From chlorine-removal shampoo to hooded towels: 6 baby swimming bag essentials
Must-have essentials every parent needs in their baby’s swim bag.
Swimming is synonymous with Australian culture. Days spent furiously building sandcastles at the beach, road trips along the coast, and games of Marco Polo in the pool are some of my most cherished family memories, so creating them all over again with my daughter feels like a sweet chapter.
As she starts to assert her independence and her curiosity around water grows, swimming lessons have naturally earned a spot on the fridge calendar. And while the idea of popping them in the pool and teaching her how to swim to safety is equal parts exciting and slightly daunting, lessons are essential—not just for her safety but for our peace of mind too.
Once we’d chosen a swimming teacher and picked the days to suit our schedule (no easy feat), one question remained: What do you pack for swimming lessons?
From UV-protective swimwear to chlorine-removal shampoo, we’ve rounded up six important—and adorable—essentials to add to your swimming bag.
Six essentials you need in your baby’s swimming bag
Little Étoile Swim Protect 2-in-1 Shampoo & Body Wash
$26.99 at Garden of Wellness
Saltwater, chlorine and other swimming pool chemicals can be harsh on baby hair—those freshly grown, undisturbed strands are so magically pure, they’re worth protecting. Thankfully, there are products that can help. Our go-to is Little Étoile: a 2-in-1 nourishing shampoo and body wash that protects both the scalp and hair, helps prevent discolouration, reduces odours, and rehydrates. It’s gentle on the eyes and skin—and its peach and passionfruit scent will leave you sniffing your bub’s head even more than usual.
Cotton On Kids Baby Zip Through Hooded Towel
$39.99 at Cotton On
You want to keep your bub from shivering after lessons—and they’re obviously too young to wrap a towel around themselves properly—so a zip-through hooded towel is a cosy addition to your swim bag. This fun, red-striped cotton cutie is equal parts soft, moisture-wicking, and sweet.
Cancer Council SPF 50+ Kids Sunscreen Tube 110mL
$9.29 $15.49 at Priceline
When it comes to sunscreen, there are tons of tubes out there to choose from—and the one you pack has practically become a statement in itself. While newer brands may tempt parents with aesthetic packaging and witty names, recent tests have revealed that some of the UV protection claims don’t stack up. Our trusted pick? Cancer Council SPF 50+ Kids Sunscreen. Dermatologically tested, nationally trusted, and gentle on your little one’s skin.
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Philé Travel Changemat
$50 at The Iconic
Sadly, not every place offers a parent-friendly changing space—but with a travel mat, any spot becomes a change table. These plush, double-padded mats are designed for on-the-go nappy changes. Machine washable and easy to clean, they fold neatly into your swim bag, and come in five stylish colours.
The Somewhere Co Silicone Baby Bento Box
$37 at The Somewhere Co
Sure, a swim bag is essential—but snacks? They’re crucial. Your little one will likely emerge from the pool proud, tired, and absolutely ravenous. Rather than relying on sugary poolside snacks (and risking the inevitable crash), prep ahead with a waterproof, BPA-free silicone baby bento box—like these chic pastel versions from The Somewhere Co. Microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe, they’re perfect for post-swim snacks—and just as handy for your own lunch, too.
Purebaby Pomegranate Gingham Long Sleeve Rashie Set
$49.95 at Purebaby
I used to think choosing a bikini for myself was tricky, but nothing compares to picking a swimsuit for my one-year-old daughter. With so many charming options out there, it’s hard to choose just one. Whether you’re swimming indoors or out, maximum sun protection and comfort are key. And while a full-body zoot suit might seem cute at first, it’s not always the most practical for little ones wading through water.
Of course, colour and cut are entirely subjective, but a lightweight, breathable, chlorine-resistant, and UPF 50+ matching set—like this one from Purebaby—is a stylish staple. The sweet ruffle detailing and matching hat? It’s almost too cute to handle.
Words by Elise Cullen
