Summer is a perfect season to take your family to the beach, even little family members. And to feel safe and comfortable, think over the bare essentials you and your kids will need. You can start with a beach towel, which is a go-to piece while relaxing on a beach. Let’s get the hang of the main factors to consider when choosing the perfect baby beach towel.
Research the Right Towel Material
Picking the correct material for the clothing will help avoid a messy baby. Cotton is widely used for its comfort and inherent ability to soak up moisture. It’s very smooth on the skin and becomes even softer each time it’s washed. On the other side, cotton takes some time to dry and feels heavy when wet.
Microfiber is extremely compact, and it dries up very fast. This is quite a highly absorbent material, which comes in handy during long days at the beach. Some parents worry about the synthetic nature of microfiber, though.
For those who prefer using environmentally friendly products, bamboo towels are becoming increasingly popular. They are inherently antiseptic, gentle on the baby’s skin, and excellent at absorbing moisture. Many parents also opt for personalized beach towels that can be made from various materials and add a special touch to your baby’s beach gear.
Size and Shape Considerations
You can find a myriad of types of baby beach towels, which can be of different sizes and shapes. Standard sizes usually vary between 30×30 inches to 40×40 inches. Larger sizes provide more area coverage and can be used as a cover blanket. In contrast, smaller baby beach towels are easier to carry around. It’s convenient to wrap a baby with it with no excessive edges hanging around.
There are hooded towels on the market. They give extra coverage to the head and neck. Such a towel is ideal for drying up a squirmy baby. Regular rectangular towels, however, offer more versatility and can be used in multiple ways. Some parents prefer to bring a regular beach towel and a separate sun hat for added protection.
When choosing a beach towel for a baby, its size should correspond with the age and size of your little one. A newborn will require a size that will be different from that required by a toddler. Also, consider how you will be using the towel on the beach. Is it just for toweling off after a swim? Or do you require a beach towel that can also be used for changing clothes or as a picnic cloth?
Safety Features to Look for
The safety of the child should always be a paramount consideration when selecting baby products, and beach towels are no exception. Choose a towel that is made from hypoallergenic materials. This will lower the chances of developing a skin rash or an allergy. Some babies may be sensitive to some fabrics or dyes used in producing the clothes.
UV protection is another important safety aspect that should be considered. Regardless of your baby’s skin color, sun protection is a must to prevent sunburn, skin drying, and heat rash. Certain beach towels have UV protection coating. This add-on can offer an additional layer of protection from the sun. The towel should not be a substitute for the appropriate use of sunscreen and shade, but it can provide added reassurance.
Pay attention to the dyes and treatments used in the towel. Pick beach products that come with non-toxic or baby-safe dyes. Organic and eco-friendly options may incorporate such safety features that are a good choice for health-conscious parents.
Design and Functionality
There is no guilt in wanting a baby beach towel that is as cute as it’s comfortable. Modern baby towels for the beach come in sweet designs and bright colors that both parents and babies will fall in love with. Whether you like cute animals, polka dots, or stripes, they have everything for your preference.
However, design is not just about appearance. This is why functional features can have such a significant impact on usability. There are beach towels that are designed with pockets. There, you can place stuff like pacifiers, toys, and other small items. Others have ties or snaps that allow them to be worn like a cape. Such a trinket keeps your hands free so you can carry other beach essentials.
There is a growing trend of multipurpose designs. These could be towels/blankets that can be used for drying or wiping the body or for changing the baby’s diaper. Such versatile options can help reduce the amount of gear you need to pack for a day at the beach.
Absorbency and Quick-Drying Properties
The main function of a beach towel is to dry a wet baby, and therefore, it should be highly absorbent. Consider choosing an item that can easily absorb as much water as possible without becoming saturated and weighing a lot. This is especially important for babies, as their skin can turn cold if they stay wet for a long time.
Quick-drying properties are equally important. It’s easier to wash off odors and sanitize a towel that does not retain moisture between washes. It’s also more convenient for parents, as it can be packed away sooner without dampening other items in the beach bag.
Microfiber, for instance, performs well across both the absorption and the drying features. Some people may value one of these properties more than the other. When deciding between the two, take into account your individual requirements.
Durability and Maintenance
A good baby beach towel should be durable and can withstand frequent wash. The edges of such a towel should be reinforced so that the seam is strong and free from fraying after several washes.
Pay attention to washing instructions. Some of the beach towels might need proper care to remain soft in absorbing water. As with most fabrics, wash the towel in cold water and avoid using fabric softeners. Air-drying is typically advised, although you can always check the care label for the specific towel.
Proper storage can also expand the life of your beach towel. Don’t hide the bench towel in the cabinet while it’s still wet. Try rolling the product instead of folding it to keep the shape of the towel and to prevent creasing.
The top factors to consider when selecting a baby beach towel include material, size, and safety features. Through knowledge of these specific needs, it’s easy to find that perfect towel that will make beach days with the baby more convenient. This guide will help you find a real gem that will serve for several seasons and even multiple children.
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