Joybuy Insights

Buying baby and children's clothing: how to choose comfortable, practical and well-fitting outfits

Buying baby and children's clothing may seem simple, but small details can determine whether an outfit works well in everyday use. A bodysuit that is difficult to pull over the head, a size that is already too small after a few washes or a set with unclear material composition can quickly turn into a disappointing purchase.

So don't focus only on colour, brand or an attractive offer. Pay particular attention to sizing, material, fastenings, care and age guidance. This applies to a baby bodysuit and baby T-shirt, as well as girls' clothing, unisex baby clothing, a girls' skirt or a pinafore skirt.

Three common pitfalls when buying baby and children's clothing

1. Buying based on age alone

Age recommendations are useful, but children do not all grow at the same rate. A label such as “0-3 months” tells you less than the actual clothing size. So check the length in centimetres and compare it with the product's size chart.

For newborns, baby clothing size 56 and baby clothing size 62 are among the most commonly purchased sizes. For older babies, sizes 68 and 86 are also relevant. For toddlers and young children, sizes 92 and 122 are common. Avoid automatically buying several items in the same size when you do not yet have a good idea of your child's growth rate.

2. Confusing a soft material with a suitable construction

Cotton often feels pleasant against the skin, but the material alone does not tell you how a garment will fit or how easy it will be to care for. A composition of 95% cotton and 5% elastane, for example, can provide some stretch. A product made from 100% cotton has a different structure and fit. A garment containing polyester may have different properties in terms of shape retention and care.

Always read the full label. Also check the seams, leg openings, neckline and fastenings. On a short-sleeved bodysuit, poppers at the bottom are practical when changing your baby. A baby T-shirt is particularly useful when the neckline provides enough room.

3. Giving more weight to marketing claims than verifiable information

Terms such as “extra soft”, “natural” or “suitable for sensitive skin” are difficult to assess without further explanation. Instead, look at specific details: material percentage, size, age range, product type and washing instructions.

The same applies to baby care products. According to the product information from Johnson’s, the baby bath product contains 300 ml and is free from colourants, parabens, SLS and SLES. Always check the latest ingredients list and warnings on the packaging before use. Do not treat a brand's claim about mildness or suitability as a universal guarantee.

What should you look for when buying baby and children's clothing?

Size and freedom of movement

A good fit follows the body without feeling tight. For babies, some room to move is important for lying down, turning and crawling. However, clothing that is too loose can catch on things or make changing your baby more difficult.

Use this approach:

  • Measure your child's height, preferably without shoes.
  • Check the product page for size and age information.
  • Make sure the size in centimetres corresponds to the Dutch size chart.
  • Allow for layers in autumn and winter.
  • For everyday use, you could buy one size ahead, but not several sizes at once.

Material and care

Cotton baby clothing is popular because the material is familiar and widely available. However, garments vary in composition. For example, the available Chicco collection includes bodysuits and shirts made from 95% cotton and 5% elastane, alongside a sleeveless bodysuit made from 100% cotton. According to the product specifications, the T-shirt and shorts sets for unisex use consist of 60% cotton and 40% polyester.

Always follow the washing and care instructions on the label. When comparing products, consider:

  • the likelihood of shrinkage and recommended washing temperature;
  • fastenings that are easy to open and close;
  • elastic edges that do not dig in;
  • prints, embroidery and appliqués that are securely attached;
  • how many garments you actually need.

Type of garment

A baby bodysuit makes a practical base layer. A short-sleeved bodysuit is suitable for warmer days or underneath a shirt. A baby clothing set, such as a T-shirt and shorts set, is useful when you want a matching outfit straight away. For girls, a girls' skirt and pinafore skirt are options for a more dressed-up outfit, but check that the garment allows enough freedom of movement.

For older children, girls' camisoles and a 2-pack of T-shirts can be practical. In that case, check that the size is suitable for the child's height and not just for the age shown on the label.

Product choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Chicco girls' baby bodysuit, white, size 56

Chicco 09005597000000 GIRLS WHITE 056

Why it suits this profile: A straightforward basic bodysuit for anyone looking specifically for one item in baby clothing size 56. The white colour is easy to combine with other clothing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies size 056, an age range of 0-3 months and a composition of 95% cotton and 5% elastane. This lets you make a more informed comparison than by age alone.

Key benefit & advantages

Short sleeves, white colour, size 056 and a stretchy cotton blend. Follow the washing label for care instructions.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Chicco short-sleeved bodysuit, white, size 68

Chicco 09005597000000 GIRLS WHITE 068

Why it suits this profile: For anyone who wants to compare material, size and everyday practicality. This Chicco short-sleeved bodysuit is listed in size 068 for 6-9 months.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition is clearly stated: 95% cotton and 5% elastane. Size 068 is shown separately from the age recommendation, allowing you to check both details.

Key benefit & advantages

Chicco model, short sleeves, white design and a cotton-elastane blend. Suitable for comparing as a base layer with other baby clothing.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
Chicco unisex baby clothing set, size 62

Chicco 09075774000000 UNISEX LIGHT YELLOW 062

Why it suits this profile: A unisex baby clothing set for anyone looking for a complete, easy-to-coordinate outfit. The set consists of a T-shirt and shorts in light yellow.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing clearly states that there are two garments, size 062, an age range of 0-6 months and a composition of 60% cotton and 40% polyester. This makes the price and contents easier to compare.

Key benefit & advantages

Two pieces in one purchase, unisex design, light yellow colour and size 062. Check the washing label for everyday care.

Also worth considering for gift buyers

For a baby shower, clothing can be complemented with practical baby care products or toys. A Disney cuddly toy, for example, can make a lovely decorative gift, but pay attention to the age recommendation: according to the product information, the 25 cm Minnie Mouse Chibi cuddly toy is intended for children aged 3 and over. Check the label and supervise children if small parts or loose attachments are present.

A baby bath, bath-care product or a set containing shampoo and body wash can be useful, but cosmetics require extra attention to ingredients, shelf life and directions for use. Only use products according to the packaging and stop using them if irritation occurs.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about baby and children's clothing

How much baby clothing do you need?

It depends on how often you do laundry and how often your child gets their clothes dirty. For a newborn baby, a small supply of bodysuits, shirts, trousers and socks is practical. Do not buy everything in the same size. A combination of sizes 56, 62 and possibly 68 gives you more flexibility as your child grows quickly.

Is cotton always the right choice for baby clothing?

Cotton is a widely used material, but it is not automatically suitable for every situation. Check the full composition, the thickness of the fabric and the washing label. A cotton-elastane blend may offer more stretch, while a fabric containing polyester may feel and wash differently. Fit and construction are at least as important as the fibre itself.

Which size baby clothing should you buy as a gift?

If possible, ask the parents which size they need. If that is not possible, do not choose a size that will be needed immediately after birth if you do not know when the gift will be given. Always check that the shop's size corresponds to the child's age and height. A unisex baby clothing set in a neutral colour can be practical when the baby's sex or the parents' preferences are unknown.