Joybuy Insights

Buying children's clothes: how to choose comfortable clothing that really fits

Children's clothes need to withstand plenty of wear and tear. Trousers go to school, the playground and sometimes straight into the laundry basket. Yet parents and carers still regularly buy clothes that fit less well after a few washes, feel too warm or are difficult to coordinate with other items.

The biggest mistakes usually come from three common pitfalls:

  • Choosing solely by age: an age indication is not always enough. Children's height, chest measurement and waist size can vary considerably.
  • Confusing marketing language with product information: terms such as “sustainable”, “breathable” or “extra comfortable” mean little without a specific fibre composition and care instructions.
  • Putting attractive design before practical use: a light colour, delicate decoration or stiff waistband can make everyday wear more difficult.

When buying children's clothes, it's therefore best to look at size, material and intended use first. Brand, colour and style come afterwards.

What to look for when buying children's clothes

1. Check the size in centimetres

Sizes such as 92, 98 or 128 generally refer to body height in centimetres. The fit can vary between brands and garments. If possible, measure:

  • body height;
  • chest measurement;
  • waist;
  • inside leg measurement for trousers.

For baby clothes, the combination of size and age is particularly important. For example, a Chicco 2-piece set in size 56 is listed for approximately 0 to 3 months. For an older child, a Chicco long-sleeve top in size 110 may be suitable for around 5 years, depending on their body measurements.

A garment with a slightly looser fit can be practical for layering. However, buying too large also has drawbacks: sleeves can get in the way and trousers may slip down. Always use the size chart on the product page as your starting point.

2. Look at the full material composition

For cotton children's clothing, the percentage of cotton is important. A Chicco pair of shorts, for example, is made from 90% cotton and 10% viscose. This gives it different properties from a top made from 100% cotton or a set made from 95% cotton and 5% elastane.

Pay particular attention to the intended use:

  • Cotton: often a practical choice for T-shirts, long-sleeve tops and everyday clothing.
  • Organic cotton: some product pages mention certified organic cotton. Tommy Hilfiger lists this as a product feature for several sweatshirts and hoodies. Check the page to see exactly which certificate or designation is mentioned.
  • Elastane: a small percentage can provide additional stretch, for example in underwear or baby sets.
  • Viscose: can help create a soft, fluid fabric, but you should check the washing instructions.

Claims about comfort, sustainability or environmental friendliness come from the brand's or seller's product information. Do not therefore treat them as a general guarantee for every situation. The fibre composition and care label are verifiable information.

3. Match the garment to everyday use

A long-sleeve top for children is useful as a separate layer in spring and autumn or underneath a cardigan. A children's hoodie or children's sweatshirt makes more sense for school, leisure time and cooler days. In warm weather, a children's T-shirt, tank top or children's shorts are more practical.

Also check:

  • whether the neckline is easy to pull over the head;
  • whether cuffs and elastic feel too tight;
  • whether pockets and appliqués are securely attached;
  • whether the care requirements suit your household;
  • whether the colour works with clothes you already own.

For babies, easy dressing and undressing is often more important than eye-catching details. For school-age children, freedom of movement and easy washing generally matter more.

Product choices by user type

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Chicco 09005380000000 boys' dark blue shorts, size 092

Chicco 09005380000000 BOYS DARK BLUE 092

Why it suits this profile: These dark blue children's shorts are designed for everyday wear and work well with T-shirts and long-sleeve tops in various colours. Size 92 is listed for an age indication of 24 months.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states the colour, size and composition: 90% cotton and 10% viscose. However, check the current care label before buying.

Main benefit & advantages

Dark blue colour; 90% cotton; designed as shorts for everyday wear.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Tommy Hilfiger ESSENTIAL SWEATSHIRT Kids Gender Inclusive Twilight Navy 4

Tommy Hilfiger ESSENTIAL SWEATSHIRT Kids Gender Inclusive Twilight Navy 4

Why it suits this profile: This gender-inclusive children's sweatshirt is intended for school, weekends and layering. According to the product information, the fabric is made from organic cotton and the design has a round neckline with ribbed trims.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The navy colour and simple design make it easier to coordinate than clothing with lots of decorative details. The care instructions remain the most important guide.

Main benefit & advantages

Organic cotton according to the product description; round neckline; ribbed trims at the neckline, cuffs and hem.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Calvin Klein 2-pack boys' briefs 926, white/grey, size 45938

Calvin Klein 2-Pack Boys Briefs 926 White/Grey Size 45938

Why it suits this profile: For children who need fresh underwear every day, this 2-pack provides a practical spare option. The product description states that it has a medium-rise waist and is made from 95% cotton and 5% elastane.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size information and material blend are visible in advance. This helps you avoid relying solely on the brand or elasticated waistband.

Main benefit & advantages

Two pairs per pack; 95% cotton and 5% elastane; machine washable at 30 °C according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

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

Caring for children's clothes and extending their lifespan

Lifespan does not depend on the brand alone. Wash clothes according to the label, use the stated temperature and check whether the garment can go in the tumble dryer. The product information for various Tommy Hilfiger models, for example, states that they should be washed at 30 °C and sometimes not tumble-dried. This may vary between versions.

Practical habits can help:

  1. Wash dark and light colours separately.
  2. Turn clothes with prints or embroidery inside out.
  3. Check for stains before putting a garment in the tumble dryer.
  4. Do not automatically buy a much larger size to allow for growth.
  5. Compare the price per wear, particularly for basics such as underwear and T-shirts.

Frequently asked questions about children's clothes

What size children's clothing do I need?

Start with body height in centimetres, then compare chest, waist and hip measurements with the brand's size chart. Age is only an indication. If you are unsure between two sizes, consider the type of garment and how much freedom of movement you want.

Is organic children's clothing always more sustainable?

Not necessarily. “Organic cotton” describes the origin of the cotton fibre, but does not tell you everything about lifespan, the dyeing process, transport or care. So check the specific product information, any certification mentioned and the care label.

How often should you wash children's clothes?

Wash clothes when necessary. Underwear, T-shirts and clothing worn directly against the skin generally need washing more often than a hoodie worn over another layer. Always follow the manufacturer's care advice to preserve the fit and material as well as possible.