Buying children’s clothes and shoes online: how to choose practical options and avoid costly mistakes

Ordering children’s clothes and shoes online is convenient, but a great photo doesn’t tell the whole story. The wrong size, unclear material details or shoes that aren’t suited to everyday use can all leave your purchase sitting unworn in the wardrobe.

Look out for these common pitfalls:

• Using age as your only guide: children don’t all grow at the same rate. A size such as 62, 98 or 116 is more useful than simply “for six months” or “from three years”.
• Mistaking a material claim for a guarantee: cotton can feel comfortable, but the exact composition, stretch and washing instructions all affect how a garment wears.
• Choosing shoes on looks alone: for children’s sandals, baby sandals and Crocs clogs, length, fastening, heel strap and toe room are just as important as colour or print.

Which details should you check before ordering?

1. Size and fit

Always check the size, age guidance and available size chart. Product information can vary between brands. For example, a Chicco baby sleepsuit in size 062 is intended for a different stage of growth from girls’ clothing in size 116.

For babies, it’s useful to look for:

• enough room around the body;
• an opening that’s easy to undo when changing your baby;
• stretchy fabric without overly tight cuffs;
• the difference between sizes 056, 062 and 068.

The same principle applies to older children. According to the product information, a Chicco T-shirt and shorts set in size 116 is linked to an age guide of six years. This is a guide, not a substitute for checking your child’s measurements.

2. Material and care

If you’re looking for cotton children’s clothing, it’s worth checking the cotton percentage. Several Chicco items in this selection are made from 95% cotton and 5% elastane. This gives the fabric some stretch and makes the composition easy to check. Other sets list 100% cotton for the T-shirt and shorts.

A Chicco short-sleeved pyjama set in size 098 also lists 95% cotton and 5% elastane. Follow the care instructions on the label for all clothing. The name of a material doesn’t automatically tell you how often a garment can be washed, whether it will shrink or how well it will retain its colour.

Sandals have a different composition. The dark blue Chicco Conner sandals are listed as 80% polyurethane-coated material and 20% polyester. Also check whether the material is suitable for how you plan to use the sandals, and follow the care instructions on the label.

3. Fastening, sole and everyday use

Shoes that toddlers and young children can put on and take off themselves are practical, but you should still check the fit. For sandals, look for:

• an adjustable fastening;
• a heel strap or another way to keep the shoe in place;
• enough room for the toes;
• a sole suited to indoor or outdoor use.

For the Crocs Classic Clog kids’ shoes, the product information lists features including ventilation holes, a pivoting heel strap and a lightweight Croslite construction. The listed EU sizes range from 17-18 to 38-39, with corresponding lengths in centimetres. Measure your child’s foot and compare it with the chart; don’t choose based on age alone.

According to the product information, the Crocs clogs are easy to clean: wipe them with a damp cloth and leave them to air dry. Avoid direct heat and prolonged exposure to sunlight, as these can cause warping or discolouration, according to the product description.

Our recommendations for different shoppers

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time shoppers

Chicco 09005597000000 GIRLS WHITE 062

Why it suits this shopper: This white Chicco baby sleepsuit in size 062 is a straightforward basic for everyday wear. Its composition of 95% cotton and 5% elastane is clearly listed.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The size and fabric composition are clearly specified. Be sure to check your baby’s measurements and follow the washing instructions on the label.

Key benefits and features

Short sleeves, size 062 and a composition of 95% cotton and 5% elastane.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

Chicco 09075764000000 GIRLS DARK BLUE 116

Why it suits this shopper: This dark blue T-shirt and shorts set provides a complete outfit for girls in the listed size 116. The fabric is made from 95% cotton and 5% elastane.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The set lists the size, colour, intended wearer and material separately. That means you don’t have to rely on a general age recommendation.

Key benefits and features

Two-piece set, dark blue colour, size 116 and a cotton blend with elastane.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent use

CROCS Kids' Classic Clog Black

Why it suits this shopper: According to the product information, this black Classic Clog is a good option for children looking for an easy-to-clean style for indoor and outdoor use.

How this product helps you avoid the pitfall

The size chart gives foot lengths in centimetres. This helps you avoid ordering based on age or shoe size alone.

Key benefits and features

Croslite construction, pivoting heel strap, ventilation holes and easy care with a damp cloth.

Frequently asked questions about buying children’s clothes and shoes online

How do I find the right size of children’s clothing?

Measure your child’s height and compare it with the brand’s size chart. Also check chest, waist and hip measurements if they’re available. For baby clothes, sizes such as 056, 062 and 068 are more useful than a general age guide.

How long do children’s shoes last?

It depends on the fit, material, how often they’re worn and how quickly your child is growing. Check regularly that there’s still enough room for their toes and that the fastenings and soles aren’t visibly worn. Shoes can look perfectly smart and still be too small.

Are Crocs clogs suitable for everyday wear?

The Classic Clog product information lists a lightweight construction, ventilation holes, a heel strap and easy care. Whether this style is suitable for everyday wear depends on the activity, the surface and how well it fits your child. Always check the size in centimetres and the usage advice.