Summer is fast approaching, which means parents are going to want to start thinking about what their kids need for summer. Of course, you will likely need to stock up on shorts, t-shirts, hats and sandals, but you will also need to start thinking about swimwear, too. Chances are your child has long grown out of their bathing suits from last year, making now the perfect time to purchase swimwear that they will not only love, but that is also safe. As parents, we do everything we can do prioritize our kids’ health and that includes dousing them with sunscreen when they are at the pool, beach or park. Their swimsuits can also play a big part in keeping them safe from the sun’s harmful rays. Many swimsuits are now made with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor)—just think of it as SPF for clothes—making it so kids can safely enjoy their summer while you have some peace of mind. Here are our picks for the best sun-protectant swimsuits for kids and toddlers.
RuffleButts Toddler Girls UPF 50+ Swimsuit
This adorable swimsuit is UPF 50+ and features a fun design. The long sleeves provide added protection and the rear zipper and snaps on the bottom make it easy for quick changes. It comes in several cute designs including flamingos, flowers and watermelons. It’s available in sizes up to 2T. ($30; amazon.com)
Bonverano Kids UPF 50+ Sun Protection One Piece
This UPF 50+ one-piece swimsuit comes with a matching hat for added protection. The fabric is also lightweight and quick-drying, and the swimsuit comes with a back zipper making it easy to put on. It also comes in 30 different colors, designs and patterns and is suitable for children up to 36 months of age. (Starting at $15; amazon.com)
TFJH E Girls Swimsuit Two Piece Swimwear
This UPF 50+ is great for active girls and includes shorts and a short sleeve rashguard. It has 4-way stretch and is lightweight, breathable and quick-drying. It comes in sizes for girls ages 3-12. This swimsuit will seriously let you cut down on the amount of time you spend applying sunscreen to your child. Bring on the fun in the sun! ($20; amazon.com)
TFJH E Boys Swimsuit
This two-piece swimsuit for boys includes a long sleeve rash guard and long swim pants. It also has a high neck to protect that sensitive area from the sun. If you’re planning a long day at the beach, this swimsuit is a great option to keep your kid safe from the sun. It comes in sizes for boys ages 3-12. (Starting at $17; amazon.com)
SwimZip Little Girl Zipper Short Sleeve Rash Guard
This zipper on this rash guard from SwimZip makes it easy for you child to slip into You won’t have to fight with a wet swimsuit once your day in the sun is done with all of those zippers. It has UPF 50+ protection and has a relaxed fit that will keep your kid comfortable all day. It features a zipper garage, ano-pinch zipper flap, and flatlock stitching, meaning nothing will irritate our child while they run and play. Plus, we just love the adorable pineapple print. ($33; amazon.com)
SwimZip Little Boy Zipper Long Sleeve Rash Guard Swimsuit
Just like the girl’s version, this two-piece rash guard and short set for boys features a relaxed fit and a zipper that makes it so easy to put on and take off. The UPF 50+ fabric provides all day protection from the sun, while the adjustable waistband and tagless neck make it super comfortable. The fabric is chlorine resistant, too! ($33; amazon.com)
Hanna Andersson Sunblock One Piece
If you’re looking for something stylish, Hanna Andersson has amazing prints and swimsuit styles for girls that are also safe. You can pair a matching hat, rash guard or sandals with this adorable one-piece suit. It runs from sizes 2-16 and blocks 97% of UVA/UVB rays. Sun protection never looked so good! ($40; hannaandersson.com)
Hanna Andersson Sunblock Shorts
These stylish shorts protect your child from 97% of harmful UVA/UVB rays and can be paired with a matching rash guard. They feature and adjustable waistband, poly mesh lining and mesh pockets. It runs from sizes 2-16, and we seriously can’t get over the adorable pineapple and ice cream truck print. ($44; hannaandersson.com)
Under Armour Helios Rash Guard Set
This relaxed fitting rash guard set is perfect for your active girl. From the beach to the pool to the volleyball court, your girl will be covered from the sun and comfortable all day long. The suit features 4-way stretch but will not lose its shape. It’s lightweight and fully lined for extra coverage. It has built-in UPF 30 sun protection and runs in sizes 7-14. ($40; underarmour.com)
Under Armour Volley Set
The fuller cut on this swim set provides added comfort for your boy, but can handle anything he throws at it. The fabric is UPF 50+ and salt resistant, meaning the colors and design won’t fade or wear in the water. The quick-dry construction will take him from the water to outdoor play in a flash. The shorts feature a 9” inseam and adjustable waistband with an interior mesh brief. ($40; underarmour.com)