Splish Splash – Here’s what you need to make pool day a blast
Finding that you’re not quite as prepared for a fun day at the pool with the kids? Here are all of our favorite things to have the best pool day.

Disclosure: One Little Small is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. The links in this post are affiliate links, meaning if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a small commission. I selected the products in this guide because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
For the Momma
A Sun Hat
This year I decided to upgrade from the baseball hat I never remembered to grab to an actual sun hat. I really like this one because it is UPF 50 and has a wide brim to fully shade my face from the sun. I’ve found that it’s durable and stays on my head.
Swimsuit Cover Up
Another pool day item I upgrade this year was my swimsuit cover up. Gone are the old t-shirt and ratty shorts from high school. And in their place is this lovely, breezy, button-down swimsuit cover up shirt. It comes in a huge selection of colors and runs true to size (although size up if you’re expecting this summer).
Beach Bag
There are tons of options for a great pool (or beach bag) out there. I like how this one is a good size and has tons of pockets – including a built-in wet compartment for your swimsuits.
Multipurpose Utility Bag
I opted to use a multipurpose utility bag for our pool bag this year. It holds several oversized towels, our lunch bag, change of clothes, and puddle jumper. It’s so nice to have everything fit in one bag.
For the Kiddos
Child Life Best
Because our son is still working on his swimming skills, we opted a flotation device while swimming at the community pool. As always, you should make the best decision for your family based on your needs. This is what we used for our son when he was a toddler.
Splash Jammer
This is the flotation device we use at the pool now that my son is a bit larger. Again, please make the best decision for your family when purchasing.
Stack & Pour Buckets
My mom picked these up for the pool last summer, and even though they are a bath toy, they’ve been a hit at the pool for all ages.
Water Blaster Soaker Toys
These water blaster soaker toys are so much fun to use at the pool – or even in your own backyard. And they’re simple enough for a toddler to use too.
Sun Protection
Mineral Sunscreen
I had a difficult time finding mineral sunscreen to use on my son that I wasn’t allergic to. But this is the second summer we are using this brand, and we’ve been very happy with it so far!
Craft Ink Blending Brushes
The best summer parenting hack by far is using these blending brushes to put on sunscreen. I purchased a brush from a friend, and liked it so much I bought a whole pack to keep one handy at all times.
Baby Sun Hat
Baby girl isn’t here quite yet, but she’s ready for a day at the pool with this adorable sun hat. I like that it provides sun protection and comes in a huge variety of colors.
Looking for a spot to cool down with all your new pool day gear? Head over to my list of all the Cincinnati Splash Pads!
Thank you for checking out my pool day gear guide! Hope you have the best summer day now that you’re all set for some fun in the sun – and pool!