Joybuy Insights

Choosing children's clothing and shoes without costly mistakes: practical buying tips for every age

Children's clothing and shoes need to withstand play, running, washing and rapidly growing feet. Even so, choosing the right option online is not always easy. An appealing photo tells you little about the fit, fastening or care requirements. With these practical checks, you can compare products more effectively and avoid buying something that ends up unused in the wardrobe after only a short time.

Common pitfalls when buying children's clothing and shoes

1. Relying solely on age or the size label

An age indication is a guide, not a guarantee. For example, a two-year-old may wear different clothing sizes depending on their height, build and the design of the garment. With shoes, two models in the same EU size may still fit differently.

Therefore, always check:

  • The product's length or size indication.
  • The stated fit, such as regular, small or large.
  • The fastening and adjustability.
  • Whether there is enough room for movement without the clothing or shoes slipping.

For example, the Skechers Flex Glow 90542L is stated to come up small, with one size larger recommended. For the Skechers Graceful - Get Connected 12615-BKRG, a smaller size is recommended because the model comes up large. This kind of information is more valuable than the size number alone.

2. Prioritising lights and eye-catching details over practicality

Children's shoes with lights attract attention, but also consider how they can be cleaned and fastened. Many models with built-in lights must not be put in the washing machine. For the Skechers Heart Lights-Rainbow Lux 302308L, cleaning with a soft, damp cloth is recommended. According to the product description, the lights work with every step.

The following points are also relevant for school and outdoor play:

  • Hook-and-loop fastenings or elastic laces for putting shoes on independently.
  • A sole that is flexible enough for everyday walking.
  • A tread suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
  • A shoe width that matches your child's feet.

3. Assuming that material names automatically mean comfort

Cotton can feel pleasant, but the composition and design also affect how a garment feels when worn. A percentage of elastane can provide freedom of movement, while viscose or polyester gives the fabric different properties. Also check the care label.

For children's and babies' clothing, seams, waistbands and fastenings are just as important as the fabric. In practice, a simple design that is easy to put on and take off can be more convenient than a garment with lots of decorative details.

The key specifications to check

Size and fit

Use the product size as a starting point and compare it with your child's current clothing or shoes. For babies' and toddlers' clothing, pay attention to body length, for example sizes 068, 074 or 092. The product information may also include an age indication, but this still depends on the child's build.

For shoes:

  • Measure both feet and use the larger foot as your reference.
  • Check whether the model comes up regular, small or large.
  • Look at the shoe width, such as D or G.
  • Where possible, try shoes on at the end of the day.
  • Check that the toes can move and that the heel does not slip out.

Material and care

Compare the material percentages rather than relying only on the general description. Here are some examples from the range:

  • Chicco boys' shorts: 90% cotton and 10% viscose.
  • Chicco girls' set: 95% cotton and 5% elastane.
  • Chicco girls' pyjamas: 95% cotton and 5% elastane.
  • Chicco girls' skirt with dungaree detail: 80% cotton, 16% polyester and 4% elastane.

Always follow the washing and care label. Shoes with lights, synthetic materials and models with a fixed insole often require manual cleaning. The brand's care instructions should always take priority.

Fastening and everyday use

For toddlers, hook-and-loop trainers are often practical because they can be put on and taken off quickly. Elastic laces can offer the same convenience, while ordinary laces often require help from an adult. For clothing, elasticated waistbands, poppers and wide neck openings are useful details for everyday wear.

Recommendations by user profile

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

Chicco 09005380000000 BOYS DARK BLUE 092

Why it suits this profile: These dark blue children's shorts are suitable for parents looking for a simple garment for everyday wear. Size 092 is associated with an age indication of 24 months.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition and size are clearly stated, so you do not have to rely on the product photo alone.

Key benefit & advantages

90% cotton, 10% viscose and a dark blue colour that can be paired with a variety of tops.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Chicco girls' set, dark blue, size 122

Chicco 09075764000000 GIRLS DARK BLUE 122

Why it suits this profile: A two-piece set is practical for school, holidays or warm days. According to the product information, size 122 is intended for children around 7 years old.

How this product avoids the pitfall

You get a T-shirt and shorts as one set, so you do not have to combine two separate fits.

Key benefit & advantages

95% cotton, 5% elastane and two matching garments.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Skechers Meteor-Lights children's trainers, size 33

Skechers Meteor-Lights - Krendox 401495L-BKBL 33

Why it suits this profile: This high-top model is designed for children who wear trainers at school, while playing and during outdoor activities. It fastens with hook-and-loop straps.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the fit, width G and care instructions. This makes it easier to compare with other children's shoes.

Key benefit & advantages

High-top trainer, rubber sole, regular fit and hook-and-loop fastening; clean with a damp cloth.

Suitable for: Independent children
Skechers Gametronix children's trainers, size 33

Skechers Gametronix 402260L BLMT 33

Why it suits this profile: These low-top children's trainers have a hook-and-loop fastening, making them practical for children who want to put their shoes on themselves.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fastening avoids the hassle of loose laces. The product page also specifies a regular fit and shoe width D.

Key benefit & advantages

Synthetic upper, rubber sole, regular fit and hook-and-loop fastening.

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 children's clothing and shoes

How do I choose the right size for my child?

Measure your child's height for clothing and both feet for shoes. Compare the measurements with the size chart for the specific product. Also check the fit information: some models come up small or large. Do not automatically order the same size as you would from another brand.

How long do children's shoes last?

How long they last depends on growth, the way your child walks, the material and how often the shoes are worn. Check the sole, seams, fastening and inside regularly. If the toes touch the front or the heel visibly slips out, a different size is needed. Shoes with lights should be cleaned according to the care instructions and must not be put in the washing machine if this is not recommended.

What is more practical for everyday use: laces or hook-and-loop fastenings?

For young children, hook-and-loop fastenings and elastic laces are usually easier to use independently. Ordinary laces provide a precise fit, but often require help or practice. Choose the fastening based on your child's age, motor skills and when the shoes will be worn.