Buying the Correct Size Baby Clothes

First, let me say that babies grow so fast during their first year that the baby clothes sizes will likely span from newborn probably up to 18 months within the first year for the average baby. In fact, most babies are not in 0 – 3 month sizes for very long so do not stock up on those. While the tiny sizes are adorable and hard to resist, they will not be useful for very long. In fact, many outfits sit in drawers never to be worn and end up in garage sales and mom-to-mom sales.

When I buy baby clothes, very rarely have I found clothing to be true to size. I generally buy a size up from what their age is. For example, if the baby is three months old, then I buy six month sizes or if the baby is 12 months old, then I buy the 18 month size.

If tags show height and weight guidelines, I consider those over the age of the child. They are generally more accurate.

You also have to be aware of the seasons while shopping ahead to ensure proper fit. For instance:

• If you are shopping for winter clothes in September for your three-month-old baby, your baby will be 6 – 9 months during the cold, winter months. Remember to buy a step up in size from what their age will be during those months, not the age they are when you are shopping. For winter items, remember to leave enough room for layering onesies underneath tops and bottoms. • When buying jackets and snowsuits, remember that there will likely be at least two layers underneath in the form of a onesie and an article of clothing such as shirt and pants. Remember to leave room for bulkier clothing underneath such as sweaters. • If you are shopping in March for summer outfits for your six-month-old child, your child will be 9-12 months during the hottest months. Purchase clothing one size up in age from what your child will be during the months you are shopping for.

Of course, size accommodations should be made if the baby is smaller than average or larger than average in growth. These recommendations are for the average size baby.

Buying baby clothes doesn’t have to be difficult. Unless you find clothing lines that are true to size, utilize the height and weight guidelines on tags. If the tags do not have height and weight guidelines, going a size step up in age generally works well.