Best Floaties for 18 Month-Olds

Choosing the right floaties for an 18-month-old can be challenging, as babies and toddlers have different needs when it comes to swimming equipment. However, there are several floaties specifically designed for larger babies and toddlers that offer comfort, support, and buoyancy to help them enjoy the water safely.

Best Floaties for 18-Month-Olds: Top Picks

1. Stearns Puddle Jumper Infant Hydrophone Life Jacket

• Safety: 5/5
• Comfort: 5/5
• Ease of Use: 4/5
• Durability: 5/5
• Adjustability: 4/5
• Key Features: Neck cushion, extra floats around the back of the neck, Type II US Coastguard-approved inflation for infants under 30 pounds.
• Pros: Famous brand of US Coastguard-approved flotation devices, comfortable for the child, easy to use, durable.
• Cons: Poorly designed zipper. Leg straps can be adjusted but not the chest. Pink color may not be popular among all children.

2. Stohlquist Toddler Life Jacket

• Safety: 3.5/5
• Comfort: 5/5
• Ease of Use: 5/5
• Durability: 4/5
• Adjustable chest clip.
• Key Features: Open back, adjustable, fits most infants until they are ready for the child-weight range (around 25 lb to 50 lb).
• Pros: Adjustment in fit, allows child to move arms freely while keeping afloat, open back design for better cooling when not in water.
• Cons: Does not flip child to their back and is pricier than some other options.

3. Body Glove Paddle Pals Learn To Swim Life Jacket

• Safety: 5/5
• Comfort: 4/5
• Ease of Use: 5/5
• Durability: 5/5
• Adjustable shoulder straps, good balance between mobility and buoyancy.
• Key Features: US Coast Guard-approved, Type III device, offers extra mobility and is safe for water play and boating.
• Pros: Affordable and has no additional shoulder straps, good fit for lighter weight children, can be adjusted to accommodate growing sizes.
• Cons: Limited adjustability for different sizes. May be difficult for children to take off on their own if they accidentally fall into the water.

Features to Consider When Choosing a 18-Month-Old's Pool Floatie

When selecting a pool floatie for an 18-month-old, there are several features to consider to ensure the floatie is both comfortable and safe for your child:

1. Size: Ensure the floatie fits well without being too tight or too loose, and adjustability features like Velcro or snap-closing straps can be helpful to ensure it stays put.

2. Comfort and Fit: Opt for soft, flexible materials that will be comfortable against the skin, and avoid粗糙 edges that could cause friction or irritation.

3. Buoyancy and Support: Look for floaties that offer adequate buoyancy to keep the child afloat in the water, and be aware of the weight limits and recommended age ranges for each floatie to ensure it's appropriate for your child.

4. Durability: Choose floaties made with high-quality materials and designed to withstand wear and tear, such as neoprene or other waterproof fabrics, to ensure they last longer.

5. Color and Design: Selecting a colorful or fun design can help keep your child engaged and interested in the water activities, but avoid bright or reflective colors that could be distracting or potentially harmful to their eyes.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a pool floatie that not only provides comfort and safety for your 18-month-old but also encourages them to enjoy water play and develop essential swimming skills in a fun and enjoyable way.