What This Guide Is All About
Shopping for baby clothes seems simple until you’re in the store holding two onesies labeled the same size that look like they belong to completely different babies. We’ve been there. That’s why this guide is for parents, grandparents, and anyone who wants the little one in their life to be snug, comfy, and adorable without the “will it fit?” guesswork.
From the softest newborn baby clothes to breathable outfits for busy crawlers, you’ll find tips, charts, and real-life advice so you can pick sizes with confidence and keep your baby happy in every season.
How Baby Clothes Sizes Actually Work
Why Age Isn’t the Only Factor
Clothing tags might say “3 months” or “12–18 months,” but babies don’t always grow according to those neat labels. Two babies born on the same day can be completely different sizes by the time they’re six months old. That’s why weight and height matter as much as age.
Some parents keep a little measuring tape in the nursery for quick check-ins before ordering new clothes online. It’s especially useful for pieces like infant dresses or fitted pajamas, where a few centimeters can mean the difference between comfy and too tight.
Brand Differences That Matter
Every clothing brand uses its own sizing templates. One brand’s “6–9 months” could be roomier than another’s “9–12 months.” At Little Hometown, we design with a “true-to-size” fit based on real measurements from real families, so when you buy our New York City Central Park Baby Short Sleeve Onesie, you know it’ll actually match the chart.
Baby Clothes Size Charts by Age Group
Below is a general baby size chart for clothes. Always cross-check with the specific brand’s chart before buying.
|
Age Range |
Weight (lbs) |
Height (inches) |
|
Newborn |
5–8 |
17–21 |
|
0–3 Months |
8–12 |
21–24 |
|
3–6 Months |
12–16 |
24–26 |
|
6–9 Months |
16–20 |
26–28 |
|
9–12 Months |
20–24 |
28–30 |
|
12–18 Months |
24–28 |
30–32 |
|
18–24 Months |
28–30 |
32–34 |
Tip: Babies grow fast in the first year. Buy a few pieces in the next size up so you’re ready when they have a sudden growth spurt.
Measuring Your Baby at Home
You don’t need fancy tools.
- Length: Lay your baby down and gently stretch their legs before measuring from head to heel.
- Chest: Wrap the tape under their arms and across the fullest part of the chest.
- Weight: A home scale works, but weigh yourself holding the baby, then without, and subtract the difference if you don’t have a baby scale.
This simple routine saves you from the frustration of clothes arriving and being too small before they’re even worn.
Baby Blankets & Wardrobe Essentials
A cozy baby blanket is as important as a perfect-fitting romper. In the newborn stage, breathable fabrics keep your baby comfortable during swaddles, naps, and stroller rides.
Our Florida Baby Muslin Swaddle Blanket & Burp Cloth/Bib Gift Set is a parent favorite. It’s soft enough for delicate skin, big enough for versatile use, and transitions beautifully from newborn swaddle to toddler cuddle blanket.
Suggested Essentials by Stage
Newborn – 3 Months
- 6–8 bodysuits.
- 4–6 footed pajamas.
- 3–4 swaddles or lightweight blankets.
6–12 Months
- Stretchy pants and tops for crawling.
- Soft jackets for outdoor time.
- Breathable sleep sacks for safe sleep.
Dressing for Seasons & Special Moments
Winter: Layer with breathable cotton under wool or fleece. Avoid anything too bulky under car seat straps.
Summer: Go for loose-fitting, lightweight fabrics. Infant dresses and short rompers allow airflow and keep skin happy.
For special events, size up if the outfit is more structured. Comfort is the key for happy family photos. Our Blue Crab Pajamas make adorable holiday morning wear without restricting movement.
Shopping Online Without Size Regret
When buying baby clothes online:
- Always check the brand’s size chart before adding to cart.
- Read reviews for notes on fit. Other parents’ comments are gold.
- Favor shops with flexible return policies (like ours at Little Hometown).
What Clothing Labels Really Mean (70, 80, 90)
If you’ve seen numbers like 70, 80, or 90 on tags and felt confused, here’s the quick breakdown:
- 70 = Fits height ~ 27 inches (about 6–12 months)
- 80 = Fits height ~ 31 inches (about 12–18 months)
- 90 = Fits height ~ 35 inches (about 18–24 months)
This system is more common in Asian and European brands.
Our Little Hometown Promise
Choosing the right baby clothes isn’t just about looking cute. It’s about comfort, safety, and letting your baby move freely as they grow. At Little Hometown, every snap, seam, and stitch is designed with love and intention, so you can dress your little one with confidence.
If you’re ready to find pieces that feel as good as they look, take a peek at our Newborn & Infant Collection and give your baby the comfort they deserve.
Key Takeaways
- Baby clothes sizes are best chosen using both weight and height, not just age.
- Always check the brand’s size chart. Measurements vary widely.
- Keep a measuring tape handy to avoid wrong-size online orders.
- Baby blankets are wardrobe essentials, not just accessories.
- Size up for structured or special-occasion outfits for comfort.
FAQs
1. How often should I buy new baby clothes?
In the first year, babies outgrow sizes every 2–3 months on average. During growth spurts, you might need to swap out essentials even sooner. Keep a few next-size-up pieces on standby so you’re not caught off guard.
2. Are bigger sizes better for longer wear?
Not always. Clothes that are too loose can bunch up, making your baby uncomfortable or posing safety hazards. It’s better to size correctly now and buy ahead for the next stage, especially for everyday wear.
3. Do newborn sizes fit all babies at birth?
No—some babies skip newborn sizes entirely if they’re over 8 lbs or longer than 21 inches. In that case, starting with 0–3 months clothing is more practical. Always pack a mix for the hospital.
4. How many baby blankets should I keep?
At least 3–4 breathable baby blankets are ideal: one for swaddling, one for stroller outings, one for sleep, and a spare for laundry days. Multi-use muslin swaddles offer flexibility and value.
5. What’s the best fabric for baby clothes?
Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo blends are gentle on skin and regulate temperature well. Avoid synthetics for everyday wear, as they can trap heat and cause irritation.