There is a long list of equipment you need to take your little one swimming: disposable swim nappies, a changing mat, thermal baby swimwear, and most importantly, a buoyancy aid of some kind.
Whether a ring, a float, a swim seat or a buoyancy vest, your little one needs something to keep them in the correct position whilst they play and to support their bodies as they splash around. It is best to avoid baby neck swimming rings as these have been deemed 'potentially dangerous' to your baby, but there are plenty of floats below that are perfect for you and your little one.
Check out the best pool floats for you in our handy list below, suitable for babies from 0-36 months, so you can be sure there is something for you.
Kidadl's Top Pick
1. Swimways Baby Spring Float
This baby spring float is a part of the Swimways Step 1 swim programme, which was introduced to support babies and toddlers as they first become introduced to the water.
This baby pool float provides comfort for your little baby whilst they float and splash around and makes you feel safe and at peace of mind that they are well supported whilst they play. Your little one is tightly secured with the inner air chamber which stops them slipping through, and your baby can sit in the soft mesh seat to ensure both safety and super comfy swimming in the pool.
The Swimways Float Canopy model is also available, which comes with a sun canopy for UV sun protection whilst they swim, which is a great addition to any holiday equipment you need for your baby.
This is a very good bargain for a baby pool float, as it is super supportive and comfortable, all for under £10. Great for your baby from aged 1, this is an excellent budget buy for any holiday trip, and even comes with the repair kit should you have any issues.
This super simple, new design from Speedo is great for swimming pool fun on a budget. You can splash around with your baby as they enjoy the water and you can be sure they are safe and stable.
This product must be used under adult supervision.
Unlike other swimming aids, this baby pool float encourages the proper swimming posture for your little baby as it encourages them to lay on their front, facing down towards the water. The special supportive design also includes a safety buckle on your baby's back.
There are even sounding bell toys included, which encourages your baby to splash and play around to hear the sounds and will keep them entertained in the water for hours.
This is a simple buoyancy aid for your little one to gain confidence in the water and get used to splashing around. The seat supports your baby in three different ways - back, neck and chest - and the double inflatable rings encourage stability in the water, so you can be sure your little one is safe.
However, you must remain at arms reach of the baby pool float at all times. Your baby must have adult supervision in this Jojo Maman Bebe swim seat, whether in the bath, pool or sea.
Your baby is free to kick their legs and splash about with this inflatable swim seat from Zoggs. A well-known swim brand in itself, the Zoggs swim seat is also Amazon's Choice amongst its buyers, so you can be certain this is a good buy.
There are two different sizes available, whether looking from 0 months, or again from 12 months upwards, so this model is a great buy for longevity and support from a very young age. This is a great holiday buy for your baby, providing necessary support whilst playing and packing away quickly and neatly for travelling.
This twist and fold ring is a great addition to any swimming equipment as it is a non-inflatable model which means you are certain to get no leaks and it will not deflate at any point There is also a 5 point safety buckle and a crotch strap that runs underneath for double the protection, which means your little one is at no risk splashing around in the pool. Your baby can also spend time in the sun safely with the UVA and UVB safe sun canopy included too.
With an airless swim ring, you don't need to worry about packing a pump or blowing it up yourself, it is already assembled and ready to go.
This baby ring is a great buy for introducing your little one to the water. Sitting your baby in a supportive ring can improve their confidence greatly, which will make them much more comfortable when learning to swim further along the line.
This is part of the Speedo Learn To Swim scheme, so is specially designed for young, new babies swimming. This is for Stage 1, the 'Time To Get Wet' initiative.
This double swimming ring means that you and your baby can play together in the pool and you will always remain at arms reach to your little one. There is also a steering wheel and horn to play with, along with handles for additional support, so your baby will have fun and be safe. The canopy offers protection from the sun, producing endless shade for your baby to play in.
There is nothing more fun than making family memories and enjoying time together, and the HONGCI float makes that possible even in the swimming pool.
Kidadl Best Buys selects the top parent-recommended products across the web for families of all ages. If you liked our suggestions for swimming rings then why not take a look at our paddling pools, or for something different take a look at our recommended trampolines.
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Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature
Grace LeaBachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature
The oldest of three sisters, she was born in Portsmouth but currently studying at the University of Birmingham. With a 13-year age gap between her and her youngest sister, she enjoys finding activities that will make her the cool big sister. In her free time, she is an avid reader, writer, and has her own show on the university radio.
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