10 Best Baby Floats Reviewed in 2024
Stacey Joseph
When you have access to a pool, a lake, or the ocean and you want to enjoy it with your infant, the best way to do that is to have a baby float. Companies make some incredible designs for these items that are so comfortable and supportive for the child to enjoy the water. Parents will love not having to hold the baby constantly to keep it above the waterline.
We have chosen the floats with the most reviews and the best ratings that you will love. Each has its own protective aspects to prevent tipping over and most come with toys for the child to play with as they float. We analyze the best baby floats according to their protection, style, entertainment value, and age range for you to help with the decision-making.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 37 hrs of research
Safety valves and double air chambers
Canopy is detachable
Sun protection of 50+
Highly portable - folds up easily
Comes with a carrying bag
10 Best Baby Floats Reviewed
1. SwimWays Spring Sun Canopy
Safety valves and double air chambers
Canopy is detachable
Sun protection of 50+
Highly portable - folds up easily
Comes with a carrying bag
Baby could sit low in the water
Sun protection could be better
The Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy comes in three different colors and has been reviewed by more than 1,600 customers online. This is one of the most popular baby swim floats offered online.
Read moreThis infant pool float has a mesh soft seat with leg holes that are secure for free kicking underwater. Included for safety and stability are safety valves, a patented internal spring, and double air chambers. The canopy is detachable and includes sides of mesh material. It gives the child the protection of 50+ from the sun. This baby float is highly portable because it folds up easily and comes with a carrying bag.
Age range
The space inside this item is generous to fit babies from 9 to 24 months old. It is important that the child is old enough to be able to hold their own head up by themselves.
Entertainment value
Babies just have to sit in the mesh seat of this float to enjoy the refreshing pool water and the company of mom and dad. There is enough surface area for small water toys to play with.
Style
Made like a child seat for water purposes, this float product has a large circumference, comfortable seat, and a sun canopy to protect the child from the sun when in the pool.
Protection
Several parts were incorporated into this design to make the child in it safe. There are safety valves, a spring on the inside, and double chambers that inflate. These ensure there is enough air to float the child.
2. SwimWays Spring Activity Center
Large octopus toy with smaller toys
Canopy and the octopus can be removed
50+ protection from the sun
See-through sides of mesh
Portable bag for carrying the item
Can be troublesome to inflate without a pump
Baby sits low in this in the water
Available in the design of a lobster or an octopus, this float device is similar to the previous one but with some variation. It includes a portable bag for carrying the folded float and is ideal for those 9 to 24 months old.
Read moreThe large octopus in the front is a plaything for kids as they enjoy the water. It can turn completely around and holds smaller toys in its arms. There is a rattle, a squeaker, a soft star, and stacking rings. The canopy and the octopus toy can be removed. Safety features include an innerspring for stability, dual chambers for the air, and valves that are safe for kids. The canopy gives 50+ protection from the sun and has see-through sides of mesh.
Age range
To protect your child in the water and keep them afloat, this baby float is fabulous. It is best for those 9 months old to 24 months old and allows the child to float hands-free from the parents.
Entertainment value
Unlike the previous baby float listed, this one has a huge toy on the front to interact with while enjoying the pool. Not only can babies play with it but also the four smaller toys it holds.
Style
This baby float with canopy is perfect for infants and young toddlers who want to be in the water with the family. It has several safety features, gorgeous colors, and a sun canopy to shade them well.
Protection
Your child gets both sun protection and floating protection with he double chamber of air in the swirls of the product. Kids will be very safe with parents nearby in this baby swimming ring made for them.
3. Intex Kiddie
Double chambers for air
Leg holes are smooth and comfortable
A sunshade is included and inflatable
Colorful hand bar with toy balls inside
Tropical design with colorful stars
The seat can be rigid – the baby does not sit far in water
Canopy is not removable
Looking like a little floating island for the baby, the Intex Kiddie Float is well decorated and tropical looking in a light blue color with fancy stars. It includes a sunshade and is perfect for those infants aged one to two years old.
Read moreThis baby float with canopy has double chambers for air to be easier to inflate and safer for the child. The leg holes are smooth and comfortable for the baby to sit in for a period of time while in the water. a colorful hand bar is attached to one side that has three balls inside. One is a rattle and the other two are made of plastic. They will give the infant a safe toy to play with as he or she dangles their legs in the pool.
Age range
Those of the age one or two would be best suited to use this baby swim float for their safe time in a swimming pool. Parents will have to be close to monitor them for the best safety.
Entertainment value
Enjoying the water and the people in the pool will be exciting for the child especially in this float item. When the novelty of that experience wears out, then the infant can play with the colorful balls and rattle in the hand bar.
Style
We think this float product looks like a small blue island. It is very exotic in appearance and color. Included is a sunshade and a hand bar toy on the side to intrigue the baby.
Protection
The double chambers to inflate are safer for kids because the whole item will not deflate if there is a leak or puncture. Having a sun canopy keeps the baby out of the full force of the sun too.
4. V Convey Non-Inflatable
No worries of leaks or repairs
Good for those with sensitive skin
Head rest at the top
Five support points for safety
Comes with three water squirt toys
A few people did not like the quality
The buckle gave some parents trouble
For an infant pool float that does not have to be inflated try this Baby Mambobaby Float that has an exterior of soft swim cloth material and an inside of pearl foam substance.
Read moreOffered in green or blue color, this float product does not inflate, will not slip, and will not leak or need repairs. Those 3 to 12 months old should use the backstroke while those 3 to 24 months will be comfortable performing the breaststroke with this device. More secure, safer, and easier to use than inflatables, it is comfortable, soft, and lightweight. The child will not flip over or backward with the leg support of the crotch strap.
Age range
You can start your child with this baby float as young as three months old. It is usable for a long time because it can hold kids to the age of two years old to help them get practice with swimming.
Entertainment value
It comes with three water squirt toys to play within the pool, plus they can do the breaststroke or the backstroke depending on the age of the child while this float holds them up.
Style
It is a fun swimming ring that includes a safety buckle as a harness to hold the child’s head and upper torso above the water so he or she can swim. Actual swimming can take place with the help of this product.
Protection
The buckles are easy to operate and provide five support points in the crotch, waist, and shoulders with the straps. They hold the child to the floatation device and keep them from tipping over.
5. Delicacy Inflatable Ring
Dual airbags for a good positioning
Backrest-waist belt for water safety
Made of eco-friendly high-quality PVC grains
Manual pump for inflation and carrying bag
Two water squirt toys
Some people experienced leaks
Older toddlers can possibly flip this over
Ideal for kids 6 to 30 months in age, the Delicacy Baby Swimming Float has the support of a soft cushion to keep the child in place and does not allow flipping over or sliding.
Read moreThe headrest is also used to keep their face out of the water, and the belly is guarded by the centerpiece. It features dual airbags for a good position of swimming and has a comfortable backrest-waist belt for water safety. Made of eco-friendly, high-quality PVC grains, this baby swimming ring is durable and non-toxic. This float for babies comes with a manual pump for inflation, a carrying bag, and two enjoyable water squirt toys.
Age range
Kids as young as six months old can begin to enjoy this floating device made just for them. the belt attaches to them securely and safely to keep their heads above the waterline.
Entertainment value
If playing in the pool is not enough enjoyment for the baby, then they can play with the two includes squirt toys that come with this purchase. Floating and kicking will be the main activity with this item.
Style
It looks like a life preserver for infants but is really a float that straps to them for buoyancy. The child is safe to float in the pool on the supportive double airbag structure.
Protection
No matter if the child is on their belly or on their back, the headrest keeps their face out of the water. with the harness and the shape of the product, flipping and sliding are prohibited.
6. Intex Recreation Froggy Friend
Bright and vibrant coloration
Happy frog design
Lily pad for a sunshade
Comfortable leg holes
Three chambers for air
Has little back support
Does not provide much shade
The Intex Recreation Froggy Friend Baby Float has bright and vibrant coloration of two shades of green and a yellow bottom. The happy frog design will make anyone smile because it is so adorable!
Read moreSun protection is given to the baby with the cute lily pad on a stem over the seat. The product information says this item is for children three to four years in age, but that must be a misprint. It is good for babies that are at least six months old according to customers. There are three chambers to inflate, which may seem troublesome. This is a safety feature for the child.
Age range
Based on parent feedback, infant as young as six months can be placed safely in this baby pool float. The company states it is for three to four-year-olds but far younger kids can enjoy this too.
Entertainment value
Floating in a frog is a unique experience for a child. the fun does not stop with just the kicking and swimming in the water because the frog features offer plenty of playing opportunities too.
Style
This is one of the cutest floats for infants that we have seen! It is not only the frog and lily pad design but the colors as well that makes you instantly happy to see it. kids will love it and be attracted instantly.
Protection
If this item only had one chamber for air, if it had a leak or suddenly deflated, the child would be in immediate danger in the water. The three chambers are protective, so there is always at least one with air for floating.
7. PEFECEVE Inflatable Waist Ring
Large and a small size
Swimming buoy that detaches
Bottom support and a safety buckle
Adjustable straps for customized fit
Folds easily for transport and storage
Was too flimsy for a few people
Too small for some kids over a year old
This pretty bluish green Inflatable Swimming Pool Float comes in a large and a small size and includes a swimming buoy that detaches. The smart design is anti-flip, and the airbags are leakproof.
Read moreThere is bottom support to prevent flipping and sliding plus a safety buckle for great floating protection. Created of leakproof and durable, environment-friendly PVC material, this infant floatie meets the standards of COA, CPC, ASTM for toy safety and is non-toxic and safe. It comes with a tube for deflating and a manual pump to inflate, so you do not have to use your own breath. Obstetrician recommended for swim training, this fabulous product folds easily for transport and storage and has a dual air chamber.
Age range
Kids 6 to 36 months old can fit into this swimming pool float easily because it comes in two sizes. It makes them feel safe in the water and gives them a free-range at swimming on their own.
Entertainment value
Not having any extra toys or accessories that come with this product, the main focus for kids is the swimming and floating in the water. this can be used in any body of water such as a pool or at the beach.
Style
As a ring in two varied sizes, this baby float comes with devices to inflate and deflate it and a harness to hold it onto the child. With the adjustable straps, kids of a good age range can use this floatation.
Protection
The materials used for this item are safe for the child as well as the design. It holds the baby in a good position in the water and buckles to them for a safe experience while swimming.
8. Peradix with Canopy Shade
Made of non-toxic durable PVC
Includes sand molds, repair patch, and sun hat
Spinning steering wheel with working horn
Canopy for sun protection detaches
Good for the beach, swimming pool, or large tub
Some had canopy troubles
Horn did not work well for a few buyers
Made of non-toxic durable PVC material and in the shape of a cute orange whale, this Baby Pool Float comes with a sun hat for the child, sand molds for play, and a repair patch for leaks.
Read moreThe sun hat keeps the child from becoming burnt by the sun, plus there is a sun canopy also. It detaches easily since it is not needed on cloudy days or play in the evenings. There is a small steering wheel that really spins on the front of the toy with a working horn in the middle to replicate the driving of a boat. This baby swim float has a weight limit of 35 pounds and is best for babies that are 6 to 36 months in age. Use this product at the beach, in a large tub, or at the swimming pool.
Age range
You can begin enjoying this amazing whale swimming float with the baby when he or she is just six months old. They can enjoy it up until the age of three years for water safety.
Entertainment value
There are several activities to do with this wonderful water toy for the infant. of course, they will enjoy being in the water and moving around, but the fun steering wheel and the added sand molds are fun too.
Style
You will want to break out the camera for pictures when you see your little one in this splendid whale float. It has a steering wheel for the activity with a horn that squeaks plus some toys to play with.
Protection
The baby gets double protection with this incredible swimming toy since it has a canopy and a sun hat to wear. The child can move out of the protection of the sun canopy sometimes but will be fully guarded with the hat.
9. Ayeboovi Inflatable
Safe and non-toxic for children
Two grips for the hands to hold onto
Installed safety valves to stop leaks
Thick and comfortable for back and tummy support
Inflatable and detachable canopy
A few had troubles with the canopy staying upright
Some had issues with the toy deflating overnight
This baby swimming float is perfect for infants 9 to 36 months old and created of top-quality PVC material. It is safe and non-toxic for children with a detachable and inflatable sunshade.
Read moreIt is perfect for good back and tummy support while enjoying the water. The infant stays hidden from the direct rays of the sun with the inflatable canopy. The baby sits inside the shark’s mouth for a hilarious sight perfect for photos. It is stable with the tail and fins plus the large circumference of the toy so flipping will not occur. A repair patch is included but leaking is prevented with the incorporated safety valves.
Age range
Babies from nine months old to three years old will love to be in this shark float to enjoy the water with the family. It gives them a chance to move about in the pool freely without the parents hanging on.
Entertainment value
There are built-in bells in the shark’s teeth to attract kids and entertain them. They can also play with the inflated teeth and mouthparts of the shark while they relax or kick in the water.
Style
The wonderful design is of a blue and white shark complete with big white inflatable teeth, a tail, and flippers. These features are installed to keep the device from toppling over easily.
Protection
This baby swimming ring has two grips for the hands for the child to hold onto and a thick and comfortable perimeter wall. There are safety valves to keep leaks to a minimum.
10. Revoq Original Flamingo
Design of a cute pink flamingo
Bright, vivid, colorful, and eye-catching
System of double valves
Back support included
Side bumpers to prevent tipping
Has no sun canopy
Needs a support in the front for the tummy
Made in the shape and design of a pink flamingo that is bright, colorful, and eye-catching, this baby pool float is made of a durable vinyl material. it has a system of double valves for the best floatation and covers a wide area for the most room for the child.
Read moreThe baby can stay in this floatation device longer than with some other models with comfortable seating. It is good for pools, at the beach, or even the lake. Included is a back support that inflates with the toy and a double ring of inflatable protection surrounding the infant. The side bumpers keep the toy from tipping over accidentally. It is best for those eight months old to five years old depending on the size of the child.
Age range
Depending on the size and weight of the baby, he or she can use this flamingo floatie for several years of fun. It is best for those as young as eight months but can be used even years later.
Entertainment value
The neck of the flamingo is not just for decoration as it can be a focal point for the infant to play with too. Kids love grabbing the neck for balance and for interest as they float in the refreshing water.
Style
This pink flamingo is ready to support your baby in the water with its double ring of air and protective side bumpers to keep it from tipping. Everyone will love the vivid and bright pink coloration and design.
Protection
Your child will safely remain afloat with this double ring and protective bumpers. The seating is comfortable for the baby to remain in the water for longer periods of enjoyment.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Age Range
These floatation devices all have their particular age ranges for the best and safest use, but most parents will have to be the best judge as to when to start and stop using them. The general range would be about six months old to two years old for most of them. once the child becomes too heavy for the item to hold them up or they are uncomfortable in it, then it is time to find another float for them.
Entertainment Value
Besides being so cute and great for photo opportunities many of these designs come with things for the child to do when they are in the float. Some come with toys to use separately and others have toys attached. Each one allows the infant to enjoy the water as they could not do otherwise just being supported by the parent. The freedom to kick and paddle on their own is the point of having such infant floaties.
Style
The adorable designs are so fun to look at and relive if you take pictures of your child in them. They all have the basic design of being a floating device to keep the child’s head and face above the water. A few of these products are swimming rings that buckle onto the child for swimming purposes. Older babies will enjoy these the most. The others are floating seats with leg holes that have the inflatable parts surrounding the perimeter. These usually have a protective sun canopy for shade.
Protection
Protection of the inflatable product keeps the infant from being too immersed in the water, so they can enjoy the pool with the family. The parent does not have to constantly hold the baby and can enjoy the water too. About half of these baby floats have sun canopies to shade the baby from the sun. These can detach for evening enjoyment.
Age Range Entertainment Value Style Protection 
Never rely just on the floatation device on babies to keep them afloat and safe in the water. any child under four years old should be watched closely within a few feet range. Parents at gatherings should take turns in watching the young kids near any water activities.
Teach kids how to swim as soon as possible to avoid accidents. Some children under four can learn to swim, but it is mostly those over four that can do it well. Knowing how to swim is not a replacement for parental supervision, however. Young kids should always be watched very closely. It is very helpful for adults to learn CPR to help when accidents occur.
Other Factors to Consider
Safety
Safety valves are in place for the majority of these infant floaties as well as double air chambers to prevent complete deflation if there is a leak or puncture. The safety valves ensure that the air will not come out accidentally when in use in the water. Some parents find that inflating double parts of the product is cumbersome, but it is made this way to prevent complete deflating if there is a leakage problem and the child is in the water.
Physical Development
Having a baby float toy for an infant allows them to experience the water much like anyone else in the family. It holds them up constantly and eliminates the fear of drowning or being too low in the water. Baby floats give them the freedom to splash, kick, and move about in the pool without the parent holding on. These items give the opportunity for gross motor skills, muscle development and exercise that is not normally available in regular play out of the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What are some good swimming pool tips for parents when there are young kids around?
Keep kids away from the drains of pools and hot tubs.
Take away the toys when no one is using the pool to prevent attraction.
Block the entrance to the pool area to keep kids away when parents are not there.
Put in alarms on doors or in the water that lets you know there is movement in the area.
Install a fence around the pool outside to keep stray children out.
q: At what age can a child begin swimming?
Most doctors recommend that a child of one year old can be in the pool with the parents safely. It is best to check with your doctor first before doing this to head off any concerns. Swimming classes for infants begin at six weeks old, so it really is up to the parents as when to start.
q: Are any of these floatation items designs just for boys or girls?
No, these all have colors and styles that are perfect for both sexes. Even the flamingo and the frog will be loved and appreciated by either boys or girls for floating in the water.
q: Do any of these products come with a pump for inflating them?
Yes, some of them do include a manual pump. It is much easier than having to inflate the product with your own breath.
q: Are there any other accessories that are included?
Yes, besides the manual pump that comes with some of these items, several manufacturers included some water squirt toys for playing in the water. there are also carrying bags for some of these floats too.
q: What are some negative things that customers are saying about these baby floats?
Even though some kids are well within the recommended age range, many do not fit into these floating devices. This depends on the development of the baby and how they fit in the item. Others do not like the overall quality of the floats or how the child is supported in them. you do not know how the child will sit in it until you buy one and try it out.
Sources
- , Water safety: Protect your child from drowning, Online Article
- , Is it true that babies are born with the ability to swim?, Online Article
- , Swimming with your baby, Online Article
