FAQ


🧜‍♀️ Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our magical mermaid tails!

📏 Sizing & Fit

How do I choose the right size mermaid tail? +

We always recommend choosing by your child's height in cm rather than their age — children of the same age can vary enormously in size! Use the size chart below as your guide:

Mermaid tail size chart showing height ranges for each size
💡 Not sure? Email us at info@minimermaidtails.com and we'll help you find the perfect fit!
What ages are mermaid tails suitable for? +

Our mermaid tails are sized for children aged 3–12, with larger sizes available for older children and teenagers up to age 16 and beyond. However, for swimming with a monofin, we recommend children are aged 7 or older and are confident, competent swimmers. Younger children aged 3–6 can enjoy wearing a tail for dressing up and paddling, but should not use a monofin in the water. Adult supervision is essential at all times.

What if my child is between sizes? +

If your child is between sizes, we recommend sizing up. The tails are stretchy so a slightly larger size will still fit well and allows room to grow. A tail that's too small will be uncomfortable to get on and off.

💡 If your child has a larger waist for their height, a monofin can help fill out the tail pocket for a better overall fit and shape.

🐟 The Monofin

What is a monofin and do I need one? +

A monofin is a plastic fin covered in neoprene with comfortable padded ankle sections, which fits inside the tail pocket. We highly recommend adding one — and not just for swimming!

  • 🏊‍♀️ For swimming: It enables the dolphin kick technique that propels the tail through the water like a real mermaid. It should only be used in the water by strong, confident swimmers under close adult supervision, as it restricts independent leg movement.
  • 🎭 For dress-up & cosplay: The monofin gives the tail beautiful structure and shape out of the water — without it the tail can look flat and floppy.
  • 📸 For photos: Makes the tail look stunning in photoshoots both in and out of the water.
✨ View our monofin here: https://www.minimermaidtails.com/products/flexible-neoprene-monofin-inserts
Is the monofin included with the tail? +

This varies by product — please check the individual product listing to see what's included. You can also add a monofin separately to your order here: https://www.minimermaidtails.com/products/flexible-neoprene-monofin-inserts

🧺 Care & Washing

How do I wash my mermaid tail? +

Our tails are easy to care for after all those pool adventures!

  • 🌡️ Machine wash on a cool setting or hand wash with a mild detergent
  • 🚫 Do not tumble dry
  • 🚫 Do not iron
  • ✅ Hang to dry — this keeps the colours vibrant for longer
  • 🚫 Avoid scooting, jumping or scraping the fabric on concrete or rough surfaces
💡 Rinse in fresh water after each swim to remove chlorine or salt water — this is the single best thing you can do to extend the life of your tail!
Are your mermaid tails chlorine resistant? +

Yes! Our 89% polyester and 11% spandex fabric is designed to withstand regular pool use. Unlike metallic or sequined tails, our printed designs won't crack, peel or fade with normal use. Rinse in fresh water after each swim and follow the care instructions above to keep your tail looking its best for longer.

🚚 Delivery, Gifting & Returns

How long does UK delivery take? +

We aim to dispatch all orders within 1–2 working days. Standard UK delivery typically takes 3–5 working days after dispatch. All orders arrive in an attractive metallic blue post bag.

🚚 Free UK delivery on all orders over £45!
Are mermaid tails a good birthday or Christmas gift? +

They make a truly magical gift! All orders arrive in an attractive metallic blue post bag, and our complete tail sets — including matching bikini top and bottoms — are beautifully presented inside.

🎁 Birthday treat: Add a note at checkout to let us know it's a birthday gift and we'll include a free mermaid sew-on patch as a little surprise!
💡 Not sure which size to order? Email us at info@minimermaidtails.com before ordering and we'll help you get it right first time.
What is your returns policy? +

We want you to be completely happy with your purchase! If you need to return an item:

  • Items must be returned within 30 days of receipt
  • Items must be unworn, unwashed and in original condition
  • Please contact us first before returning any item

For our full returns policy please visit our Refund Policy page.

Can I exchange for a different size? +

Yes! If the size isn't quite right, please contact us and we'll do our best to help with an exchange. Items must be unworn and in original condition.

💡 Not sure which size to order? Email us before ordering and we'll help you get it right first time!

🏊‍♀️ Safety & Swimming

What swimming ability does my child need to use a mermaid tail? +

Mermaid tails are designed for confident swimmers aged 7 and older who can:

  • ✅ Swim 50 metres freestyle independently
  • ✅ Float comfortably on their front and back
  • ✅ Tread water for at least one minute
  • ✅ Roll from front to back in the water

Because the tail restricts leg movement, your child must be a competent swimmer before using one in water. Children aged 3–6 can enjoy the tail for dress-up and paddling but should not use a monofin in the water.

👨‍👩‍👧 Adult supervision is essential at all times when a child is wearing a mermaid tail in or near water.

For full safety guidance visit our dedicated 🧜 Mermaid Tail Safety Guide.

Can mermaid tails be used in the sea or open water? +

Our mermaid tails are designed for pool use only. We strongly advise against using them in the sea, rivers, lakes, or any open water environment. Open water is unpredictable and a mermaid tail — particularly with a monofin — significantly restricts a child's ability to move their legs independently, which can be extremely dangerous in an emergency.

✅ Safe locations:

  • Supervised swimming pools
  • Aquatic centres with trained staff
  • Controlled, calm water environments with no current

❌ Never use in:

  • The sea or beach environments
  • Rivers or moving water
  • Lakes or open water
  • Any area with currents
Can younger children use the tails for dress-up? +

Absolutely! Our tails are perfect for dress-up, cosplay, photoshoots and imaginative play for all ages — no water required! We have sizes from age 3 upwards. The monofin gives the tail its beautiful shape, so we'd recommend adding one even for dress-up use.

📸 Create magical photo moments at home with a simple backdrop of blue sheets and scattered shells — no pool needed!

🌈 About Our Mermaid Tails

What's included with a mermaid tail set? +

All of our mermaid tails come as a complete set including a matching bikini top and bikini bottoms — everything you need for a magical mermaid look! The monofin is available to add separately, and we highly recommend it for both swimming and to give the tail its beautiful shape out of the water too.

What material are your mermaid tails made from? +

Our tails are made from 89% polyester and 11% spandex — a slightly thicker fabric than a standard swimsuit, which gives them a beautiful drape and structure while remaining comfortable, stretchy and fast drying. They're designed to withstand regular pool use and keep their shape and colour swim after swim.

Are the tails shiny or sparkly? +

Our tails feature vibrant printed designs on soft, premium matte fabric — not scratchy sequins or peeling shimmer. We chose this material because it's far more comfortable for active swimmers, more durable and much better for real swimming. The colours are vivid and long-lasting without any of the discomfort of sequined alternatives.

Do you sell mermaid tails for older children and teenagers? +

Yes! We have styles available in larger sizes suitable for ages up to 16 and beyond, including Small (approximately 160cm) and Medium (approximately 170cm+). These are perfect for older children, teenagers, and adults too. As always, we recommend measuring height in cm and choosing the closest size.

How much do mermaid tails cost? +

Our mermaid tail sets range from £15 to £25 — making magical moments affordable for every family! Free UK delivery is available on all orders over £45.

Still have a question? 🧜‍♀️

We'd love to help! Drop us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Contact Us