Taking your baby swimming in the pool is a great way for you and your baby to stay cool in the Summer. Does your baby love the bath? Then they will most likely love the swimming pool too!
It is adorable to see those tiny little baby feet kicking in the water as they are enjoying the pool! Instead of holding your baby the entire time you are in the pool, baby floats give your baby a little more supervised freedom to splash around.
The top 2 things you should be thinking of when choosing which of these pool floats is best for your baby are sun exposure and safety. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends babies under 6 months of age should be kept out of direct sunlight, so you will want to choose one of the baby floaties from this list that has a canopy on it for extra protection from the sun. You also need to choose a float for baby that is age and size appropriate. And if your baby loves the water, check out this list of great outside toys that include a splash pad and a blow up kiddie pool!
Must-Know Information on Baby Floats
Below is a list of the top 20 best baby floats. Each float is followed by a chart that contains the information you should definitely be considering when choosing which baby float is best for your child.
- Size and Weight: Choose a float for baby that is appropriate for your child’s age and weight.
- UV Protection: Especially if your baby is under 6 months old, you’ll want a baby float with a canopy with UV protection. The UV protection absorbs or blocks harmful UV radiation. However you still also want to dress your baby in a UV-protected swimsuit, hat, and later them in a doctor-approved sunscreen.
- Preference: Your baby may prefer one baby float over another. There are some baby floats where your baby is able to splash their hands in the water. On some floats, your baby may not be able to reach the pool water with their hands while in the float.
- Safety Features: Water safety is so important, and babies can still drown in pool floats. Be sure to check out the safety information for each baby floater.
You should always be within arms reach of your baby while they are in a pool float in the water. Even with the best of safety features, accidents can happen…like a pool float flipping over and your baby could be strapped into a float that is upside down. Think about a public pool where you have lots of irresponsible children also swimming around in the pool. A pool float is not a guarantee that your baby is safe in the water. Stay right next to your baby in the pool.
Types of Baby Floats
This list is broken down into the different types of baby floats. There are baby floats with shade,
The 20 Best Baby Floats
1.Swimways Infant Baby Floats with Sun Shade for Infants 3 to 9 Months
This baby float is made specifically for small babies. Most other baby floats are recommended for babies that are confident sitting up on their own. This, however, is in a laid back position and has a sun shade to keep baby cool. Your baby will not be touching the water while in the float. The float is recommende for babies 3 to 9 months old.
| Size and Weight: Recommended for babies 3 to 9 months old. |
| UV Protection: Has an adjustable and removable sun shade. |
| Preference: This is for young babies to float on top of the water. They won’t even get wet if you don’t want them to. Most appropriate for babies are not very mobile yet. |
| Safety Features: The float is designed for baby to float on top of the water and not in it. There is a place to strap the baby in the float and that is surrounded by a padded, waterproof cushion. |
2. LAYCOL Baby Floats with Removable Canopy
This floaty for baby is perfect for the baby that loves to splash in the water. Your baby is leaned forward and able to kick their legs and move their arms to create the swimming motion while having the protection of the float.
It has a removable sunshade with UV Protection. Pay close attention to the sizes and match up your baby’s age and weight to order which baby pool float is right for your child.
There are 2 swim ways for this baby pool float creating breaststroke and backstroke support. You can also turn your baby around on to their back and strap your child in, allowing your baby to float on their back. This float is sturdy, but still able to flip over without the no-flip tail. Adult supervision with the adult within arm’s reach of the baby is still required when any baby pool float is in use.
| Size and Weight: Recommended Age is 3 months-7 years. There are multiple sizes. Size Small: 3-6 months/11-18 pounds, 6-12 months/11-18 pounds Size Large: 3-6 months/18-25 pounds, 3-6 months/25-30 pounds, 6-12 months/18-25 pounds, 6-12 months/25-20 pounds, 12-24 months/11-18 pounds, 12-24 months/18-25 pounds, 12-24 months/25-30 pounds Size X-Large: 6-12 months/30-40 pounds, 12-24 months/30-40 pounds, 24-30 months/25-30 pounds, 24-30 months/30-40 pounds |
| UV Protection: Removable UPF50+ sun canopy |
| Preference: Baby is leaned forward and able to reach the water, the float is designed to help baby learn to swim |
| Safety Features: There is a 5-point safety protection harness to keep baby from slipping. It is also made of non-toxic material. |
3. SwimSchool Deluxe Baby Floats with Adjustable Canopy
This baby pool float has an easy-to-adjust seat so it can grow with your baby. The float is recommended for babies 6-24 months. It is a great starter float for your baby’s first time in the pool.
The pool floaty has a splash and play center so your baby can reach and play with toys in the open-mesh play area. However, if your baby likes to make big splashes in the pool, he/she will not be able to reach the edge of the baby pool float to get to the water.
| Size and Weight: Made for ages 6-24 months |
| UV Protection: Multi-position canopy that allows for 120-degree range and UPF50 sun protection |
| Preference: Keeps baby upright with an open-mesh play area…baby is not able to reach the edge of float but can play in the water that comes up from the mesh. |
| Safety Features: Features a multi-point adjustable safety seat, dual inflation chambers, child safety valves for security, and is 20 percent wider for superior buoyancy/stability in the water |
4. HECCEI Non-Inflatable Solid Baby Floats
This baby float with canopy is non-inflatable and made from pearl foam that is covered with soft waterproof skin-friendly leather and a full seal waterproof film.
The canopy is removable and has UV protection. You will love not having to worry about blowing up this float whenever you go to the pool. It’s just like taking your lifevest somewhere. There is no need to pump it up with air like you will most other baby floats.
| Size and Weight: Made for ages 3-24 months/13-40 pounds |
| UV Protection: UPF50+ Sunscreen Removable Canopy |
| Preference: When baby is lying on the swim float, they are able to maintain the breaststroke position to cultivate correct swimming posture. This is a non-inflatable baby float. |
| Safety Features: Has 5 support points, and a removable tail, plus a 40-degree angle to keep balance and to avoid the float from flipping over. |
5. Swimways Baby Spring Baby Floats with Adjustable Canopy
This is a very popular first baby float! It is made well and lasts for a long time. It has comfortable fabric, a cooling mesh, and a removable canopy for sun protection. Notice that the size recommendation starts at 9 months so this is not recommended for very small babies.
Your baby will sit upright while in this float and the float has a mesh area where your baby can play with toys. The float even has a few small toys that come with it.
| Size and Weight: Recommended for babies age 9-24 months, weight limit is 30 pounds |
| UV Protection: Adjustable sun canopy with UPF 50+ sun protection |
| Preference: These baby floats have an activity center with breathable mesh where water comes through. Your baby is not able to reach over the float to splash in the water outside of the float. Your baby will be sitting in an upright position. |
| Safety Features: Fabric-covered inflation offers added durability, while the wide base, child safety valves, and dual air chambers ensure security. |
6. Flamingo Baby Swimming Ring with Canopy Back Holder Baby Floats
This inflatable flamingo baby swim float is perfect for the animal-loving baby. It is recommended to start at 8 months old but your baby must be able to confidently sit up on their own. It comes in 2 different colors, a regular pink and a glitter pink!
These flamingo baby floats have a comfortable seat and backrest, a detachable canopy, and durable handles.
| Size and Weight: 8 months-3 years with a weight max up to 40 pounds |
| UV Protection: Removable UPF50+ Sun Canopy |
| Preference: Do not use with a baby that cannot sit confidently |
| Safety Features: Comes with a reinforced seat. The thickened inflatable seat cushion is made to be comfortable for baby. Made from eco-friendly PVC material. |
7 & 8. Poolmaster Mommy and Me Swimming Baby Floats
Poolmaster Mommy and Me Swimming Pool Baby Rider, 1 Child
Poolmaster Mommy & US Swimming Pool Baby Rider, 2 Child, Multicolor
These baby floats have a great little mommy-and-me feature. An adult has a comfortable place to stand in the half-tube opening, giving them the perfect place to rest their forearms while steering baby in the float. All baby floats are supposed to have an adult within arms reach of the baby, and this float helps make that more comfortable for the adult!
There is also an option for a 2 child float that also includes the mommy-and-me feature for the adult.
| Size and Weight: Recommended for ages 8-24 months |
| UV Protection: Detachable and/or retractable canopy provides sun protection as needed. |
| Preference: This baby float gives ample leg room for baby to kick, but your baby may not be able to reach the water with their arms from inside the float. |
| Safety Features: The only safety information listed for this baby float is that adult supervision is required. However, they do make that easier by making a place for the parent in the pool float. |
9.Swimways Mommy and Me Baby 9 to 24 Months Baby Floats
SwimWays Mommy and Me Baby Floats with Canopy
Unlike the last mommy-and-me baby float, this one is covered with a durable fabric over the inflated baby float. Making it more comfortable for you to interact with your baby face-to-face. Swimways is a very popular brand of baby floats and also made our list of top baby floats on #4 for their float without the attachment for an adult.
| Size and Weight: Recommended for baby 9-24 months old |
| UV Protection: Comes with a detachable canopy for shade |
| Preference: Has a mesh area so baby cannot reach the edge. The adult has a comfortable float to lean on as they stay close and supervise baby. |
| Safety Features: Fabric-covered inflation offers added durability, while the wide base, child safety valves, and dual air chambers ensure security. |
*The Rest of the Baby Floats Do NOT Include A Canopy/Sun Shade
10. Free Swimming Baby Inflatable Baby Floats
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This baby float does not come with a sun canopy, however, there is a newer version that comes with a sunshade that you can find here.
These baby floats are in a horizontal position to promote correct posture for babies to learn to kick and practice swimming. There is also a non-inflatable sponge chest support that is against your baby’s stomach so that it will be softer on your baby’s skin.
| Size and Weight: Recommended for ages 3-7 months old, weight 11-24 pounds (size S), ages 5-18 months old, weight 13-38 pounds (size L), ages 1.5-6 years old, weight 28-48 pounds (size XL) |
| UV Protection: None |
| Preference: Baby is in more of a horizontal position to learn to kick and swim opposed to a vertical position you will see in other floats |
| Safety Features: Ideal swimming posture for babies, raised front and widened sizes to help prevent flipping, soft bottom support to avoid baby sliding out |
11. Baby Swimming Ring Baby Floats with Safety Seat
These baby floats give your baby more freedom to move around. There is not a harness or mesh ring surrounding them like the other floats you’ve seen. It is a seat for your baby attached to a swimming ring. This allows your baby to splash with their hands and kick with their feet around the pool.
It also makes it easy for your baby to stand or sit on the pool stairs because they are in a vertical position. However, there is no shade that comes with it so your baby will need other forms of sun protection.
| Size and Weight: Recommended for babies aged 6-12 months. The max weight is 30 pounds. |
| UV Protection: There is no sun shade with this product. |
| Preference: This float allows babies to splash in the water with their hands and stand or sit on the stairs while they inside the float. |
| Safety Features: Double safety valves and dual air chambers design ensure security. A reinforced swimming seat helps prevent baby from slipping. |
12. Intex My Baby Floats
This baby float is very similar to the last one on our last, but it is not transparent. It is, however, much less expensive. This baby float features a large outer ring and a smaller inner ring for added safety and stability.
| Size and Weight: 33 pound max weight limit, Recommended for 12 months to 2 years of age |
| UV Protection: Does not come with a sun shade. |
| Preference: Baby probably will not be able to reach the water with their hands because of the double ring feature. |
| Safety Features: 2 air chambers and a large outer ring and smaller inner ring for stability. |
13. Inflatable Baby Floats Swimming Ring with Sun Canopy
Inflatable Baby Pool Float Swimming Ring with Sun Canopy with Inflator Pump,Waterproof Carry Bag
Something you’ll love about these baby floats with canopy is that it comes with a handheld pump to inflate it AND a bag to store it in when it’s deflated and not in use. The canopy/sun shade is removable and the baby float has a steering wheel attached for your baby to enjoy and hold on to.
| Size and Weight: Age Recommendation is for 6-36 months and up to about 44 pounds |
| UV Protection: There is a removable canopy to provide shade when needed for baby. |
| Preference: Baby will be able to kick their feet in the water but will not be able to reach the water with their hands. |
| Safety Features: This is an inflatable toy. You need to make sure the part your baby sits in is in good condition before each use. If the plastic part snaps (where the leg holes are), your baby will go into the water. |
14.Yoofoss Toddler Sleep Sack: 100% Cotton Toddler Sleeping Bag
This is perfect if you are looking for a baby swim vest as opposed to baby floats. Most swim vests are for children weighing between 30-50 pounds, but this one starts at 22 pounds. This baby swim vest has nylon straps over the shoulders, double-buckle straps in the back, and the back buckles are childproof.
| Size and Weight: Most suitable for children that are 30-50 pounds, HOWEVER, the description says it is also compatible for children starting at 22 pounds and as young as 1 or 2 years old. |
| UV Protection: None |
| Preference: This is a baby float that you will have to stay right with your baby to see if it will work for them. They could easily lean forward and get water in their mouths. This would be most appropriate for a child that is close to 2 years old. |
| Safety Features: Double Childproof buckle straps, shoulder harness, and arm floaties that do not have to be inflated. |
15.Swimways Infant Baby Floats with Sun Shade for Infants 3 to 9 Months
This baby float is made specifically for small babies. Most other baby floats are recommended for babies that are confident sitting up on their own. This, however, is in a laid back position and has a sun shade to keep baby cool. Your baby will not be touching the water while in the float. The float is recommende for babies 3 to 9 months old.
| Size and Weight: Recommended for babies 3 to 9 months old. |
| UV Protection: Has an adjustable and removable sun shade. |
| Preference: This is for young babies to float on top of the water. They won’t even get wet if you don’t want them to. Most appropriate for babies are not very mobile yet. |
| Safety Features: The float is designed for baby to float on top of the water and not in it. There is a place to strap the baby in the float and that is surrounded by a padded, waterproof cushion. |
Baby Floats Honorable Mentions
These baby floats do not have many reviews yet and are not the most popular, but are worth taking a look at if you have not found something you are looking for from the list above.
- Baby Swimming Pool Float Shark Ring
- Car Shaped Baby Pool Floats
- Mambobaby Float for Infant with Adjustable Straps
- HECCEI Self-Inflating Float with Canopy
- Umbresen Inflatable Swim Ring with Seat and Handles
All of the baby floats listed above can be found on Amazon! If you don’t have an Amazon Prime account, sign up for a 30-day free trial here and get unlimited free 2-day shipping with no minimum order size!
FAQ’s about Baby Floats
“What floats are best for babies?”
The first thing you look for in a baby float is the safety features and that your baby meets the age and weight recommendation for that floatation device. You also want to think about protection from the sun and if you would like for your float to provide shade. Lastly, preference….you may order the most expensive baby float on the internet and your baby could refuse to sit in it and be content. It may take a few floats for your to find one that your baby enjoys. Thankfully, Amazon has a great return policy, so check out my list of great baby floats you can find on Amazon!
“What age can baby go in pool?”
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not have a specific age recommendation for when babies can start going into the pool. The important things to remember about taking a baby to the pool are sun protection and that the pool water is not too cold. You also need to take into consideration the germs they could be exposed to in a public pool. Most pediatricians recommend waiting until at least 6 months until your baby is ready to go in the pool. Whenever you decide to let your baby experience the water, make sure to follow water safety rules. Infants are able to drown in just 1 to 2 inches of water.
“What age can babies use arm floaties/arm bands?”
Arm floaties are recommended for children that weigh around 30 pounds which is typically around 2 years old. Even with arm floaties, an adult still needs to be within arm reach of the baby or toddler that is wearing armbands.
Elejolie Kid Swim Vest for Child Learn Swiming Training,Infant Safety Swim Aid Jacket for Toddler Arm Wings for Baby 22-66lbsMoKo Swim Arm Bands for Kids, Toddlers Begin to Swim Inflatable Pool Floats Sleeves, Swim Training Aids, Crabby
“What should my 3 month old wear swimming?”
Sunscreen is not recommended for babies until they are at least 6 months old. Your 3-month-old needs to wear swimwear that covers their skin from being sunburned. This includes a long sleeve rash guard and a hat that has SPF protection. Below is a sunhat that also protects their neck from being sunburned.
Even with this sun protection, a 3-month-old should not be in direct sunlight. Try to find shade and avoid when the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.
SimpliKids UPF 50+ UV Ray Sun Protection Baby Hat w/Neck Flap,Light Blue,0-12 Months
“How do you choose a baby float?”
Choosing a baby float depends on your child’s age and weight, the float’s safety-features, if the float provides shade for your baby, and your baby’s preference. Your baby may prefer one baby float over another because they are able to move around more, reach the water with their hands to splash in, or they find one more comfortable, etc.
“Is a swim vest better than armbands?”
A toddler swim vest provides more protection and helps your child stay above the water better. However, arm bands are less restrictive than swim vests and allow your child to move around in the pool more freely.
“What is the best floaty?”
This depends on what you’re looking for! There are so many things to consider when choosing the best floaty. You will need to consider the weight recommendations, the safety features, UV protection, and which float features you prefer. Check out my list of the 20 best baby floats!
Baby Floats Conclusion
Baby floats are such a great way to allow babies to experience the water without having to hold them in your arms the entire time they are in the pool. Remember not to let the use of baby floats in pool to give you false assurance that your baby is safe. Baby pool floats are not life saving flotation devices. An adult needs to be within arm reach of babies in floats at al times.
Make sure to check out the links below for addional information on water safety and sunlight exposure to keep your babies safe in the water.
Baby Floats: Additional Resources on Keeping Children Safe in/near Water
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Infant Water Safety
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Sun Safety and Protection Tips
- Safe Kids Worldwide: Swimming Safety for Babies
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