Table of Contents

7 Best Baby Rash Guards for Comfy Protection (2025 Review)

Baby dressed up as an anima
seen in: national geographic, cnn, travel + leisure, new york times
the guardian, lonely planet, usa today, forbes
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Spending time outside is one of the best ways to spend quality time with your little one. Fresh air is one of the easiest ways to soothe a fussy baby, as well as introduce them to new environments. However, it’s extremely important to make sure you keep your babies safe when exposed to the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. The littlest of babies are not yet able to use sunscreen, and older babies may have a hard time keeping still to allow sunscreen to be applied.

Luckily, a baby rash guard is the perfect solution to offer sun protection for infants and beyond. With various cuts and styles, rash guards are a type of clothing that offer UPF protection. Ideal for the pool or simple whenever you’re playing outdoors, this selection of rash guards is sure to have the style that is designed for you and your child’s lifestyle.

The Best Baby Rash Guards

  • 1. Cuddle Club Baby and Toddler One Piece Swimsuit

    (Best rash guard and hat combo — $)

    Why it’s great: The long sleeves and oversized sun hat block 98% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. The chlorine and salt water resistant fabric of the Cuddle Club Baby and Toddler One Piece Swimsuit is made to last along with its durable zipper closure. The sweet animal details make this rash guard and hat combo photo-worthy!

    Keep in mind: The rashguard does not have an additional lining so works best if a swim diaper is worn underneath it.

    Good for: Parents looking for body and face sun coverage for their babies.

    Cuddle Club Baby and Toddler One Piece Swimsuit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Simple Joys by Carter’s Rash Guard Set

    (Best two pack — $$)

    Why it’s great: The quick-drying fabric of the Simple Joys by Carter’s Rash Guard Set makes this perfect for the pool or beach. The UPF 50 and long sleeves ensure your infant is protected from the elements. The tagless design and full length zipper make it easy to take this rash guard on and off, even when soaking wet.

    Keep in mind: The slick fabric can be a bit slippery when wet.

    Good for: Parents of twins or parents who want to always have a clean rash guard available.

    Simple Joys by Carter’s Rash Guard Set

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. RUGGEDBUTTS Baby Long Sleeve Rash Guard

    (Best for outdoor play — $$)

    Why it’s great: Made from high-quality fabrics designed in the U.S.A, RUGGEDBUTTS Baby Long Sleeve Rash Guard is a durable material made to withstand sun, sand, and water. Fade-resistant even after extended use, this rash guard is easy to care for to keep it looking new. The t-shirt style pairs well with a swimsuit, but can also be worn for any warm-weather activity outside.

    Keep in mind: This rash guard does not have a zipper, so it must go over your little one’s head to put on.

    Good for: Babies spending time outside both at the pool or playground.

    RUGGEDBUTTS Baby Long Sleeve Rash Guard

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 4. uideazone Baby Zipper Rash Guard, UPF 50

    (Best budget option — $)

    Why it’s great: With numerous fun and colorful designs, your baby will be eager to sport the uideazone Baby Zipper Rash Guard. The quarter zipper with a chin guard makes it easy to take this rash guard on and off for diaper changes. The soft and breathable fabric is gentle on your infant’s delicate skin.

    Keep in mind: It is recommended to only hand wash this rash guard to maintain quality.

    Good for: Parents not looking to break the bank.

    uideazone Baby Zipper Rash Guard, UPF 50

    View on Amazon.com ➜

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  • 5. YOBAAF Baby Swimsuit and Rash Guard

    (Best cutest designs — $$$)

    Why it’s great: Blocking 99% of UVA and UVB rays, the YOBAAF Baby Swimsuit and Rash Guard is resistant against chlorine and salt water. The unique watercolor-esque designs make a stylish statement. The non toxic material zipper is specially made for baby’s sensitive skin and the long zipper makes it a breeze to put it on and take it off.

    Keep in mind: The rash guard runs on the smaller size, so opt to size up if your baby is in between sizes.

    Good for: Parents wanting their babies to make a fashion statement.

    YOBAAF Baby Swimsuit and Rash Guard

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. weVSwe Baby Sun Protection Rash Guard

    (Best full body — $$)

    Why it’s great: With full arm and leg coverage, the weVSwe Baby Sun Protection Rash Guard makes keeping your baby safe from the sun simple. The double zipper allows for it to be taken on and off easily, as well as allowing easy access for diaper changes. The four way stretch makes this rash guard comfortable for long term wear.

    Keep in mind: Some users had difficulty with the zippers occasionally getting stuck.

    Good for: Parents wanting full body coverage from the sun from their infant.

    weVSwe Baby Sun Protection Rash Guard

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. RuffleButts Baby Short Sleeve Rash Guard Set

    (Best two piece set — $$)

    Why it’s great: With a seperate top and bottom, the RuffleButts Baby Short Sleeve 2 Piece Rash Guard Set offers a flexible fit as your little one grows. The full coverage top protects your baby’s skin far more than a traditional swimsuit. The UPF 50 coverage and stretchy fabric is both comfortable and functional.

    Keep in mind: The ruffle detailing adds a lot of additional fabric, which can be uncomfortable for some babies when sitting.

    Good for: Parents looking for a two piece rash guard for each dressing and diaper changes.

    RuffleButts Baby Short Sleeve Rash Guard Set

    View on Amazon.com ➜

Best Overall

Cuddle Club Baby and Toddler One Piece Swimsuit

The Cuddle Club Baby and Toddler One Piece Swimsuit is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..

Cuddle Club Baby and Toddler One Piece Swimsuit

View on Amazon.com ➜

FAQs about Baby Rash Guards

  • 1. What should I look for in a baby rash guard?

    When looking to purchase a baby rash guard, be sure it offers UPF protection, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. The rash guard only protects the skin it covers, so keep this in mind when purchasing a full body rash guard or just a t-shirt. A rash guard also works in both wet and dry environments, such as the pool to the playground, and back again. A quick-dry rash guard will avoid irritating your infant’s skin.

  • 2. What’s the purpose of a rash guard?

    A rash guard is designed to protect people’s skin from both the sun’s rays and rashes or abrasions when worn. Typically designated as an athletic shirt, it’s ideal for active babies, as well as infants who are spending any amount of time outdoors, rain or shine.

  • 3. Do I still need to apply sunscreen if my baby is wearing a rash guard?

    Since a rash guard only protects the skin it covers, sunscreen must still be worn on any exposed body parts, as well as under the rash guard if outside for extended periods of time. Be sure to apply sunscreen near the sleeve cuffs and around the neckline to guarantee optimal UVA and UVB protection.

  • 4. What size rash guard should I get my baby?

    When purchasing a rash guard for your infant, reference the company’s sizing guide to ensure a proper fit. If in between sizes, opt for a larger size as oftentimes the tight knit of the rash guard fabric can be challenging to pull over an infant’s head. Be sure you don’t order a rash guard that’s too large as that might leave some unexpected areas of skin exposed to the sun.

  • 5. How do I care for my baby rash guard?

    Be sure to follow the care instructions on the particular rash guard you select. Many rash guards are machine washable, but most recommend hand washing your rash guard and laying it flat to air dry to extend its life. To get the most life out of your baby rash guard, avoid the dryer.

Conclusion

A baby rash guard is the perfect solution to protect your infant from the sun’s rays while outside. Built for the pool or playground, rash guards allow you to protect your little one’s skin from harmful rays, which is exceptionally important for babies too young for sunscreen and older babies who won’t sit still long enough for a thorough application. Whether you opt for a zippered, full-body one piece or two separates, there are numerous rash guard designs that fit your price point. A baby rash guard is a must-have baby item for summer and beyond.