Joybuy Insights

Buying children’s clothing: how to choose comfortable clothes for babies and children

Buying children’s clothing may seem straightforward, but choosing the wrong size, unclear fabric composition or an impractical design can quickly lead to extra costs. This is especially true when buying baby clothes and children’s clothing online, where product photos alone are not enough to make an informed choice.

So watch out for these three common pitfalls:

  • Relying on age alone: children do not all grow according to the same size chart. A garment labelled “3 months” may fit differently depending on the brand.
  • Confusing marketing claims with product information: terms such as “soft”, “durable” or “comfortable” do not tell you much without a specific fibre composition and care instructions.
  • Not matching the design to how it will be used: a children’s hoodie with a hood is useful outdoors, but may not always be practical under a coat. Children’s shorts can be ideal for warm days, but need a suitable top layer when the weather is changeable.

Which specifications matter when choosing children’s clothing?

1. Check the size in centimetres

For baby clothes, size 56 generally refers to a body length of around 56 centimetres. Size 62 is often associated with approximately six months, but age is only an indication. For older children, available sizes may range from 62 to 152, with the fit varying by brand and garment.

If you are unsure, measure:

  • body length;
  • chest circumference;
  • waist circumference;
  • hip circumference;
  • inside leg length for trousers.

A slightly looser fit can be practical for everyday clothing, but sleeves or trouser legs that are too long can feel uncomfortable. Always check the size chart on the product page.

2. Check the full fabric composition

Cotton children’s clothing feels comfortable to many families and is suitable for a wide range of uses. However, “cotton” is not a consistent quality category. Check the percentage of cotton and any added fibres.

Examples from the range:

  • The Chicco 2-piece T-shirt and shorts set in light yellow consists of 60% cotton and 40% polyester.
  • A Chicco 2-piece set in medium natural consists of 95% cotton and 5% elastane.
  • The Chicco shorts in medium blue are listed as 100% cotton.
  • According to the product information, the Tommy Hilfiger Essential Hoodie and Essential Sweatshirt are made from organic cotton.

Organic cotton children’s clothing may suit shoppers who specifically look for this material. However, check which certification or product information is actually shown on the page and the label. A brand claim is not a general guarantee of every characteristic of the garment.

3. Look at care requirements and practical details

Children often wear everyday clothes intensively. So check the care label before ordering. Some products specify a maximum washing temperature; according to the product information, the Chicco Tracksuit T-Shirt Long Sleeve in size 62 can be machine-washed at a maximum of 30 °C.

Also look for:

  • ribbed trims on a sweatshirt or hoodie;
  • whether it has a hood or kangaroo pocket;
  • an elasticated waist on children’s trousers or shorts;
  • enough freedom of movement in a long-sleeved children’s T-shirt;
  • fastenings that make dressing and undressing babies easier.

Treat “unisex” primarily as a description of the design and fit. It does not automatically mean that every model will fit every body shape in the same way.

Our recommendations for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Chicco 09075774000000 UNISEX LIGHT YELLOW 056

Chicco 09075774000000 UNISEX LIGHT YELLOW 056

Why it suits this profile: This set combines a T-shirt and shorts in one purchase and is listed in size 56, with an age indication of 0 to 3 months. That makes it a straightforward choice when putting together a baby’s first wardrobe.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size, age indication and fabric composition are clearly stated. This means you do not have to rely solely on the photo or a general age claim.

Key benefit & highlights

2-piece set, unisex design, light yellow colour and 60% cotton with 40% polyester.

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 model is aimed at children aged approximately 3–4 to 15–16 years, with sizes from 98 to 140 according to the stated chart. The crew neck and ribbed trims make it suitable for school, weekends and everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information mentions organic cotton, a gender-inclusive design and specific EU sizes. However, check the label for the exact care instructions.

Key benefit & highlights

Pure organic cotton according to the product description, a crew neck, and ribbed-knit collar, cuffs and hem.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive wear
CHICCO TRACKSUIT BOTTOM LEGGINGS 104 ORANGE PRINTED

CHICCO TRACKSUIT BOTTOM LEGGINGS 104 ORANGE PRINTED

Why it suits this profile: This orange Chicco legging in size 104 is intended for children around 4 years old according to the size chart. The trousers are a practical, eye-catching layer for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size is linked to body measurements, including chest, waist and hip circumference. This helps you choose based on measurements rather than age alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Size 104, orange print and a style described as tracksuit-bottom leggings.

Suitable for: Families who like to layer
Tommy Hilfiger Essential Hoodie Kids Gender Inclusive Twilight Navy 80

Tommy Hilfiger Essential Hoodie Kids Gender Inclusive Twilight Navy 80

Why it suits this profile: A hoodie is useful as an extra layer for the school run, walks or outdoor play. This gender-inclusive model is listed in sizes from 98 to 152.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies the material, size range and practical details. Check in advance that the hood will work with the coat and suit the intended use.

Key benefit & highlights

Organic cotton according to the product information, kangaroo pocket, hood and ribbed trims on the cuffs and hem.

Practical tips for buying children’s clothing online

Before placing your order, make a quick checklist:

  1. Measure your child again if their previous clothes are already feeling tight.
  2. Compare the size chart with your child’s measurements.
  3. Check the material percentages and see whether the product contains cotton, polyester, elastane or organic cotton.
  4. Consider how and when it will be used: baby clothes for everyday changes need different features from a children’s hoodie for outdoor play.
  5. Read the care label: washing, drying and ironing can affect the fit and lifespan.
  6. Check the returns policy and keep the product and size details until you are sure about the fit.

A long-sleeved children’s T-shirt is useful as a layer under a sweatshirt. Children’s trousers provide more coverage on cooler days, while children’s shorts are mainly suitable for warm weather. By choosing clothes according to how they will be used, you can avoid leaving an appealing design unworn in the wardrobe.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled 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 children’s clothing

What size baby clothes do I need for a newborn?

For newborns, shoppers often choose size 50 or size 56. The right size depends on the baby’s length and build. If possible, measure your baby’s length and compare it with the brand’s size chart.

How long do children’s clothes last?

The lifespan varies depending on the material, fit, washing programme and how intensively the garment is worn. Follow the care label, avoid unnecessarily high temperatures and check seams, trims and elastic regularly. For fast-growing children, the size may become unsuitable before the fabric shows signs of wear.

Is unisex children’s clothing suitable for every child?

Unisex children’s clothing usually refers to a neutral colour, print or cut. The fit still depends on the specific model and size chart. So look at the chest, waist and hip measurements rather than relying only on the “unisex” label.