The Ultimate Guide to Swim Nappies

When the weather heats up, nights get hot and sweaty, babies moods tend to heat up too.

The best piece of parenting advise I ever got was to soothe grumpy babies and toddlers by putting them in water.

We know it is true for us adults after a hard day at work.

This can be any type of water play - fill some pots and pans, use a water play table, pump up the paddling pool, or if you are lucky head to the beach or swimming pool - keep a stack of swim nappies ready to go. 

With so many swim diaper options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. We'll explore how swim nappies work, the differences between disposable and reusable options, and answer all your questions about using them.

How Do Swim Nappies Work?

Swim nappies are specially designed to catch solid waste and prevent it from escaping into the water. Unlike regular nappies, they are not absorbent, allowing water to flow through while containing solids. Most swim nappies have three key layers:

• Outer Layer: A waterproof layer to prevent leaks.
• Inner Layer: A soft, breathable fabric for your child’s comfort.
• Elasticated Edges: Providing a snug fit around the legs and waist to minimise gaps.

This design ensures hygiene and safety in the pool. 

Disposable vs. Reusable Swim Nappies

Disposable Swim Nappies

Ideal for occasional swims. They can be disposed of after use but are much less environmentally friendly. If they are wax coated they can be rinsed, turned inside out and dried to be used a few more times. Throw them away if they are soiled. Most facilities require you to take them home with you for disposable as they don't have large scale sanitary waste facilities.

They can be ripped at the sides so you don't have to pull down legs when soiled.

Don't buy too many as baby will outgrow them if you only swim sporadically. Less useful for holidays as you would require a whole pack that can be bulky to fit in your suitcase, reusable swimming nappies will pack small and dry quickly in warm weather.

Reusable Swim Nappies

These are cost-effective for regular swimmers. Washable swim nappies are environmentally friendly and durable. They require rinsing and washing after each use but are often more comfortable for your child. They can be treated the same as normal swimwear unless soiled when they need a longer wash.

Swim nappies normally have side poppers for easy removal when soiled.

Most popular is the neoprene outer with snug waist and leg rounds but these aren't easy to remove if worn alone and baby soils them, if you need a double system pop a wrap or purpose made swim wrap underneath.

Choosing between the two depends on your needs, frequency of swimming, and environmental priorities.

Can I Use Regular Nappies for Swimming?

No, you cannot use regular disposable nappies for swimming. Disposable nappies are designed to absorb liquids, which means they quickly become waterlogged, bulky, and ineffective in water. They are hazardous and create a drowning risk. 

In my time as a swimming teacher parents often forgot their swim nappy so tried getting in with a regular nappy. They expand to ten times their size in seconds making it impossible for little ones to keep their head above water, it also risks filling the pool with gel filled micro plastics when they burst!

This not only makes them uncomfortable for your child but can also cause leaks into the pool.

Some elements of reusable nappies can be used as swim nappies, any parts that are PUL lined but not absorbent can be used - all wraps and pockets without inserts make great swim nappies. Be aware that chlorine may damage PUL overtime so use an old nappy rather than a favourite.

Swim nappies, on the other hand, are designed specifically for water activities.

Why Do You Need Swim Nappies?

Here are the top reasons why swim nappies are essential:

• Hygiene: Prevent contamination in the pool.
• Safety: Ensure clean and safe swimming environments for everyone.
• Comfort: Designed for movement and play in water.
• Pool Regulations: Many public pools require swim nappies for non-potty-trained children.
• Convenience: Easy to use and minimises mess.
• Reusable Options: Cost-effective and eco-friendly for frequent swimmers.
• Peace of Mind: Parents can relax knowing their child is secure and leak-free.

Do I Need a Disposable Nappy Under My Reusable Swim Nappy?

No, you don’t need a single use nappy under a reusable swim nappy, but some pools and swim schools require a double nappy system. This can be any two layers, reusable or disposable. Most opt for a neoprene cover over a reusable swim nappy.

Some swim schools will also insist older toddlers who have potty trained continue to wear this double system to prevent accidents and bacteria getting into the pool.

Whilst this may seem like overkill, my long potty trained son reacted to his pre-school boosters by getting an upset tummy and closing the leisure centre baby pool for the afternoon - then the showers too! So it can happen past toilet training.

Reusable swim nappies are designed to function on their own, offering a snug fit that prevents leaks. Adding a neoprene cover if the swim school requires it would work fine too.

Do Swim Nappies Hold Wee?

No, swim nappies are not designed to hold liquid, including urine. Their purpose is to contain solids while allowing liquids to pass through. This ensures the nappy does not become waterlogged or heavy, keeping your child comfortable and safe during swimming.

How Many Swim Nappies Do I Need?

The number of swim nappies you need depends on how often your child swims:

• Regular use: 2–3 reusable swim nappies to rotate between washes.
• Occasional use: A single reusable nappy or a pack of disposable nappies should suffice. Bear in mind single use nappies will be outgrown. Opt for a birth to potty reusable swim nappy.

Having a spare on hand is always a good idea, just in case.

Top Tips for Using Swim Nappies

• Ensure a Proper Fit: Check for snugness around the waist and legs.
• Test at Home: Try the nappy in the bath to check for leaks.
• Carry Spares: Always bring extras for emergencies.
• Follow Pool Rules: Adhere to any swim diaper policies.
• Rinse After Use: Rinse, wash and dry reusable nappies straight after use to prevent smells and mildew build up.

When Should I Stop Using Swim Nappies?

You can stop using swim nappies once your child is fully potty trained and can reliably communicate their need to use the toilet consistently without accidents. Adhere to the pools rules if they ask for extended wear by using junior swim nappies.

Swim nappies are a must-have for safe and enjoyable water fun with your child. Whether you choose disposable or reusable options, the right swim nappy makes all the difference.

Have questions or tips to share about swim nappies? Leave a comment below! If this article was useful for you, you might want to read - 

Best cloth nappies in Australia

Best Nappies for Hot Weather

Beginners guide to reusable nappies

Are reusable nappies hygienic?

If you need any more guidance, drop the team a line or come and find me on the online chat UK time 10am-2pm. We use the products everyday and LOVE to chat nappies, poo and wee, all day long, nothing is TMI and we all love to overshare based on our own experiences...

About the Author: Kirstin is part of the Customer Experience team at Cheeky Wipes, which since 2008 has been selling the original reusable wipes kit. She is mum to three kids and loves the forest, the sea and the hills!

Along with the rest of our crack team, she spends most days talking about poo, pee and periods and loves a chance to overshare. Cheeky wipes were recognised with a Queens Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development in 2021, celebrating their hard work over the last 13 years.