SPF child clothing

The use of SPF child clothing is an option that is becoming very much more popular with those people who love the outdoors and wish to include their young children in their outdoor activities.

Protecting our children

When it comes to protecting ourselves from the sun's harmful UV rays, most of us are pretty diligent about making sure we protect our precious children with such things as sunscreen. When choosing a sunscreen, the SPF (Sun Protection factor) is a crucial guiding line and one that most of us know all about. What many of us do not know much about, is the fact that there are certain materials that contain a SPF and that these are great alternatives to, or additions to, sun protection.

Young children, especially those under 6 months old, are very much more prone to sun burn when exposed to the sun whilst unprotected, than adults are. Young skin is thinner and therefore more sensitive than a matured skin, which means that any damage that occurs can be very harmful and potentially fatal. Educating yourselves and your children about sensible sun care habits is vital, but shouldn't stop at the use of sunscreens.

SPF Clothing

The SPF materials are made of a tightly woven knit, which physically prevents ultraviolet rays from penetrating through the fabric and onto your child's skin. This is a similar action to the physical sunscreens, as opposed to the chemical sunscreens and as such is far more appealing than the chemical sunscreen options out there. Even though tightly woven, the fabric is also lightweight and breathes well, so is wonderfully light, cool and practical to wear.

UPF measurement

SPF child clothing is measured through an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). UPF is like the Sun Protective Factor (SPF) used with sunscreens, in that both UPF and SPF measure against sunburn protection. However, there is key differentiator in the UPF in that it measures both UVA and UVB radiation protection, whereas SPF is a measurement of UVB radiation protection only.

Fabrics seeking to acquire a UPF certification must:

  • Undergo 40 simulated launderings
  • Be exposed to 100 fading units of simulated sunlight (equivalent to 2 years light exposure)
  • If intended for swim wear, be exposed to chlorinated and salted water

    • Key Benefits of SPF Child Clothing

  • 50+ UPF provides over 97.5% sun protection from both UVA & UVB rays
  • Compared with sunscreen it is far more convenient, doesn't wash off with sweat or when swimming, and covers your skin without application hassles
  • It contains no toxic chemicals that will either affect your child or the environment
  • Compared with T-shirt type material, SPF child clothing uses breathable, quick drying fabric that provides over 5 times the SPF/UPF protection
  • Reduces salty sea water and sand irritation, making it ideal for all beach games, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and boogie boarding
  • Good insulation provides a cooling effect for the skin from the heat of the sun's rays, as well as warmth in cold water
  • Durable wearing means most children wear them for two summer seasons, as it is strong enough to ward off damage caused by the sun, salt water or chlorine
  • Quick drying makes it very easy to wear when swimming or at water parks
  • Lastly, bright colors enable spotting your child much easier in the crowds!

    • SPF Child Clothing range

    Starting with babies, there are one-piece baby UV swimsuits with zippered fronts, and baby swim shirts that can be matched with swim leggings or board shorts. Some suits have snaps at the crotch. There are also infant bathing suits with matching swim shirts and sun hats. Hats range from wide rimmed, to those with extra protection flaps down the back of the neck. For those not yet potty trained, there are swim diaper shorts.

    Kids sun protection clothing includes extensive ranges of colorful UV swimwear and one-piece sun suits. There are short sleeves or long sleeves, matching short, knee-length or long pants, or leggings. You can pair a swim shirt with sun protective swim shorts, board shorts or swim tights for boys and girls.

    All styles are usually chlorine resistant and offer 50+ SPF/UPF sun protection.

    Sizes usually include:

  • 0 - 1 Babies 0-6 Months
  • 1 - 3 Babies 6-18 Months
  • 4 - 5 Toddlers. From size 4 upwards, where a 4 fits most 2 year olds
  • 6 - 8 Infants sizing usually up to about 8

    • Sun protective baby blanket

    Used as a stroller cover, as a beach blanket or at the pool for a little extra warmth. Usually made with a soft fabric like Lycra, they have a high UPF rating of UPF 50+.

    Sunglasses

    There are sunglasses made especially for children from 0-6 years. Usually specifically created and tested by leading names in the sunglasses world, they aim to provide 100% protection from the sun's UVA & UVB rays and provide protection for children's sensitive eyes.

    Some sunglasses provide elements such as polycarbonate frames and lenses, which provide a shatterproof quality, which can be reassuring when you have very active children, as most tend to be!

    Some sunglasses even provide adjustable velcro to allow for growth in your child.

    From coveralls, shorts and shirts to swimwear, you'll be able to build your own SPF child clothing wardrobe for those sunny days.




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