The Complete Guide to Baby and Toddler Sizing

One of the most unexpectedly confusing parts of parenting? Baby and toddler sizing. As if sleep deprivation wasn't enough, now you have to decipher sizing charts that seem more like a cryptic puzzle than an actual guide. And just when you think you've figured it out, your little one goes through a growth spurt, and that Playfully Strong Convertible Romper you just bought is already feeling snug. Sound familiar? You're not alone!

Buying baby and toddler clothes should be simple, but inconsistent sizing across brands makes it a frustrating guessing game. That's why we're here to decode the madness and help you future-proof your shopping. Spend less time returning ill-fitting clothes and more time soaking up the snuggles.

Unlike adult sizes, baby clothes are typically labeled by age ranges (e.g., 3-6 months, 6-9 months). But here’s the catch—babies don’t grow on a schedule! Your little one might fit into a 3-6 month size at 2 months or still be rocking it at 8 months. That’s why we always recommend looking at height and weight rather than just age when picking out sizes.

Here’s a general breakdown:

• Newborn (NB): Up to 8-12 lbs, 18-22 inches

• 0-3 months: 12-15 lbs, 21-25 inches

• 3-6 months: 15-18 lbs, 24-27 inches

• 6-12 months: 18-22 lbs, 26-30 inches

• 12-18 months: 22-26 lbs, 29-32 inches

• 18-24 months: 36-30 lbs, 33-36 inches

• 2T: 30-32 lbs, 33-36 inches

But here’s where things get tricky: not all brands size the same. European brands use centimeters (e.g., 62 cm for 3 months, 74 cm for 6-9 months), which can be more precise but still vary. That’s why we design Bam & Stitch pajamas with extra stretch and flexibility—so your baby gets the most wear out of them!

Ever bought a romper from one brand and a pajama set from another, both labeled 6-9 months, only to find one is too tight and the other is practically oversized? That’s because sizing differs by brand:

• European brands often have a more petite, slimmer fit.

• American brands tend to run true to size but may shrink in the wash.

• Boutique brands vary widely based on fabric and cut.

Our solution? The Playfully Strong and Orchid Gardens collections are made with soft, breathable fabric that stretches with your little one. The convertible rompers even have fold-over cuffs for extra growing room, so you can squeeze a few extra months of wear out of them!

Once your baby is on the move, you’ll graduate to toddler and kid sizes. Unlike baby sizes, toddler clothes use a “T” system (e.g., 2T, 3T, 4T), designed for little ones who are potty training and don’t need extra diaper room.

• 12-18 months: 22-26 lbs, 29-31 inches

• 18-24 months: 26-30 lbs, 31-33 inches

• 2T: 28-32 lbs, 33-35 inches

• 3T: 32-35 lbs, 35-38 inches

• 4T: 35-39 lbs, 38-41 inches

• 5/6: 39-48 lbs, 42-48 inches

• 7/8: 48-69 lbs, 48-54 inches

• 9/10: 69-87 lbs, 54-57 inches

• 12/14: 87-110 lbs, 58-61 inches

• 16: 110-120 lbs, 61-63 inches

The good news? Our Playfully Strong and Orchid Gardens Pajamas transition beautifully from baby to toddler sizes to kid sizes, so your little one can stay comfy through all their growth spurts.

Because kids grow at lightning speed, here are some tips to make shopping easier and avoid wasting money on clothes they'll barely wear:

• When in Doubt, Size Up: If you're torn between two sizes, go bigger. Babies grow fast, and a little extra room means a longer wear.
• Choose Adjustable Features: Our Convertible Rompers have fold-over cuffs, giving you more wear time before sizing up.
• Layer Smart: Instead of buying tons of season-specific fits, layer lightweight items for year-round use.
• Opt for Stretchy, High Quality Bamboo Viscose: Bamboo lasts 3x longer than your average cotton blend, wash better, and can even be handed down.
• Keep a Stash of Essentials: Stock up on basics in the next size up so you're not scrambling when your child outgrows everything overnight.