CheapTweet Blog

In this edition of the Happy Hatchling, Heather – mom and CheapTweet guest blogger – shares a list of swim essentials. Be sure to follow Heather on Twitter!

Planning on taking a summer vacation? Do you plan on spending time at the pool? Don’t go unprepared!  Here is a list of the essential items you need for going to the pool with your baby. Make sure you purchase these items before you go on vacation, because finding an infant float and swimming diaper can be difficult in a vacation spot or you’ll pay too much money (I know from experience)! Be safe and have fun!!!

1) Huggies Little Swimmers

The best way to stay welcome at the pool with your little one is to provide them with the correct swimwear (i.e., no one wants poop in the pool). These diapers were designed specifically for taking your kid swimming.  If you take your kid swimming in his/her regular Huggies, they will fill to capacity with water.  The Little Swimmers fit under your kid’s swimsuit and are disposable, which is great on vacation where you don’t have easy access to a washing machine. Washable swim diapers are also available and good for the pool close to home. Whether you have disposable or washable diapers, they all absorb some water so change your kid into a fresh diaper when she is done swimming to avoid diaper rash or chafing.

2) Sunscreen

Protect your child’s skin by always applying sunscreen. Look for sunscreen that has a high SPF (>30), and is waterproof and hypoallergenic.

3) An adorable bathing suit or a UV protective suit

Little kid swimsuits can be super cute so I have a hard time purchasing just one.  The UV suits are not as fashionable, but they provide excellent sun protection and they have more coverage for the active infants or toddlers that like to play on the ground.

4) Swimming Pool Float

I’ve tried many swim floats with my daughter and the Swim School Baby and Me Combo Float (pictured) was my favorite because gives you a place to comfortably float alongside your kid. With this feature you can easily venture into the deep end and not struggle to stay next to your baby float.  The only downside is that it does not come with an attached shade like the SwimWays Baby Spring Float with Sun Canopy.

Finally, if you want some reading material on introducing your kid to the water, check out this book: “Learn to Swim: Step-by-Step Water Confidence and Safety Skills for Babies and Young Children”.

What are some of your favorite pool or beach accessories for kids?