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Reusable Swim Diapers Pros and Cons: What You Need To Know

Posted by Lauren Petrullo on
Reusable Swim Diapers Pros and Cons: What You Need To Know

If you're a parent, then you know that swim diapers are a must-have for your little one. However, you may not know that swim diapers come in two varieties: disposable and reusable. Which is the best option for your family? 

Here, we will talk about reusable swim diapers' pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision. 

What are reusable swim diapers?

Most pool-going parents have experienced the dreaded moment when their little one announces they have to "go potty" - and there isn't a toilet in sight. The good news is that reusable swim diapers can be a helpful solution for these situations!

A reusable swim diaper is, quite simply, a diaper that can be used more than once. It is designed to contain solid waste *aka poop* when swimming and is commonly used by infants and toddlers who are not yet potty trained. Most reusable swim nappies have an outer layer of absorbent fabric, like PUL polyester. They typically fasten with snaps or Velcro to provide a snug, leak-proof fit.

However, we can’t stress this enough: swim diapers don’t hold urine!

A lot of people think that reusable swim diapers are just like regular diapers, but they can't be more wrong! Reusable swim diapers are designed to hold in solid waste, but they don't absorb urine like regular diapers do. So, if your kiddo feels like peeing, the liquid will go out of the diaper and directly into the pool. 

Reusable swim diapers vs. Disposable swim diapers

If you're a new parent, the thought of taking your baby swimming for the first time can be a little daunting. There are so many things to think about! What kind of swimsuit should you use? What kind of sunscreen? And don't even get me started on the swim diapers... Disposable or reusable? It's enough to make your head spin!

Here's a quick rundown of the differences between disposable and reusable swim diapers:

Disposable swim diapers are, well, disposable. You use them once and then throw them away. They are great for when you're on the go and don't want to worry about washing them out afterward. Additionally, they are handy for travel since you can just toss them when you're done. However, the nappies can be a bit more expensive long term than reusable ones and they're not as eco-friendly. 

On the other hand, reusable swim diapers are definitely the way to go if you go to the pool a lot and are looking to save some money, since you can buy one or two instead of having to buy a new pack every time, and be more environmentally conscious. They're also usually adjustable so you can get a better fit, which can be important since a snug fit is key for preventing leaks. 

Reusable Diapers Pros and Cons: The Benefits 

We know that pooped diapers are the last thing on your mind while you're out and about with your baby.

Reusable swim diapers can provide you peace of mind while swimming or playing in the water. That’s why there are several reasons why reusable swim diapers are a better choice than disposable swim diapers.

More fun for your children

They provide hours of fun at the pool for your kids without worrying about a diaper leak. Your toddler can enjoy swimming for long hours.

Doubling as swimwear, swim diapers could potentially make swim time much more streamlined and simpler. Unlike regular disposable diapers, you won't need frequent diaper changes when at the pool.

Moreover, this would help prevent diaper rash caused by the synthetic materials present in the diapers.

Eco-friendly

The primary reason why people are becoming more interested in reusable swim diapers is because of their environmental impact. These swim diapers are often more comfortable for children who frequently swim because they can wear them multiple times before washing.

Unlike disposable diapers that would stay in the landfills for years, reusable swim diapers are safer for the environment. They can be used more than once due to their washable nature and long life span. Hence, they will save you more energy and cost.

Reusable swim diapers come in different colors and patterns. Some are made of natural fibers that would lessen the probability of diaper rash.

Help protect your kids from waterborne diseases.

We all know that babies are little bundles of joy. But let's be honest - they're also responsible for some pretty disgusting messes. From blowouts to potty training accidents, it seems like there's always something messy going on. And when it comes to swimming, things can get even more complicated. 

Thankfully, reusable swim diapers can help to keep things clean and prevent bacteria from affecting your baby. Unlike disposable diapers, which can quickly become saturated and provide a breeding ground for bacteria, reusable swim diapers are designed to hold up against even the wettest conditions.

In addition, they fit more snugly around the waist and legs, preventing bacteria from coming into contact with the skin. As a result, reusable swim diapers can help to keep your baby healthy - and your pool clean!

More importantly, if you're in a public pool, state law would require the use of swim diapers. Reusable swim diapers would provide more protection for children, unlike disposable diapers. When choosing between reusable and disposable diapers, make sure to take into account the protection they get from either one.

More economical

The average baby uses an estimate of 8,000 diapers from birth through the duration of their potty training. That would be a lot of diapers filling up your trash can. 

Reusable swim diapers can make a dent in that number!

Reusable baby swim diapers are more durable and high-quality. The price per piece would range from $10 - $40, and most of the time, it would last several years. They are some of the most affordable swim diapers on the market, making them a worthwhile investment no matter your financial situation.

What are their drawbacks?

There are many advantages to using reusable swim diapers. However, it's also important to consider its disadvantages to be better prepared. Reusable swim diapers must be washed and dried after each use, which means you have to bring extra clothes on your trip to the pool or beach.

If this isn't planned ahead of time, it could lead to a lot of stress as well as wet clothing at best. This is one reason why other parents prefer disposable ones compared to reusable diapers: they don't require any prep work beforehand! With that, here are some of the cons of reusable swim diapers.

Harder cleaning

Reusable swim diapers require a bit more care and maintenance than disposables - you'll need to wash them after each use, and they can take longer to dry.

Additionally, reusable swim diapers come with pretty clear instructions on how to wash and dry them correctly. For example, they should not be soaked in bleach or other chemicals that might damage their fabric material; instead, you should wash them with warm water and soap along with the rest of your laundry.

Difficult to remove when wet

Sometimes, reusable swim diapers without snaps can be difficult to remove when wet. This is because the diaper is so snuggly and adheres perfectly to the baby’s skin that it can make it harder to take them off. 

However, there are many reusable swim diapers with adjustable snaps that, while fitting perfectly in your kiddo’s waist and tummy, can help you to remove them easily. 

May cause discomfort to babies

Some children may feel uncomfortable with reusable swim diapers on them during swim time. They may feel restricted or uncomfortable when they move around in them.

For this, many swim diapers brands, including ours, have created nappies with a comfortable elastic waistband, so kids can move freely and enjoy pool time with no restrictions. 

It needs to be properly fitted for maximum protection

It's important to buy swim diapers that are of the right size so they can properly do their job. If swim diapers are too loose, they may allow leakage or get caught in swim rings. This is why it's essential to buy swim diapers that fit your babies well

There are also swim diapers with adjustable snaps, so you won't have to worry about throwing them out if your baby grows. It's good that BBL swim diapers are adjustable so you can have a carefree experience at the beach or that pool.

Extra loads of laundry 

After swimming, all of the swim diapers need to be laundered. Soiled diapers are the last thing you want to deal with.

This is an added chore that some parents may not have time for or don't want to do more laundry.

Here are also some factors you should look out for when choosing between reusable and disposable diapers for your newborn babies or toddlers.

Which is better for swimming? Reusable or disposable?

Reusable swim diapers are made to hold up against water and chlorine specifically, so they're a better choice if you're looking for something that will provide maximum protection against poop leaks.

Although disposable swim diapers do their job well and are convenient, they may not be as resistant to water and chlorine as reusable swim diapers are.

Overall, both reusable and disposable swim diapers have their pros and cons- it just depends on what you're looking for in a swimming diaper!

What to look for in reusable swim diapers?

When looking for a reusable swim diaper, it's important to find one made of high-quality material and fits well. Reusable swim diapers come in different sizes and styles, so it's important to try a few on before purchasing to get the perfect fit for your child!  

You'll also want to find a swimming diaper that is easy to clean- preferably one that can be machine washed and dried. 

Essentially some of the things you need to take note of are:

  • Price per unit 
  • Ease of use
  • Leak protection ability
  • Comfort of fit
  • How cute your baby looks in them!

Before investing in reusable swim diapers, keep these factors in mind.

Final Thoughts

All in all, reusable swim diapers are a great option for parents who want to enjoy themselves at the pool without stressing about a poop accident. There are some cons (like having to rinse them out and hang them up to dry), but the pros (like being able to use them multiple times and saving money) definitely outweigh them. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get your kiddos some reusable swim diapers and enjoy your time at the pool – poop-free! 

Ready to get started? Visit our shop and choose the perfect style for your needs. We know you’ll love them as much as we do.

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