Start with the baby’s current fit
Find a bodysuit or shirt that fits comfortably now. Measure it flat from shoulder to hem and across the chest, then compare those numbers with the listing’s garment measurements. This is usually more dependable than relying on age alone.
| Label | Typical use | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Newborn / 0–3M | First outfits and announcement photos | Weight range, neck opening and whether the cut runs small |
| 3–6M | Daily bodysuits and early gifting | Torso length, snap placement and shrinkage notes |
| 6–12M | Sitting, crawling and layering | Room through the body and sleeve length |
| 12–24M | Walking, play and longer wear | Whether the item is an infant bodysuit or toddler tee |
| 2T+ | Toddler shirts | Chest width, shirt length and fabric stretch |
Bodysuit versus baby tee
A bodysuit stays tucked and works well for younger babies, but the torso length must be right. A separate baby tee is easier to layer and may fit longer, though it can ride up. Toddler tees usually have a more familiar shirt cut and can be easier to buy as a gift.
Buying ahead
Buying one size larger can be sensible for a baby shower gift, but avoid jumping so far ahead that the garment’s season no longer makes sense. A heavy long-sleeve item in a size the baby reaches during summer may get little use.
Fabric and washing
Check whether the item is preshrunk. Cotton can shrink, while blends may keep their shape differently. Follow the seller’s care instructions; washing inside out and using moderate heat can help protect printed artwork.