What to pack in your family pool bag

Keep it uniform
Babies require special clothing to avoid harmful rays and keep from contaminating water. Using a swim diaper adds an additional barrier of protection while also doubling as a cute suit bottom. (Have a few on hand in case a mess ensues.) And to limit sun exposure, a brimmed sunhat safeguards your little one’s sensitive scalp while also keeping him cool. This festive set boasts UPF 50+ sun protection and comes in a range of adorable prints and colors.

Hide the evidence
Speaking of dirty diapers, a wet bag can be treated as a portable trash can for stashing soiled duds while out and about. Made with waterproof and eco-friendly materials, this zip-locked pick is also machine washable. You will wonder why you waited so long to use one.

Under cover
Of course, it’s only fun in the sun if no one gets burned. Take extra care of your wee-one’s skin by applying a baby-safe zinc oxide sunscreen 30 minutes before exposure. Reapply every two hours, or every hour if wet from sweating or swimming. (There’s no such thing as waterproof sunscreen!)

Have a seat
Towels and folding chairs do the trick, but a wipeable mat makes for optimal seating without the mess. We love this Splat Mat because it can easily be folded up and thrown into your tote for snack time during adult swim or a popsicle break in-between cannon balls. And if you move your crew to the beach, you can shake the sand right off before packing up, so the shoreline doesn’t come home with you—score!

This post was made in partnership with Bumkins, a line of fun, family-oriented products we know and love.