You don’t have to wait until your child is old enough to take up swimming lessons to take them with you to the beach or the pool. All you need is a baby carrier for swimming.
Even babies can experience water activities as long as you are using one of the best water baby carriers.
A waterproof baby carrier is important as it will help to keep your baby safe (because let's face it, wet babies are slippery) whilst both of you can enjoy your time in the cool water.
These waterproof breathable quick-drying carriers for moms and dads have some unique features that distinguish them from traditional baby carriers — making them suitable for water activities and hot weather.
Let us help you find a a pool and beach baby carrier that will allow you and your baby to stay comfortable during the hottest of days and enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool or beach with the rest of the family.
Not in the mood for research and reading and just want to find out which is the best baby carrier for water?
- THE BEST WATERPROOF BABY CARRIER -
Our top pick is the Beachfront Baby Wrap.
- For babies 8-30 lbs
- Breathable 100% polyester jersey mesh
- Light to wear in the water
- Dries really quickly
- Carriers place baby in the optimal position
- Made in the USA
Click here to check out the Beachfront waterproof baby wrap carrier
Best Water Carrier 2024 Comparison Chart
Below is a comparison chart of, in our opinion, the best water baby carriers; which are mentioned in this article.
You can then read our picks of best water carrier reviews below featuring the best baby water carrier, the best baby water wraps and the best baby water rings.
Brand | Price | Sizes | lbs | Material | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Beachfront Baby Wrap | S, M, L | 8 - 30 | Polyester | ||
 2.The Breezy Wrap - Breathable Baby Carrier | 1 Size | 8 - 40 | Cotton Mesh | ||
 3. Konny Ultra Light Baby Wrap Carrier | XXS - XXXXXL | 0 - 44 | Polyester 87% Spandex 13% | ||
 4. Beachfront Baby Lux Hibiscus Sling | 1 Size | 8 - 35 | Polyester | ||
 5. Everyday Buckle Meh Dai Carrier | 1 Size | 8 - 40 | 100% recycled PET water bottles | ||
 6. Breathable Ergonomic Baby Carrier | 1 Size | 0 - 44 | Cotton & Mesh | ||
 7. Kids N' Such 4-in-1 Baby Wrap Carrier | 1 Size | 0 - 35 | Cotton Blend |
Is it Safe to Take Your Baby in the Ocean?
It is generally best to wait until your new baby is at least 2 months old before you take him/her into the ocean.
Remember that little babies can't regulate their own temperature so you don't want them to get too cold.
After 2 months of age, you could take them for a swim in a pool, ocean or river. And this is where a carrier becomes really important - especially in the ocean where the currents or waves could affect your hold on your baby.
Can you Wear a Baby Carrier in the Water?
Yes you can wear a baby carrier in the water however there are a few points for safety that we only recommend that you wear a carrier that is for front or hip carrying.
If you are wearing a back baby carrier you will not be able to see your baby’s face and how they are responding to being in the water or how much water is possibly being splashed into their face.
We also recommend that you use a baby carrier that is lightweight and does not absorb too much water when wet. If the carrier becomes too heavy after getting wet it may not be able to function correctly.
Why Do I Need a Waterproof Baby Carrier?
The number one reason is safety. By using a waterproof baby carrier you are not only ensuring that your baby will still be safe once the carrier is wet but it means that you and your baby can join in the fun whilst at the ocean or pool!
The carrier ensures that your baby is safe and secure in the water and does not stand the chance of slipping out of your arms whilst carrying them when in the water.
If you use a water baby carrier when in water your arms and hands are also free giving you more flexibility when in the water.
How to Find a Good Quality Beach or Pool Baby Carrier
There aren't many waterproof baby carriers on the market unfortunately. It can be so hard to find a carrier that doesn't soak up the water and that dries nice and quick.
Here are some things to look out for in the ideal water baby carrier.
1. Material
Polyester is the most popular material when it comes to water baby carriers. Its quick-drying properties make it an ideal choice.
Mesh fabric is another good choice because of the better breathability.
2. Padding?
While padded carriers may offer additional comfort in traditional baby carriers, it’s not something you want in a water baby carrier.
The extra padding makes the carrier feel snug but it also works against the baby’s comfort as it will likely cause overheating. Furthermore, padding is just one or two more layers of material that has to dry. Best water baby carrier should dry fast, not slow.
3. UV Protection
A water baby carrier is no substitute for sunscreen. That being said, you want something that also protects your baby from UV rays on top of the layer of protection provided by the cream.
Some fabrics get better UV treatments than others, particularly polyester water baby carrier.
4. Waterproofing
Waterproof baby carriers are sometimes ideal to have due to how sensitive babies are. Making sure that your baby carrier doesn’t allow your baby to get soaking wet and stay that way should be one of the most important things to check off your to-do list.
What Types of Water Baby Carriers Exist?
There are 3 main types of water baby carriers that you can purchase: ring slings, wraps and buckle carriers.
They are made from various types of materials but most have some stretch and are quick drying fabric.
Let's look at each of those more closely.
1. Wrap
Baby wraps (baby beach wraps) are very simple contraptions designed for ease of use and proper support. They usually come as individual long pieces of fabric.
Most people use them as front baby carriers, although depending on the fabric it is possible to also use them as back baby carriers.
This type of carrier is also characterized by the way it adjusts to the baby’s body. It provides good coverage, proper back and neck support, and makes the baby feel like he’s getting hugged.
2. Ring Sling
Mesh ring slings are also very popular as travel baby carriers. These generally use less suitcase space than traditional baby wraps. Interestingly enough, they offer the same benefits as baby wraps: proper back and neck support.
The main difference is in how you wear a ring sling. A ring sling is easy to put on but it puts all of the baby’s weight onto a single shoulder. It doesn’t make things very comfortable for the parent. On the other hand, it gives the parent total arm freedom.
Ring slings are also often lighter than other carriers, which makes them even easier to store and take with you on a summer vacation.
3. Buckle Carrier
Buckle carriers or soft structured carriers (SSC) are constructed similarly to a frameless backpack. They feature shoulder straps, and sometimes waist straps too. Buckles are used to provide support and security.
Most of these carriers are highly adjustable and can be used as water baby carriers, as long as they are made of the appropriate materials.
Top Water Friendly Baby Carrier, Wraps and Ring Sling Reviews
In the section below, you will find some helpful reviews. The list covers all the positive aspects and downsides of each baby carrier for pool or beach use. Hopefully, after reading this review, you will easily find which carrier, wrap or ring is the best fit for you.
1. Best Water Baby Wraps
1. Beachfront Baby Wrap Review
This lightweight baby wrap can be the ideal water-friendly baby carrier during your child’s first visit to the beach. It’s a polyester mesh wrap which offers superior ventilation.
It dries very quickly due to the fact that the mesh fabric. Of course, the polyester’s quick drying properties also help.
When used as a front baby carrier, the baby should have enough bottom and back support. Thanks to the wide range of motion the wrap offers, you can support the baby’s head and back with both hands.
For the parent, the Beachfront Baby Wrap is very comfortable. The one-size stretchy fabric should fit those who wear sizes S, M, and L. Another cool feature is the extra wide strap design. This ensures that the baby won’t put too much strain on the shoulders and that its weight will be properly distributed on your back and shoulders.
Designed for babies between 8 and 30lbs, the Beachfront baby wrap is a very popular and reliable baby carrier for the summer time or for pool parties.
One thing to note is that the baby wrap doesn’t have the best waterproofing out there. Because it is a mesh fabric, water will go through it. The protection is minimal. In consolation, the wrap has a good UV treatment applied.
This is our pick for the best baby wrap carrier for summer.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this wrap or click the button below.
This mesh baby sling carrier can be used by moms and dads that want to take their babies to experience the beach or the breeze at a summer pool party. It is also great for hikes.
The mesh fabric dries rather quickly and thanks to the wrapping style, there’s no chance of your baby slipping away. It also remains lightweight when wet.
When not used in the water this baby sling keeps your baby cool due to the breathable mesh fabric.
The one-size sling is a comfortable fit that keeps your baby snug in various positions with minimal stretch so you know your baby is secure when using.
You can use this sling for babies and toddlers up to 35 lbs
The cool thing is that the sling comes with a handy carry bag. It packs up into s super tiny size so you can pack the sling away in the carry bag when not in use.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this sling or click the button below.
3. Konny Baby Wrap Carrier Review
The best waterproof baby sling carrier. The Konny Baby sling has no belts or buckles. The lightweight air-mesh poly-span fabric increases airflow and reduces sweat making it comfortable for all-day use.
The sling does not require any wrapping or tying as you simply slide it over your body like a t-shirt.
The spandex in the fabric gives the sling great stretch so that the sling can be flexible to your baby's body and movement.
The ergonomic design of the sling helps distribute the baby’s weight and supports proper hip development.
The sling has UPF 40 protection so is great for outdoor use when walking, hiking, or swimming.
The fabric dries quickly and is very light. It also provides proper ventilation and helps regulate the body temperature for you and your baby.
The sling comes with its own carry bag making it easy to pack and take with you at a moment’s notice.
The weight capacity of the sling wrap is 45lbs and is available in a range of sizes from 2XS to 5XL.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this sling or click the button below.
2. Best Water Ring Sling
4. Beachfront Baby Lux Hibiscus Sling Review
Made from a lightweight moisture-wicking polyester fabric that includes sun protection for your baby. It has a UPF rating of 20, meaning it protects from about 96% of UVA & UVB rays.
It is also a good waterproof baby carrier for beach or pool parties. The baby wrap carrier can be washed by simply popping it into the washing machine.
This baby wrap comes in a one size for adults who wear a size S, M or L. The XL sling is for those adults who wear size L, 2XL or 3XL shirt sizes.
The wrap can be used for babies from birth up to 35lbs.
The sling comes in 4 different colors with 2 ring options. Each sling has a pocket on the tail with a snap closure making this a very user-friendly baby carrier.
You will also receive an instruction booklet when you purchase your sling to help guide you in wearing your baby safely & comfortably.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this wrap or click the button below.
3. Best Water Buckle Baby Carrier
5. Meh Dai Everyday Buckle Baby Carrier Review
The Everyday Buckle Meh Dai baby carry is a great versatile baby carrier that gives you great value and use for your money.
Meh Dai is a baby carrier that is made from 100% recycled PET water bottles in the USA.
The baby wrap carrier includes a body panel with ties at each of the 4 corners and a buckle around the waist. The buckle means less fabric and more security with a reassuring "click."
For the protection of your baby's head and face, the baby carrier includes an attached hood.
The Meh Dai baby carrier is suitable for babies and toddlers weighing up to 40lbs.
The baby carrier is great. to use in summer as it is light as a feather and wicks moisture away from you and your baby, keeping you both cool & comfy whilst out of the water. The Everyday baby carrier can also be used in the water so is great to take on holidays to the ocean or for a dip in the pool.
Despite the carrier absorbing some water when wet, it stays lightweight and has a quick drying time.
The carrier has a UPF factor of 15, meaning it blocks about 87% of UVA and 95% of UVB rays.
It comes in one size to fit parents who wear a shirt size S, M - XL
Easy to care for as the carrier is machine washable in warm or cold water and can be hung to dry or run through the dryer on low/knits.
Comes in a choice of 6 colors.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this wrap or click the button below.
6. Boba Wrap Baby Carrier Review
If you don’t want to put your trust in traditional baby wraps, then a buckle baby carrier may be your best bet. It still provides comfort to your baby, keeps you close, and provides all the support and security you could ask for.
The thicker shoulder straps help the carrier provide excellent support to your baby. At the same time, they reduce a lot of the physical strain associated with carrying a baby around, especially in the front.
With a weight capacity of up to 35lbs, this carrier can be used for babies and toddlers too.
The sling is made from a breathable mesh fabric which means that you don’t have to worry about overheating.
The shoulder strap is adjustable making the sling adjustable in size as your baby grow and allowing you to carry your baby in different positions through their various stages of growth.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this baby carrier or click the button below.
4. Best Water Convertible Baby Carrier
7. 4-in-1 Baby Wrap Carrier and Ring Sling by Kids N' Such Review
Kids N' Such baby wrap's biggest bonus it's the fact that it is easily convertible and adjustable. You can choose to either use it as a ring sling or a baby wrap.
You can also easily adjust it for either female or male, which is means that the dad will have no problem using is as well.
This is a super comfortable water baby carrier. The cotton blend of the wrap adds to the comfort, softness and breath-ability of the fabric as well. On top of that, it is also easy to clean.
PROS
- Superior support
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on this convertible baby carrier or click the button below.
Our Verdict on the Best Pool and Beachfront Baby Wrap
The Beachfront Baby Wrap is one of the best-designed water baby carriers. It is comfy for the baby. It is made in the USA from safety-tested fabric. The 100% polyester jersey mesh is breathable, light and quick to dry.
There are no buckles, snaps or neoprene- just a long piece of comfortable cloth with tapered ends.
I think you will really enjoy this water sling for baby.
For those of you who are planning on using the baby carrier at the beach, you might also enjoy reading our post of our favorite baby beach essentials. Find the best baby beach tent to keep your little one cool whilst playing or napping. And lastly don't forget to browse through our list of some game-changer beach hacks for babies.
Further Reading:
- We also have a post on the best beach blanket to help keep your little one sand free.
- Find all of our favorite travel gear here.
- Wondering where to go for your first vacation? Here is our list of the best places to visit with an infant.