FAQs

How do swim nappies work and other common questions.

We get it. Once you answer one question about swim nappies, more seem to float up in its place. Here are answers to the questions we often hear.

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How do swim nappies work?

All swim nappies are a bit different and some are better than others at keeping poop inside the nappy. We’ve been teaching babies and toddlers to swim for 25 years and we’ve seen many types of nappies (and a few too many poopy incidents).
Our swim nappy is designed to keep poop inside the nappy with leg bands that stop it leaking out. We’ve taken extra care to use super soft elastic in the leg bands too, keeping your little one comfortable (while containing code browns). You don’t need to use a nappy underneath.
What about wee? Like all swim nappies – including disposables – ours let water and wee pass through to avoid weighing your babe down in the water. So don’t put swim nappies (of any type) on until you’re at the pool or beach, to avoid wee situations in the car or pram.

How do I know what size to choose?

Our sizing is unisex and based on Australian Standard Sizing. However our nappies are generous so we suggest choosing a size down from what you normally would.
If you’re not happy with your size, please see our 30-day returns policy.
Size Age Weight Range
XS 0-3 months 4-6 kgs
S 3-6 months 6-8 kgs
M 6-12 months 8-10 kgs
L 12-24 months 10-12 kgs
XL 2-3 years 12-15+ kgs

What is your shipping and returns policy?

We offer:

  • Free Standard Shipping in Australia for orders over $100.
  • Free Express Shipping in Australia for orders over $120.

See more about our shipping and returns.

Do I need to use a disposable nappy underneath?

Nope! And as swim teachers, we don’t recommend using nappies underneath because they weigh babes down in the water.
Our nappies are specially designed with leg bands to keep poop inside the nappy.
Like all swim nappies though – including disposables – ours let water and wee pass through. So don’t put swim nappies (of any type) on until you’re at the pool or beach, to avoid any wee situations in the car or pram.

What does swim-school approved mean?

Like all swimwear, it’s about comfort and hygiene.
After teaching babies and toddlers to swim for 25 years, we’ve seen many types of nappies (and a few too many poopy incidents). We know leg bands are the key to keeping poop inside the swim nappy, and we’ve taken extra care to use super soft elastic to avoid digging into delicate skin so you know your babe is comfy in the water.
We love seeing babes discover the wonderful world of water. There’s nothing more special than creating magical memories there together and we exist to empower this – see more of our story.

Why are Waterlings swim nappies so leak proof?

Our swim nappies are designed to keep poop inside the nappy with leg bands that stop it leaking out. We’ve taken extra care to use super soft elastic in the leg bands too, keeping your little one comfortable (while containing code browns!). You don’t need to use a disposable nappy underneath.
After 25 years teaching babies and children how to swim, we know this nappy design keeps everyone happy and avoids any unwelcome incidents so you can relax and enjoy the water with your babe, worry free.
What about wee? Like all swim nappies, including disposables, ours let water and wee pass through to avoid weighing your babe down in the water.

What’s the easiest way to deal with a dirty swim nappy?

We recommend taking the nappy off (on a change table or for older children, in a toilet stall), flushing any poo down the loo, and putting the nappy into a wet bag to take home and wash like normal (cold gentle machine wash, line dry).
We have matching wet bags too, to make life easy.

How do I wash and dry Waterlings swim nappies?

First, check for any poo that can be flushed down the loo, then rinse your nappy with cold water.
Once home, pop it in a cold gentle machine wash when you’re ready and leave it to dry in the shade.
Avoid bleaching, tumble drying, ironing and dry cleaning.

What are Waterlings swim nappies made of?

Our reusable swim nappies are made of:
  • 78% recycled polyester, sourced from plastics that would otherwise end up in waterways
  • 22% elastane

Are they sun and chlorine safe?

Yes, our fabric is chlorine resistant and UPF50+ for maximum sun protection.
Read more about fabric sun protection ratings on the Cancer Council site.

Are they ethically made?

We consistently make the choice to lower our ecological impact, and prioritise natural and ethical materials and processes. Our swim nappies are designed here in Australia, made with 78% recycled fabric sourced from plastic that would otherwise end up in waterways, and responsibly made in China.
We also donate 10% of profits to fund clean water projects globally.

How long do swim nappies last?

Our swim nappies are designed to last as long as you need them to in the water, keeping code browns in!
With chlorine resistant and UPF50+ fabric, they’re also made to last as long as your babe fits them, so long as you follow the simple care instructions on the tag. If so, you should probably be able to hand them down to other water babes, too.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, let us know.

We’re here to make your life in the water flow like the perfect breeze on a summer’s day. In other words, we’re happy to help.