Kids' Swimwear Guide: UPF 50, Rash Suits and What to Pack for the Pool in Singapore

In Singapore, the sun is strong all year and the pool is part of everyday family life. Choosing the right swimwear helps keep children protected and comfortable, and makes pool days easier for parents. This guide explains what UPF 50 means, how rash suits differ from swimsuits and trunks, and what to pack.

What does UPF 50 mean on kids' swimwear?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It measures how much ultraviolet (UV) radiation a fabric lets through. A UPF 50 fabric blocks about 98% of UV radiation.

All Le Petit Society swimwear is UPF 50. Remember that UPF only applies to the skin the fabric covers, so exposed skin on the face, hands and legs still needs sunscreen, reapplied regularly and after time in the water. Seeking shade during the middle of the day also helps.

What is the difference between a rash suit, a swimsuit and swim trunks?

• Rash suit: a one-piece that typically has long sleeves and covers the arms and torso. It gives the most coverage, which is why many parents choose it for long pool or beach sessions.
• Rash top: a long-sleeve top worn with trunks, jammers or shorts. Separates make toilet trips easier for children who are toilet trained.
• Swimsuit: a classic one-piece, including ruffle styles. It covers less of the arms and shoulders, so sunscreen on exposed skin matters more.
• Swim trunks, jammers and shorts: worn alone or with a rash top.

Compare styles in swimsuits and rash suits and swim trunks and shorts, or see the full swim collection.

What swimwear is best for babies?

For babies, our long-sleeve baby swimsuits with a zip come in sizes 3-6M to 18-24M. The zip makes them easier to put on and take off a wriggly baby, and the long sleeves give more coverage. Pair them with a baby sun hat to shade the face, ears and neck.

How should kids' swimwear fit?

Swimwear should feel snug but not tight when dry. It relaxes a little in water, and a loose suit can drag or ride up. Check that your child can lift their arms and squat comfortably, and that the neckline and leg openings do not dig in.

If your child is between sizes, consider how long you want the suit to last and how they will use it. A slightly roomier size can work for occasional splashing, while a closer fit suits children who swim regularly or take lessons.

What is LPS swimwear made from?

LPS swimwear is made largely from recycled fabric: 82% recycled polyester or nylon with 18% spandex, or 100% recycled polyester for shorts. It is lined and quick-dry, so children are not sitting in a soggy suit for long after getting out.

Do kids need a sun hat and sunglasses at the pool?

Hats and sunglasses help protect the areas swimwear does not cover. Our baby sun hats and kids' bucket hats are UPF 50, made from recycled fabric, and designed to shade the face, ears and neck. See our sun hats.

We also stock Ki ET LA kids' sunglasses in sizes from 0 to 1 years up to 7 to 12 years. Please note these ship within Singapore only. Find them, along with INTEX floats and goggles, in sunglasses and pool accessories.

What should I pack for a pool day in Singapore?

• Swimwear, plus a spare in case of a second swim
• A sun hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen for exposed skin
• Goggles, and floats for younger children
• A towel and a change of clothes
• A water bottle and snacks, as children get thirsty in the heat
• A wet bag for damp swimwear on the way home

How do I wash kids' swimwear so it lasts?

Rinse swimwear in fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine or salt. Then follow the care instructions: cool machine wash, wash inside out, and line dry. Do not bleach, iron or dry clean. Dry it in the shade where possible, and avoid wringing it hard, which can stretch the fabric.

Can the family wear matching swimwear?

Yes, in some prints. Matching adult swim shorts are available in selected prints, including Crab, Shark, Lime and Midnight Ocean, so parents and children can coordinate for holidays and photos.

Le Petit Society is a Singapore family lifestyle brand founded by Robyn Liang and Dylan Ong and launched in 2013. It was voted Best Kids Clothing Brand (Gold) in the Sassy Mama Reader Awards 2025, and Best Children's Clothing Brand (Gold) in the HoneyKids Love Local Awards every year since 2021. Visit our stores at Paragon, Jewel Changi Airport, Resorts World Sentosa (WEAVE) and Downtown Gallery, or shop online with worldwide shipping.

FAQs

Is all LPS swimwear UPF 50?

Yes. All Le Petit Society swimwear is UPF 50 and quick-dry.

Does UPF 50 swimwear mean my child doesn't need sunscreen?

No. UPF 50 fabric protects the skin it covers. Exposed skin still needs sunscreen, reapplied after swimming.

What sizes do LPS baby swimsuits come in?

Long-sleeve baby swimsuits with a zip come in sizes 3-6M to 18-24M.

How should I wash kids' swimwear?

Rinse after swimming, then cool machine wash inside out and line dry. Do not bleach, iron or dry clean.