Reusable swim diapers work primarily by containing solid waste while allowing liquid (like urine and pool water) to pass through.
Unlike regular diapers designed to absorb liquids, swim diapers, both reusable and disposable, are not designed to hold urine. Their main function is to act as a barrier to prevent feces from entering the water, ensuring hygiene and compliance with pool regulations.
Key Features for Containment
Reusable swim diapers achieve their containment goal through specific design elements:
- Elastic Leg Cuffs: A crucial feature is the presence of elastic at the leg cuffs. This elastic creates a snug seal around the baby's thighs, which is essential to aid containment and prevent solid waste from escaping into the pool.
- Snug Fit: Beyond the legs, a good reusable swim nappy will fit snugly around the waist as well, providing an effective barrier for every type of poop.
Two-Part System
Sometimes, reusable swim nappies can be used as a two-part nappy system. This might involve using a separate cover over an inner layer, offering potentially enhanced containment or absorbency (though the primary function remains solid containment).
Reusable vs. Disposable Swim Diapers
Here's a simple comparison based on their primary function in water:
| Feature | Reusable Swim Diaper | Disposable Swim Diaper |
|---|---|---|
| Main Goal | Contain solids | Contain solids |
| Holds Urine? | No | No |
| Absorption | Minimal to none | Minimal to none (swells less than regular diapers) |
| Containment | Relies on snug fit, elastic legs, potentially multi-part system | Relies on snug fit, elastic legs |
In summary, reusable swim diapers are specialized garments designed solely to catch and hold solid waste during water activities, using features like elastic leg cuffs for effective containment.
