Do Babies Really Need Sun-Protective Swimwear? Here’s What Experts Say
Babies at the beach? Adorable. Babies with sunburns? Absolutely not. If you've ever wondered whether babies really need sun-protective swimwear, the answer is a resounding yes — and it's backed by dermatologists and pediatricians alike. Here's why it matters, what to look for, and how to keep your little one safe under the sun.
Why Babies Need Extra Sun Protection
A baby’s skin is thinner and more delicate than an adult’s, which means it's more vulnerable to damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Even a single sunburn during childhood can double the risk of melanoma later in life.
Worse still, babies under 6 months shouldn't wear sunscreen — according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. That means their clothing and shade are their only lines of defense.
What Is UPF 50+ and Why Does It Matter?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor — and it’s the gold standard when it comes to sun-protective clothing.
-
UPF 50+ blocks 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays.
-
Compare that to a plain white cotton tee, which only offers UPF 5–10 (and even less when wet).
If you’re planning a beach day, UPF 50+ swimwear is one of the most effective ways to keep your baby’s skin protected — without constant reapplications of sunscreen.
What to Look for in Baby Sun-Protective Swimwear
When choosing swimwear for your baby or toddler, here are a few key things to look for:
-
Full coverage: Long sleeves, high necklines, and leg coverage offer more protection
-
UPF 50+ fabric: Not all swimwear is created equal — look for certified sun-protective materials
-
Easy-on features: Zippers or crotch snaps make diaper changes and dressing simple
-
Soft and stretchy: Comfort matters when your baby is crawling, sitting, or splashing
👉 Check out our Emily Baby Sunsuit – Blue Stripe and Peachy Blooms Rashguard Set — made with buttery-soft UPF 50+ fabric designed for long days outside.
Don’t Forget Hats and Accessories
Even with full-coverage swimwear, certain areas like the face and neck are still exposed. Here’s what helps:
-
Wide-brim hats with chin straps stay put and shield the face
-
Sunglasses with UV protection protect sensitive eyes
-
Swim diapers or matching bottoms offer comfort and coverage in and out of the water
🧢 Pair our Baby Straw Sun Hat with any swim set for complete protection.
Sun Safety Tips for Beach Days with Babies
Sun protection isn’t just about the outfit. Here are a few smart habits to keep in mind:
-
Avoid peak sun hours (10 AM – 2 PM)
-
Use a beach tent or umbrella for shade
-
Dress your baby in breathable UPF layers
-
Apply baby-safe sunscreen (6 months and older) on exposed skin
-
Keep them hydrated and cool
Our Favorite Picks for Baby Sun Protection
We’ve designed our gear to make sunny adventures simple, stylish, and safe.
Final Thoughts
Sun protection doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right UPF 50+ swimwear, a few smart accessories, and some shade, your baby can enjoy beach days safely — and you can soak up the memories.
Explore all our baby sun-protective styles here.
☀️ Thoughtfully designed in Santa Cruz, California.