage delicate fabrics.

Always make sure the suit is completely dry before you put it away to prevent mold and bacteria from growing in the fabric.

Summing It Up

Seeing your little ones enjoying the summer sun on your family vacation is one of life's great joys - and seeing them do it in a cute, comfortable, protective swimsuit is even better. Keep your kids safe and happy this year by following these simple tips for choosing and caring for your kid's swimsuit.