How to Navigating toddler clothing sizes?
As baby grows into a toddler and beyond, you’ll notice the clothing sizes begin to change. This distinction happens just as your tot turns 2. The most common toddler clothing sizes you’ll see include:
- 12-18M
- 18-24M
- 2T
- 3T
- 4T
At 2 years old, the age range for the clothing shifts. Up through 24M, baby clothes sizes refer to the maximum age range for that size, but toddler clothes sizes refer to the minimum. Put another way, toddler sizes are meant to last the entire year until their next birthday, since kiddos this age aren’t experiencing growth spurts at the same pace as infants. “The 24 months size is designed for babies up to 24 months. On the other hand, 2T is created for toddlers between 2 and 3 years old,” Carter explains.
Another noticeable difference between 24M and 2T sizes? The fit and the extra room given for diapers, since many toddlers begin potty training around age 2. “2T clothing will be slimmer towards the bottom of the garment. Clothing labeled 24 months will have a wider bottom to make room for diapers,” Carter says. “Baby-specific garments are meant to accommodate a child that’s in a diaper and has more of a baby-specific shaped body.”
