Swim Diapers

About Swim Diapers

Is your child still in diapers? If you're planning on taking him/her swimming, you're going to want to pick up some swim diapers first. These swimming accessories aren't just more convenient than standard diapers, they're required wear for babies and untrained toddlers at nearly all public swimming venues.

As a matter of fact, it's a good idea to use these diapers every time your child swims. Why?

• Swim diapers are specially made to stand up to total immersion in water without bloating the way standard diapers do. Water passes through the material, so no soggy mess.
• A well fitted pool diaper will prevent baby's stool from leaking into the water, and will trap over 95 percent of the accompanying E. coli bacteria from ever reaching the water. This means higher water quality for all swimmers.

Styles

Pool proof diapers are available in disposable and reusable styles, so you can choose whatever works best for you.

Disposables

Disposable pool diapers can be extremely convenient to use. Brands such as Huggies' Lil Swimmers are widely available during swim season, and you can usually purchase them wherever standard disposable diapers are sold.

Disposables generally come in pull-on styles, but with tear-away side seams that allow for easy removal and clean up.

Reusables

A reusable swim diaper is composed of two layers. The outer layer is made from durable nylon, and is manufactured to resist chlorine damage. The inner layer is typically made from flannel or brushed cotton, so it's always soft against baby's bottom.

If you're concerned about adding more trash to our landfills, or just worried about finding disposables out of season, then reusable swim diapers are probably your best option. Be sure to keep several pairs on hand so you can make a quick change whenever baby needs it.

Swim Diapers for Older Children and Adults

Babies aren't they only ones who can benefit from wearing pool diapers. Many older children and adults who are either disabled, or experience incontinence problems find that swim diapers give them the freedom to get back in the water.

Typically, swim diapers for adults use velcro fasteners at the side for easy on and off access. This also allows the diapers to be adjusted a bit for a more comfortable fit. However, pull-on styles are available for those who prefer them.

Pool diapers can be worn discreetly under your normal one piece, or trunks so you can swim without worry.

Washing Instructions

Of course, if you opt for the disposable pool diapers, just throw them away as needed, and use a fresh one next time.

On the other hand, a reusable swim diaper is meant to be laundered after each use. These products all come with washing directions from the manufacturer, but generally you should:

1. Rinse any stool out of the diaper immediately.
2. Turn the diaper liner side out, being sure to re-attach any velcro fasteners to protect them from damage.
3. Machine or hand wash as directed in hot soapy water.
4. Never use bleach, since it can be harsh on the elastic.
5. Machine or line dry as directed.

Conclusion

Swim diapers actually increase water safety by keeping harmful bacteria better contained than any normal diaper ever could, and they aren't just for babies. Adults who normally use incontinence wear will be delighted to learn that pool diapers can give them the freedom and confidence they need to get back into the swim of life. Literally!

Where to Buy

Swim diapers can be found at nearly all local grocery and department stores, and can also be purchased from the following online vendors.

• PoolToy.com offers sizes for babies through adults.
• Gabby's, swim diapers for babies, children and adults.