Best Baby Pool Floats Reviews 2020
Baby pool floats have come a long way over the years. Now you will find that there are many different styles and configurations. You will find ones that have activity centers, like SwimWays, but you can also find baby floats that allow for baby’s feet and legs to be in the water as well. It’s essential to pick a baby float you believe is right for your baby’s particular needs. In this review, we’re going to introduce you to five of the best baby floats out on the market for 2020. We will explain each of the features you usually find in a baby float and other information that will help with your decision.
Best Seller – SwimWays Infant Baby Spring Float with Adjustable Sun Canopy
- Designed with a wide base, child safety valves, and dual air chambers for enhanced security
- Fabric covered inflation provides durability and a patented inner spring adds stability to the float in the water
- Features a patented inner spring around the outside edge of the float for greater stability in the water
Last update on 2021-12-23 at 03:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The SimWays Infant Baby Spring Float comes with an adjustable sun canopy to protect your little one from the sun; it has a 50-plus sun protection coating on the material. The baby spring float is designed with a wide base and patented inner spring technology to provide a more stable and secure base, so it is less likely to tip over.
The float provides a three-point adjustable harness to keep baby securely and safely in the soft fabric seat. Another great feature that this float has is dual inflation chambers in the seat and outer rim for providing extra safety flotation. The child safety valves hold air in the chambers and are engineered to be flush on the float, so your baby will not be scratch or bruised by the valve.
Features:
- Removable and adjustable canopy offers UPF 50-plus sun protection
- Wide base with patented inner springs technology
- Three-point adjustable harness to keep baby secure
- Fabric covered float with soft fabric seat
- The float comes with two built-in handles
- Dual inflation chambers and safety valves
- Recommended for babies age 9-24 months
Verdict: The SwimWays Infant Baby Spring float is designed and recommended for babies who are 9-24 months. Unlike some floats which have two holes for baby’s legs to go through, this one features a soft, comfortable seat that cradles your baby on top of the float and above the water. Your little one can get slightly wet in this floatie, but your baby is not actually in the water. It is ideal for babies who can’t sit up yet and is rated the best seller on the baby float market.
Pros:
- Folds flat into a three compact ring for quick storage and easy portability
- Protects baby from UPF 50-plus sun protection
- Has built-in handles, so parents can hold the float securely
Cons:
- Baby’s bottom may get a little wet
Top Pick – SwimWays Baby Spring Float Activity Center with Canopy
- Baby pool float with a removable canopy designed for safety and fun out on the water
- Features a capacity of 1 baby
- Fabric covered inflation provides durability and a patented inner spring adds stability to the float in the water
Last update on 2021-12-23 at 03:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Baby pool floats enhance the baby’s safety. The SwimWays Baby Spring float comes with patented inner springs that are sewn into the float. This sturdy pool float has dual chambers that inflate around the innerspring and seat for better stability. It also secures and orients your little one naturally to get them acquainted and comfortable being in the water.
The child safety valves hold the air securely in the dual chambers. The removable canopy provides a baby with UPF 50-plus sun protection; the sides of the canopy are made out of mesh material for easy visibility of your precious baby. This design is ranked among the top pick baby floats in 2020.
Features:
- The octopus turns 360 degrees around to face your child and is also removable
- Removable canopy with mesh sides and offers UPF 50-plus sun protection
- Child safety valves and dual air chambers
- Patented inner spring for greater stability
- Folds easily for storage and transport includes convenient carry case
- Recommended for babies age 9-24 months
Verdict: The SwimWays is recommended for 9-24 months. This heavy-duty design is excellent for use in pools and other bodies of water. The float is also easy and quick to inflate and has a well-engineered activity center that babies like; toys included one fish, stacking rings, one squeaker fish, and one soft star. The rotating octopus can turn 360 degrees to face your baby for full activity fun or be removed. As you spend time in the pool, your baby will get pleasure from using this product.
Pros:
- Comes with several toys for baby to play with
- Designed to help babies and parents relax, while in the water
- It’s a great pool float for travel
- Easy to inflate and deflate
Cons:
- Easy for baby to bite through
Best Value – SwimWays Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy – Green Fish
- Portable pool float designed to keep infants shaded while in the pool or lake
- Dual inflation chambers, Inner Spring Technology, and low seat enhance stability
- Folds easily for storage and transport
Last update on 2021-12-23 at 03:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The SwimWays Baby Spring float is designed with two child safety valves and dual air chambers for extra security. To inflate, pinch the base of the valve to open a small passageway, inflate by breathing air into the valve, and when inflated stop pinching, and replace the valve cap. As the number one best valuable baby float in the market, it’s a wonderful way to introduce the pool to your baby and start a lifelong enjoyment of swimming. The patented twistable design makes it easy to fold and unfold quickly.
On sunny warm days, you can easily adjust the canopy to block the sun rays with a 50-plus UPF sun protection for your baby’s delicate skin; plus, it is simple to adjust, or you can remove it altogether. The SwimWay design is made out of synthetic material for strong durability. The durable fabric-covered floatation comes with a soft mesh seat and secure leg holes that feature a low center of gravity to help maintain your baby’s balance and self-confidence. The patented inner springs on the outer edge provide stability.
Features:
- Soft mesh seat with secure leg holes
- Made out of synthetic material
- Two child safety valves and dual air chambers
- Patented inner spring for stability
- Removable canopy with mesh sides
- Offers 50-plus UPF sun protection
- Recommended for babies age 9-24 months
Verdict: The SwimWays float introduces young babies or toddlers to the water, helping them become more at ease. The design is recommended for babies age 9-24 months. It comes with an interactive green fish design.
Pros:
- Easily folds for portability and storage
- Protects baby from UV sun rays
- Helps to relax babies and parents
- Comes with child safety valves
Cons:
- Harder to inflate than other brands
Runner Up – VQ-Ant Upgrade Third Generation Baby Solid Swimming Float
- ❤【Detachable tail】Mambobaby newest: 1. Add tail to avoid flip over. 2. Bigger adjustable size, better for big baby of 3-24 months. 3....
- ❤【Detachable sun canopy】 UPF 50+, keep baby’s delicate skin away from fierce sun. Use both outdoor and indoor. Mesh sides for...
- ❤【Non-inflate】No need pump. NEVER leakage and sink. One-press security buckles-lock offers more protection and convenient operation....
Last update on 2021-12-23 at 03:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The VQ-Ant upgrade is the third generation with a removable sun canopy that can be used indoors or outdoors to protect baby’s delicate skin from the hot sun; it offers UPF 50-plus protection. The VQ-Ant is a non-inflatable float with no leakage risk. The soft elastic design has a no zipper puller to protect the baby from potentially eating it.
The flat buckle and strap open for a baby to be placed in the float. To secure the baby, you will first close the waistband, lock the buckle in place, and then adjust for a snug fit. Don’t forget to adjust the crotch strap to fit the size of the baby. The baby solid swimming float is rated as the runner up in the baby float market. It comes with head support that holds the baby’s head at a 40-degree angle.
Features:
- Upgraded safety flat buckle and strap
- Comes with a waistband
- Adjustable waist and a crotch strap
- Removable canopy offers UPF 50-plus
- Mesh sides for see-through visibility
- Outside cloth and content is pearl-foam
- Includes three-piece spray water toys
- Recommended for babies age 3-12 months backstroke position
- Recommend for babies age 3-24 months breaststroke position
Verdict: The VQ-Ant baby float provides two different floatation positions for baby safety: backstroke and breaststroke. The design recommends for babies age 3-12 months can safely be positioned in the backstroke and breaststroke position. However, it recommends that babies from age 13-24 months only be in the breaststroke position. These safety swim position should not be taken lightly as the recommendation is for your baby’s safety and well-being.
Pros:
- Two ways to lay baby on the float: backstroke and breaststroke
- Protects babies delicate skin from the sun
- No pump necessary as it doesn’t need inflated
Cons:
- May take more than one person to strap in a baby or toddler securely
Also Consider – Baby Pool Float, Swimming Float with Canopy, Inflatable Floatie Swim Ring
- [Top Quality] High-quality PVC allows excellent water-resistant and air-tight performances. We adopt none-toxic material, harm-free to kids...
- [Stable & Comfortable] Large circumference and hand grips attached to the two sides of the float ensure perfect stability. Thick edges form...
- [Eye-catching Design] With baby shark appearance,, this swimming float is eye-catching to babies. In-built bell keep the baby engaged....
Last update on 2021-12-23 at 03:06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The baby pool float is made out of high-quality PVC material for excellent waterproof and airtight performance. This no-toxic material is harm-free to babies and toddlers. It offers strong leg holes and a thick backrest for support for the baby’s back. The leak-proof design has a widened seat for a more stable and durable, safe floating depth.
The comfortable and safe sitting area allows baby’s legs to dangle in the water for kicking and playing. This perfect seaming smooth and strong design has easy air inflation and fast deflation. The large circumference and grip handle located on both sides of the float ensure stability and a secure place for the baby to hang on to while getting acquainted with the water. Many also consider this design from the pool float market for its many features and uniqueness. The thick edge form is 0.25 millimeters thick.
Features:
- Built-in bells make sounds to entertain baby
- Made out of high-quality PVC
- Large circumference and hand grips on the side of the float
- Safety valves to prevent leakage
- Thick edge form and comfortable back
- Shaped like a cute little baby shark
- Detachable sunshade canopy
- Recommended for babies age 9-36 months
Verdict: The baby float design is suitable for kids age 9-36 months and has a weight capacity of 40 pounds. This eye-catching baby float design is shaped like a baby shark with sharp-looking teeth and a lovely shark tail. It also has a built-in bell that attracts the attention of your baby. The detachable sunshade creates more usage scenarios while shading the sun from your little one.
Pros:
- Safety valves protect against leakage
- Provide excellent waterproof and airtight performance
- Protects baby from direct sunlight
Cons:
- Air pump not included must buy separately
Best Baby Pool Floats Buying Guide 2020
Air Chambers
Most baby floats come with at least one air chamber to hold air effectively in the float. However, it is beneficial to have more than one air chamber in a baby float. If the baby pool float should develop a small pinhole in one chamber, then you will have plenty of time to get your baby out of the float and to safety. You should consider at least two chambers or more when buying a baby pool float.
Safety Valves
Many baby pool floats have child safety valves that only permit one-way inflation; this technique holds air into the chambers. These valves also make it possible for quick inflation and deflation. Most baby float safety valves are pushed into the tube for a flush look and feel.
Buckles and Straps
Like other baby seats, baby pool floats have buckles and straps to prevent your baby from falling out of the float. To secure baby safely, pull the piece a fabric that is sewn to the seat between your baby’s legs like a diaper. Connect the buckles and adjust it for a secure fit.
Material
When choosing a baby pool float, you will want to look at the quality of the material. If you don’t look at the material, you could be left with a low-grade material that rips within a few uses. Instead, choose a more solid and durable pool float for your baby that will last and protect them in the water. It also should be easy to clean and be free of any chemicals, PVC and Vinyl work best.
Portability
If you’re thinking about taking your baby to a public pool, then you will want a baby pool float that is portable and easy to carry. Having a baby pool float that folds up easily will make trips to the pool more convenient. Some brands provide a carry case for the baby float.
What to Look for in a Baby Pool Float
Baby pool floats come in many different shapes and sizes. Some are equipped with toys, while others are not. However, how the baby float looks isn’t the most important feature to look for in a baby float. In fact, it’s not one of the top things a parent should consider when it comes to these styles of floats. The top considerations are listed below. We recommend looking for a baby float that has all of these criteria features.
Safety
You will want features built-in to the baby pool float that you choose. Some features that a parent should consider are safety valves and dual inflation chambers to safeguard against air leakage. Other features that should be considered are low center gravity and inner springs for better stability of the float. However, all the features in any float will not substitute parental supervision.
Size
Size is another essential factor to consider. Choosing a baby pool float that’s made for a baby will make certain that the float is not only comfortable but also safer for your baby to use. Don’t even consider placing your baby in a float that is too large for them as drowning may become a factor. Some floats are made for a variety of age groups, but usually, these baby floats lack the proper safety features necessary to keep a baby safe. Always be smart and buy the correct size for your baby.
Sun Protection
Babies have delicate and fair skin and should be protected from the sun. Many pediatricians recommend babies to have sun protection when out in the UV rays. It is best to look for a baby pool float that provides a canopy to block the sun. Keep in mind, though, some pool float designs don’t offer UPF protection on the canopy, so unless it clarifies that it has a UPF 50-plus sun protection, you should always assume it doesn’t.
Comfort
Choose a pool float that your baby will get pleasure from using. Seams, for instance, should be strong, flat, and not be irritating against the skin. Low-grade baby pool floats frequently scratch or may cause chafing to baby’s skin. You also should consider checking the quality of the seat. Does it naturally orient the baby to the water with plenty of comforts? Never sacrifice your baby’s well-being and contentment.
Design
When in a rush, most parents buy the most popular float that is available in a local store. This is okay. However, if it doesn’t securely support your baby above the water, it is not worth purchasing. Choose a baby pool float that is sturdy and well-balanced in the water. Also, be sure that it can withstand your baby’s weight. These styles secure a baby well without the risk of them toppling over.
Add-Ons
Look for baby pool float designs that offer add-ons such as an activity center or canopy. The activity center will entertain while your baby is introduced to floating in the water. The canopy will protect your baby from the UV and UPF sun rays. Having both add-ons will provide your baby with an enjoyable water experience.
Baby Pool Float Safety Tips
- Don’t go any further than an arm’s reach away from your child.
- Keep your eyes and attention always on your baby. Never turn your back towards your baby while in the water, not even when their sitting in a floatie.
- If you plan to take your baby often to the pool, learn CPR. Sadly, accidents happen quickly and when we least expect it.
- A baby pool float only floats and is not a life preserver or PFD. If you are considering taking your baby out on a boat, then you need a USCG approved baby life jacket for them.
Frequent Asked Questions
Do babies need a pool float?
It’s not mandatory that you run out and get a pool float for your baby. However, If you choose to put your baby in a pool float, you will help them get a sense of how being in the water feels. It also will free up the parent’s hands and arms for water play. Baby floats provide a baby with a sense of security while getting acquainted with the water.
How old should a baby be before using a baby pool float?
Many baby float brands offer a recommended age for use. The recommendation should be strictly followed because the float may not work as intended. The VQ-Ant baby float recommends that a baby should at least be a 3-month-old; while others recommend using their brand until your baby is a 9-month-old. So clearly, there is a wide age range. Always read the recommendations before buying any baby float.
Are baby pool floats safe to use?
A baby pool float is not USCG approved or is in any way a PFD that is intended to save your baby’s life. Baby floats are inflatable toys that help your baby get acquainted with the water and eventually learn to swim. It is wise to stay close to your baby in the water, so you, as a parent, can supervise your baby’s safety.
Do baby floats provide any sun protection?
Yes, many baby floats come with a canopy that can be adjusted to block the direct sunlight off of your baby. Most canopies provide 50-plus sun protection to your baby. Some brand designs make it possible to either have the canopy on or off the baby float giving you two options.
Do any of the baby brand floats come with toys?
Some brands come with toys, and most are detachable for active playing. One of the most popular baby float brands that offer an activity play center is SwimWays. If you choose a brand that doesn’t provide toys, any floatable bath toy will work just as well.
How do you store baby pool floats?
First, remove the cap. If it is a safety valve, you will need to pinch the base of the valve to release the air. Repeat until all air chambers are empty. Fold the float and place it in a carrying bag. The float can be stored in a pool shed or other storage area.
What is the best way to clean a baby pool float?
The best way to clean a baby pool float is by using bleach and water. Bleach is strong enough to clean germs, mold, and mildew from your baby’s pool float. To have the right strength of bleach, mix one tablespoon to a gallon of water, then use a sponge to wipe down the baby float. Let the bleach stay on the float for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water. Don’t place it in the pool until the baby float is completely dry.
Will my baby be safe in a float if I take a quick swim?
Never leave your baby alone while you swim. A baby float is not a PFD and the fact that your baby can’t swim; you should in no way be more than an arm’s length away from them. Accidents happen quickly, so be sure to stay near your child and supervise their time in the water.
Is there any baby floats available on the market for twins?
Yes, there are several baby pool floats on the market for twins. Many even have a place for mommy to snuggle up or float along. It will take more than one person to get twins in and out of the pool, so both babies have supervision at all times. These floats also make it possible for one twin to float, while the other takes a nap.
Do baby floats have buckles or straps?
Yes, most baby floats offer both buckles and shoulder straps to secure your baby into the float. In fact, some even provide a crotch strap for extra security measures. If having your child fastened in the baby float is a concern you have, then be sure to look for a baby pool float that provides buckles, shoulder straps, and a crotch strap.
Conclusion
That concludes our review and buying guide on the best baby pool floats for 2019. Introducing your baby to the water for the first time can be a bonding experience for both baby and parent. Baby floats help little ones become more comfortable with the water gradually. If you are looking to introduce your baby to the water on your next trip, then you may possibly want to consider one of the fabulous products in this review.
Perhaps you would like a baby float that offers toys and a canopy like our top pick in this review, the SwimWays Baby Spring Float Activity Center with Canopy. Another great choice is the runner up in this review, the VQ-Ant Upgrade Third Generation Baby Solid Swimming Float; it also offers a baby two different positions to lie on this float: the backstroke and breaststroke. Either option is safe for your baby to have fun while becoming familiar with the water.