Toddlers and small children enjoy spending time with their parents in a swimming pool, especially during the summer. It is fun to buy swimwear for the tiny tots, and some who still wear diapers may need another artifact. Keep in mind that there is a misconception about swim diapers and their reliability, and experts from reputable educational institutions state that swim diapers may not keep the water clean. Eventually, it can lead to problems if sick children jump into a pool.
The Norovirus
The Norovirus is a viral infection that can cause vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. Formerly known as the Norwalk virus, it causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and large intestine. Symptoms often start suddenly and can last 24 to 60 hours.
The CDC estimates that norovirus infections cause 23 million cases of gastroenteritis in the United States every year.
A child can get Norovirus from other body fluids, and if they get into a pool, it could be transmitted to other children if they ingest water or even touch their mouths with wet hands.
Although the Norovirus can affect people of any age, young children are particularly susceptible to dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting.
Sports drinks with sodium and potassium can help compensate for the fluid loss in mild cases. But intravenous fluid replacement may be necessary if a child cannot keep the drink down.
How Reliable is a Swim Diaper?
There is a reality; swim diapers are for retaining solid waste.
However, when it comes to the runs, it can become ineffective.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that no swim diaper is leak-proof, and no manufacturer claims its products prevent diarrhea leakage. Swim diapers can delay diarrhea-causing germs, like Cryptosporidium, from leaking into the water for a few minutes, but swim diapers do not keep these germs from contaminating the water.
Swim diapers and swim pants are not substitutes for frequent diaper changing and bathroom breaks. It is recommended that swim diapers and swim pants are checked frequently and changed out away from the poolside. For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/swimmers/swim-diapers-swim-pants.html for more details regarding children using swim diapers and tips on how to keep your pool healthy.
A manufacturer of swim diapers in Georgia also recommends that young children take frequent bathroom breaks and immediately remove any child who has a bowel movement in the pool. Young children who have just gone to the bathroom are at risk for accidents because they are distracted by play. Still, parents should never think that every child is wearing a swim diaper that is safe to be in the water. On the contrary, parents must supervise carefully to avoid accidents in the water. If you have a child that requires wearing a swim diaper, ensure to read the safety precautions and proper use.
How to Buy a Swim Diaper
When buying swim diapers, pay attention to the following things:
Style:
First, consider whether you prefer reusable diapers or disposable diapers. Although you’ll have to pay more for a reusable diaper initially, you’ll likely save money in the long run – especially if your little one swims frequently.
If you only go to the pool occasionally, you may find diapers cheaper and more convenient since they are disposable after use. However, they are usually not as conformable and leak-proof as reusable diapers.
Also, reusable diapers are more stylish than disposable diapers (as mentioned earlier are better for the environment).
Fit:
For a swim diaper to do what it’s supposed to – keep accidents away – it needs to fit a little tighter than a regular diaper. For this reason, many diapers are cut more tightly at the sides, waist, or leg openings. As with regular diapers, most pool diapers’ size goes on weight, so check the packaging and the manufacturer’s size chart. Do not be surprised if the diaper looks like it fits a little too tight.
Price:
Since reusable diapers are often customizable, they offer a better value because you can use the same diaper until your child is potty trained.