How Do I Know My Kids' Swimsuit Size?

Keep your children comfortable all summer long by choosing swimwear that fits them well. Read on to learn the best way to determine your child’s swimsuit size. Plus, we’ve put together some tips for picking out the right swimsuit styles and fabrics.

How to Measure for Kids’ Swimwear

When figuring out what size swimsuit to buy your child, the first step is to take some basic measurements. If you’re measuring for a girl’s swimsuit, start with height, weight, chest, waist, hips, and inseam. All of these measurements, except for weight, can be taken with a regular tape measure. Compare these measurements to the size chart on the swimwear product page to determine which swimsuit size is the right one.

The same measurements can be taken to determine the best swimsuit size for boys too. Just as with girls' swimsuits, look for the size chart on the product page and compare it to your child’s measurements. That will help you figure out what size swim trunks and rash guard shirts to buy.

Choosing the Right Swimwear Fabric

Now that you know how to figure out your child’s swimsuit size, it helps to know about swimwear fabrics. If you’re shopping for a girls’ one-piece or tankini, look for a sturdy, stretch blend of nylon and spandex or polyester and spandex. Both nylon and polyester are excellent fabrics for swimwear because they’re soft and retain their shape even after repeated wear. And spandex adds plenty of stretch, so your child can swim and play comfortably. Swimsuits with Lycra® XtraLife™ spandex are always a good choice because this material lasts an estimated 10 times longer than regular spandex. Look for swimwear designed as chlorine-resistant for maximum wear—this fabric withstands chlorine, saltwater, sweat, and chemicals from sunscreen without fading or losing structural integrity.

Boys' swim trunks are typically made from polyester, although some may have a hint of spandex. When choosing girls’ and boys’ swimwear, look for a polyester lining. Lined swimwear provides plenty of coverage, and most also provide a sun protection level of UPF 50. You’ll still need to use sunscreen, of course, but swimwear with UPF 50 offers just a little extra protection for the skin covered by the swimsuit—which can be overlooked when reapplying sunscreen throughout the day.

Other Swimsuit Shopping Tips

There are a few other features to look for when swimsuit shopping for the kids. When choosing between girls' one-piece swimsuits or tankini tops, for example, adjustable straps are a must. And when buying boys’ swim trunks, a full elastic waist with a drawstring provides a custom fit. If your child falls between sizes, choose the larger size to make sure the suit won’t fit too tightly. You may even be able to get two seasons of wear out of one swimsuit.

Proper care of your child’s swimsuit can make it last a lot longer. Rinse girls’ and boys’ swimwear in cool water. If a wash is needed, use mild detergent and scrub gently by hand using circular motions. Rinse all the soap out of the swimsuit with cool water, and squeeze the excess water out. Lay the swimsuit flat on a towel, and then roll the towel up and squeeze to remove any water that remains in the fabric. Unroll the towel, and lay it in a shady spot to dry.

Choosing Cover-Ups

Rash guard cover-ups are an important part of any summer wardrobe. For boys, you’ll find short-sleeved and long-sleeved rash guard shirts in vibrant beachy colors and prints. There are hoodie-style boys' rash guards for even more coverage and a lightweight layer of warmth.

Girls have just as many options when it comes to cover-ups. There are girls’ rash guard cover-up shirts in the same sleeve lengths, so you can find one that provides the coverage you want. These shirts are made from polyester and spandex for comfort and ample stretch, and they provide UPF 50 for covered areas. There are also cover-up dresses that come in knee-length and ankle-length styles.

Beach and Pool Accessories

Now that you know how to find your child’s swimsuit size and what fabric to look for, you might also want to shop for some beach and pool accessories. Beach bags are good for carrying towels, sunscreen, spare clothes, and beach toys. Look for a bag made from a water-resistant material such as cotton canvas, with a spacious interior compartment and smaller compartments for items like cash, cards, and keys.

Water shoes are another summer essential. They’re designed to get wet, so kids can wear them in locker rooms or while wading along the seashore. Flip-flops are also good for summer. They come in sizes for the whole family and are easy to slip on and off.