Parents all over the country are eagerly counting down the days until their children finish school for the most eagerly-awaited – and thankfully, longest – holiday of the year: the summer. Hotels are booked, kids’ club spots are reserved, arm bands and lilos have been purchased, and passports are all up to date. All that’s left is for teachers to bid their young ones adieu for six whole weeks, and mum and dad’s summer vacation can commence.

However, this week, as millions of families prepare to head to the airport, experts are advising parents to double-check their kids’ swimwear.

Worrisome Findings on Swimwear Colors

A recent study revealed concerning news: the most popular colors for children’s swimwear, for both boys and girls, are blue, white, and grey. This preference can have serious safety implications. Two-thirds (66%) of children wear these colors, but they are very difficult to see underwater.

While you might think there’s nothing wrong with your child wearing their favorite blue swimsuit, these colors can make children almost invisible underwater. This poses a significant risk as it can be challenging for parents, lifeguards, and others to spot children if they’re in trouble.

What Experts Are Saying

According to color expert Lee Chambers, “It can be much harder to see swimwear in blue, white, and grey due to how water interacts differently with certain wavelengths of light, how we perceive color at depth when submersed, lack of light reflection, and how color blends when underwater.”

He adds that the lack of contrast and the camouflage effect contribute to these colors being difficult to discern, thus posing a safety risk compared to brighter colors like red or yellow that stand out more underwater.

The study also found that 90 percent of parents were unaware that certain swimwear colors are not easily visible underwater, and many were horrified upon learning the risks. A similar percentage of parents believe there should be greater awareness about this issue.

Olympian Speaks Out

Olympic swimmer and mother-of-two, Rebecca Adlington, has been vocal about this issue. She is campaigning for new legislation to limit the sale of blue, white, and grey swimwear for kids. “I’ve swum my entire life and I’ve only recently become aware that there are certain colors that can’t be seen underwater,” she said. “As a parent, I feel like I should have been aware of this sooner.”

Swimming instructor and TikTok star Nikki Scarnati has also issued warnings. “Don’t buy blue bathing suits,” she urged. Nikki even filmed her daughter swimming in a light blue swimsuit to show how difficult it is to see in the water, especially when other kids are splashing around.

She suggests choosing brighter shades like red, pink, and purple, which stand out more and are easier to spot underwater.

Stay Safe This Summer

As you prepare for your summer holiday, a simple step like choosing the right color swimsuit can make all the difference. Opt for bright, easily noticeable colors to ensure your child’s safety in the water. It’s a small change that could have a significant impact.

Have a wonderful and safe summer holiday!