Image: Cosmo Crew Kids
Erica Watson, co-founder of Green + Simple, shares her favourite eco swimwear for children.
With the depths of winter finally behind us, there’s no better time to start planning that summer getaway. If the beach is calling your name chances are you’ll be giving some thought to your children’s swimwear – especially if they’ve shot up over the colder months and last year’s styles just aren’t going to cut it. Fortunately, there’s an increasing number of brands taking kids swimwear seriously, producing garments that are made well, look good and are ethically and sustainably made. Leaps in technology also mean recycled ocean plastics are being spun into the coolest little boardies and one-pieces, so not only can your little ones splash in style, it’s also addressing ocean waste.
Here’s our pick of brands creating great ethical and sustainable kids swimmers.
ADIDAS
Looking for something for your tween or teen? Adidas makes a great range of boardies and swimmers for both little and big kids, and are especially great for those who like doing laps of the pool or even swimming lessons. Made from chlorine resistant recycled polyester, we love the graphic prints and bright colours.
Swim shorts available from adidas.co.uk
Swimsuit available from adidas.co.uk
COSMO CREW KIDS
Ethically produced in Bali and made from recycled nylon made from ghost fishing nets and plastic bottles, these rash vests and swimmers for boys and girls not only stand up to the style test, they’re super long-lasting. They provide UPF 50+ protection and can even be worn as thermals during winter. Their beach shorts are also made from 100% organic cotton and they use compostable and biodegradable bags for postage.
INA SWIM
Created by two midwives and mums who believe in teaching their kids about nurturing the planet, Ina Swim, for 0-5 year old boys and girls offers one pieces and twin sets, mini boardies and rash vests in pastel and earthy tones. They use fabric made from pre and post-consumer waste like fishing nets, fabric scraps and carpet flooring that’s SPF 50. Their packaging is 100% recyclable too. We only wish they’d make some in grown-up sizes too!
LITTLE BATOKO
Based in the north-west of England, Batoko have the coolest suits in the coolest prints for little girls. They’re digitally printed using non-toxic ink and come in recyclable and compostable packaging. What’s more, you can get grown-up suits to match your mini. Sizes range from one to six.
FRUUGI
Ethically-made kids wear brand Fruugi not only has a great range of wardrobe staples it also does wonderful swim gear. The two-piece sets make shopping easy, they have a UV 50+ rating and are made from Oeko-Tex certified fabric. Sizes range from two years to 10 and they also do a great range of accessories including towels and hats, so you’ll be ready for the beach in a snap!
Looking for adult swimwear? See our favourite women’s sustainable swimwear brands and our ethical swimwear brands for men.
For more kidswear inspiration, see Green + Simple’s best Sustainable Brands for Kids.
Browse our full catalogue of recommended brands.