Best Non-Toxic and Sustainable Kids Swimwear: The Ultimate Guide to Safe Summer Sun Protection
Protecting our little ones with safe, sustainable swimwear is an investment in both their health and our planet's future.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical treatments in conventional swimwear can release toxins into both our bodies and the environment
- Look for UPF protection achieved through fabric weave rather than chemical treatments
- PFAS, benzophenones, and phthalates are key chemicals to avoid in kids' swimwear
- Sustainable materials include recycled nylon (ECONYL), organic cotton blends, and OEKO-TEX certified fabrics
- Top recommended brands include Reima, Snapper Rock, Quince, Primary, and Seaesta Surf
As summer approaches, we're all excited to see our little ones enjoy some fun in the sun! But as parents who care about both our children's health and the planet, we need to be mindful about the swimwear choices we make. Conventional swimwear often contains harmful chemicals and contributes to environmental pollution. Let's dive into how you can make safer, more sustainable choices for your kids this summer.
Why Choose Non-Toxic and Sustainable Swimwear?
Sadly, many conventional swimwear products contain chemicals that break down over time, releasing toxins into our environment, waterways, and even into our bodies through skin absorption. Since our skin is our largest organ, what touches it matters significantly!
Here's why making the switch to non-toxic, sustainable options is so important:
- Health Benefits: Children have particularly sensitive skin that's more vulnerable to chemical absorption and sun damage. Non-toxic swimwear eliminates potential exposure to harmful substances that may disrupt hormones and cause other health issues.
- Environmental Impact: Conventional swimwear materials like polyester and nylon contribute to microplastic pollution, shedding thousands of plastic particles into the water with each wear and wash. Sustainable alternatives reduce this pollution.
- Durability: Sustainable swimwear is often designed to last longer, saving you money over time and reducing waste. Many eco-friendly brands create products that can be passed down between siblings.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your child isn't absorbing harmful chemicals while playing in the sun provides invaluable peace of mind for health-conscious parents.
Harmful Chemicals to Watch Out For
When shopping for children's swimwear, it's important to be aware of potentially harmful substances commonly used in conventional products:
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)
Often called "forever chemicals," PFAS are a group of manufactured chemicals used since the 1940s in various consumer products, including some swimwear, for their water and stain-resistant properties. Scientific studies have shown that exposure to some PFAS may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals. These chemicals are particularly concerning because:
- They persist in the environment and in our bodies for extended periods
- They have been linked to a wide range of health risks, including certain cancers, hormone disruption, liver and thyroid problems, interference with vaccine effectiveness, and reproductive harm
- PFAS chemicals have been detected in various baby and children's textile products, according to tests conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG)
- According to the Environmental Working Group's PFAS guide, PFAS chemicals "pollute water, do not break down, and remain in the environment and people for decades"
Benzophenones and UV Filters
Some UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) treatments use chemical UV filters like benzophenones to achieve sun protection. Research has raised concerns about these substances:
- Benzophenones are widely used in personal care products, and biomonitoring studies have detected their presence in various human biological samples, raising health concerns
- Dermal exposure to benzophenones has been linked to skin irritation, allergic contact dermatitis, and photosensitivity, and may be associated with hormonal disruption and reproductive toxicity
- Benzophenone-3 (BP-3), commonly used in sunscreens and some UV-protective clothing, can penetrate into the bloodstream and potentially cross the blood-brain barrier and blood-placental barrier
- Studies indicate that benzophenones exposed to UV light can become more toxic, which is particularly concerning for products designed to be used in the sun
For more information about the health effects of UV filters, you can refer to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences research database.
Phthalates
These chemicals are often used as plasticizers to make materials more flexible:
- They can leach out of fabrics and be absorbed through the skin
- They are known endocrine disruptors that may interfere with hormone production
- Research suggests potential links to developmental issues, particularly in young children
What Makes Swimwear Truly Non-Toxic?
One of the most important factors in choosing safe swimwear is understanding how UV protection is achieved:
Fabrics with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings protect against harmful UV rays. But there are two ways this rating is achieved. Some manufacturers use harsh, toxic chemicals embedded in or coated onto the fabric. As these break down, the chemicals release into our bodies and environment. The safer alternative is UPF protection achieved through the tight weave of the fabric itself, which requires no chemicals at all.
Research has shown that cotton knitted fabrics can achieve excellent UV protection through the structure and tight weave of the fabric rather than chemical treatments. The material itself matters too - unbleached cotton contains natural substances that can absorb UV rays, while the weave creates a physical barrier against sun exposure.
When shopping for swimwear, look for brands that specifically state their UPF rating comes from the weave of the fabric rather than chemical treatments.
What Materials Are Best?
The safest, most sustainable swimwear materials include:
ECONYL® Regenerated Nylon
This innovative material is made from reclaimed fishing nets and other nylon waste that would otherwise pollute oceans and landfills. It's durable, chlorine-resistant, and offers excellent UPF protection when tightly woven.
Organic Cotton Blends
Some brands offer swimwear made from certified organic cotton (typically blended with a small percentage of lycra or elastane). Look for GOTS certification and products that are free from PFAS and BPA.
REPREVE® Recycled Polyester
Made from recycled plastic bottles, this eco-friendly fabric helps reduce plastic waste while providing durable, quick-drying performance in swimwear.
OEKO-TEX Certified Fabrics
This certification ensures textiles are tested and verified to be free from harmful chemicals and safe for human use, particularly important for children's sensitive skin.
Brand Comparison: Top Sustainable & Non-Toxic Swimwear Options
| Brand | Price Range | Materials | UPF Rating | Special Features | Size Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reima | $30-55 | Recycled polyester, eco-friendly materials | UPF 50+ | SunProof technology, quick-drying | 0-14 years |
| Snapper Rock | $35-60 | ECONYL, REPREVE, LYCRA® lastingFIT | UPF 50+ (weave) | Durable, quick-drying | 0-16 years |
| Quince | $20-40 | OEKO-TEX certified materials | UPF 50+ | Affordable, sustainable options | 0-10 years |
| Primary | $15-35 | 80% recycled nylon, OEKO-TEX certified | UPF 50+ (weave) | Mix & match, gender-neutral options | 0-14 years |
| Seaesta Surf | $35-55 | Recycled materials, ECONYL | UPF 50+ | Beach-inspired designs | 0-12 years |
Top Recommended Brands
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Reima
Reima specializes in functional outdoor clothing for active children, including their highly-rated SunProof swimwear collection. This Finnish brand has 80+ years of experience and has focused on sustainability from the start. They are equally focused on safety, which is why their products are 100% free from PFAs, PVC & heavy metals. Their sun protection products provide UPF 50+ protection through fabric structure rather than chemical treatments, allowing kids to play safely in the sun for up to 50 times longer than without protection.
Personal Experience: Our son has been wearing Reima products since he was a toddler, and I'm consistently impressed with both the quality and protection. Their rash guards and swim shorts have endured countless beach trips, pool sessions, daily backyard adventures and washing cycles while maintaining their shape and sun-protective properties. What I appreciate most is knowing he's well-protected without constant sunscreen reapplication on covered areas - a real lifesaver for active kids who don't want to stop playing for sunscreen breaks!
Snapper Rock
Founded in New Zealand and now popular worldwide, Snapper Rock creates UPF50+ swimwear that blocks 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays through the weave of the fabric rather than chemical treatments. Their sustainable collections use recycled materials including Econyl (made from discarded fishing nets) and Repreve yarn (created from plastic bottles). Their durable designs feature XtraLife fabric with LYCRA® lastingFIT technology for extra resistance to chlorine and UV damage. You can purchase their swimwear directly from our site by clicking on "Snapper Rock".
Quince
Quince offers affordable yet high-quality sustainable swimwear for kids that's OEKO-TEX certified, ensuring their products are gentle on both children's skin and the environment. Their UPF 50+ sun protection swimwear is designed to be chlorine and saltwater resistant, making it perfect for all summer water adventures.
Our family is a big fan of Quince and we've purchased many items for us parents and our son as well.
Primary
Primary focuses on making summer simpler with swimwear that's easy, fun, and eco-friendly. Their swim collection is crafted from 80% recycled nylon and a touch of spandex, with every piece being OEKO-TEX certified. With a UPF 50+ rating achieved through fabric weave rather than chemicals, their swimwear offers excellent protection while featuring simple, gender-neutral designs that are easy to mix and match.
Personal Experience: I've been dressing my son in Primary for a few years, and their swimwear has been a game-changer. Not only does it last through multiple swim seasons and can be passed down between siblings, but the material is very soft against their sensitive skin, and I love that I don't have to worry about harmful chemicals. Their simple, in many cases gender neutral colorful designs are easy to mix and match, and my son loves them! Make sure to size up, as they do tend to run a bit on a smaller side.
Seaesta Surf
This beach-inspired brand creates sustainable, stylish swimwear for kids using a thoughtful mix of eco-friendly materials. Their boardshorts are made from a blend of recycled plastic and organic cotton, while their swimsuits utilize recycled materials including repurposed fishing nets (ECONYL). All their products are manufactured with OEKO-TEX certified low-impact dyes that are gentler on both sensitive skin and the environment, and feature UPF 50+ protection to keep little ones safe during beach adventures.
Beyond Swimwear: Complete Sun Protection
Remember that even the best swimwear should be part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy:
- Sun Hats: Look for wide-brimmed hats made from natural, non-toxic materials. Reima's organic cotton bucket hats as well as recycled sun hats for various ages are great options.
- Timing: Alternating sun and shade time is always a good idea to limit exposure during peak UV hours (typically 10am-4pm).
- Rash Guards: Long-sleeved options provide extra coverage for sensitive skin, reducing the need for frequent sunscreen application.
- Natural Sunscreen: Use mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen on exposed areas. For a complete guide to choosing the best non-toxic sunscreen options for your children, check out our comprehensive article: Non-Toxic & Eco-Friendly Sun Protection: Best Sunscreen for Kids & Babies.
- Hydration: Keep kids well-hydrated with clean, filtered water. Learn more about the importance of clean water in our article on Choosing the Best Water Bottles for Kids.
How to Care for Sustainable Swimwear
To make your eco-friendly swimwear last longer:
- Rinse immediately: Rinse in cold fresh water immediately after swimming in pools or salt water to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen residues.
- Hand wash when possible: While most sustainable swimwear can be machine washed, hand washing in cool water with mild, eco-friendly detergent will extend its life.
- Avoid harsh detergents: Use gentle, eco-friendly detergents free from optical brighteners and harsh chemicals.
- Air dry naturally: Let swimwear air dry away from direct sunlight to prevent fabric deterioration and color fading.
- Store flat: Store flat in a dry place rather than hanging, which can stretch the fabric over time.
FAQ: Common Questions About Sustainable Kids Swimwear
Q: Are sustainable swimwear options more expensive than conventional ones? A: While some sustainable options may have a higher initial price point, they typically last longer and can be passed down between siblings, making them more economical in the long run.
Q: How can I tell if swimwear has chemical UV protection versus fabric weave protection? A: Look for product descriptions that specifically mention "UPF achieved through fabric structure/weave" or "no chemical treatments." If in doubt, contact the manufacturer directly.
Q: Will sustainable swimwear provide the same level of sun protection as conventional options? A: Yes! Quality sustainable swimwear with UPF 50+ ratings provides excellent protection, blocking 98% of harmful UV rays, comparable to or better than conventional options.
Q: Can sustainable swimwear handle chlorine and salt water? A: Many sustainable options, particularly those made with recycled nylon or ECONYL, are specifically designed to be resistant to chlorine and salt water degradation.
Q: How do I know if a brand is truly sustainable and not just "greenwashing"? A: Look for specific certifications (GOTS, OEKO-TEX, GRS), transparent information about materials and manufacturing processes, and clear statements about their environmental commitments.
Making the Switch
Transitioning to sustainable swimwear doesn't have to happen all at once. Consider replacing worn-out pieces with non-toxic alternatives gradually. Purchasing better-quality, longer-lasting items means you'll buy less frequently, which is ultimately better for both your wallet and the planet.
By choosing non-toxic, sustainable swimwear for your children, you're not just protecting their health today—you're helping ensure they'll have clean beaches and oceans to enjoy for many summers to come.
Scientific References
Research continues to emerge about the potential health and environmental impacts of chemicals used in textiles and swimwear:
- A 2023 study published in Environmental International conducted a comprehensive review of benzophenone-3 (BP-3) toxicity, highlighting concerns about its hormone-disrupting properties and ability to be absorbed through the skin. View the study at PubMed.gov.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found PFAS in the blood of 97% of Americans according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, highlighting how widespread exposure to these "forever chemicals" has become. Learn more at the NIEHS PFAS page.
- Research published in Environmental Science & Technology has identified that UV-filtering chemicals like benzophenones can transfer from clothing to skin and be absorbed into the bloodstream, demonstrating that chemicals in fabrics don't necessarily stay in the fabrics. See the study at PubMed.gov.
- A 2021 study from Fashion and Textiles journal found that cotton knitted fabrics can achieve excellent UV protection through the structure and tight weave of the fabric rather than chemical treatments, supporting the case for naturally UPF-rated materials. Read more at SpringerOpen.
- The Environmental Working Group provides extensive resources about PFAS chemicals and their presence in consumer products. Check their PFAS Guide for detailed information and practical tips to reduce exposure.
What sustainable swimwear brands have you tried with your kids? Share your experiences in the comments below!
[1] Mustieles V, et al. (2023). Benzophenone-3: Comprehensive review of the toxicological and human evidence with meta-analysis of human biomonitoring studies. Environmental International, 173:107739.
[2] National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (2024). Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).
[3] Morrison GC, et al. (2017). Dermal Uptake of Benzophenone-3 from Clothing. Environmental Science & Technology, 51(19):11371-11379.
[4] Tran CD, et al. (2021). Ultraviolet resistance on weft knitted fabric coated by benzotriazoles. Fashion and Textiles, 8:24.