As a parent, you want your kids’ clothes to last as long as possible. You choose quality brands and shop for eco-conscious clothing materials (like bamboo) to help extend the life of every garment. When your little one’s pieces last a while, how do you know when to move on from a favorite outfit?
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A typical time to recycle clothing is when your child grows out of it. Whether they wear the cutest baby boy rompers or the sweetest baby girl bodysuits, we’ll tell you when to switch to a bigger size. Take the guesswork out of your child’s ever-changing needs! You’ll feel more at peace as a parent, and your kids will feel more comfortable and confident in their clothes.
1. Look for Signs of Clothing Wear and Tear
📌Bunching or Rolling Fabric
When your child outgrows a shirt, the material may pull across their chest or shoulders. Seams may appear strained or frayed, indicating it’s time for a size up. Tight pants often roll up at the waist, while ill-fitting cuffs will bunch or roll up at the ankles.
📌 Stretched or Misshapen Clothing
Well-loved clothes may not be too tight but instead look stretched or misshapen. This is another sign that it may be time for another style. Look for over-stretched shirt collars and seams stretching at the bottom of shirts. The same wear and tear can occur on the bottom of pants, dresses or on the seams of undergarments.
2. Examine Tight or Uncomfortable Garments
Examine your child’s cuffs and waistbands when they put them on or take them off. Clothing that leaves marks on the skin is probably too tight. Sleeves and pants are worth regular review, especially as the seasons change. Here are a few garments and areas to double-check every few months:
📌 Cuffs and Waistbands
When your child struggles to adjust their sleeves or pants, get a larger size. Waistbands and pant leg cuffs should be easy to pull up and down. For comfort’s sake, size up in a similar style.
📌 Sleeves and Pants
Observe your child’s outfit from head to toe. Do their pants suddenly appear shorter than expected? In this case, they’re probably too tight for comfort. Pant legs will no longer reach the ankles. Check if long-sleeved shirts are creeping up your child’s arm or if the cuffs on short-sleeved shirts restrict movement.
📌 Shirt Length
Cropped shirts are super cute for summer, but sometimes tops get too small. If your child’s regular shirt exposes their stomach when their arms are down, they’re probably ready for a bigger size.
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3. Investigate Reasons for Restricted Play or General Discomfort
Take a closer look while your child runs or plays. When their sleeves are too tight, it’ll be tough for them to lift their arms comfortably. Their clothes may be too small if they struggle to bend or sit.
Our child’s discomfort may be the first sign they’ve outgrown their clothing. If your little one tells you their clothes are too itchy or stiff, try a different size or fabric. Investigate the fit of baby girl rompers or baby boy pajamas and then consider offering a different style. Soft, eczema-friendly materials can provide relief for some children.
4. Check In During Growth Spurts
Is your child growing taller? Review their measurements before you buy new school clothes or seasonal pieces. Time goes by fast, and your little one may grow quicker than their closet can keep up with! Some outfits will fit longer than others, especially looser styles.
📌 Age-Based Size Guides
Every child is unique, and kids grow at different rates. Your favorite clothing brand has girls’ and boys’ size guides based on age, height or weight. You can use these as a general guide.
Refer to size guides if your child may soon outgrow their favorite outfit. You’ll have a backup when they don’t fit into their prized jeans or sweater. Planning can help kids who wear specific clothing for youth sports or school activities. Keep a larger size in the drawer for wearing to clubs or practices.
5. Tips for Keeping Kids Comfortable in Their Clothes
Now that you know some signs your child has outgrown their clothes, you can make the switch faster and keep them confident and comfortable. There are also ways that parents can be proactive when it comes to their kids’ outfits.
📌 Swap Seasonal Items
As the seasons change, it’s an excellent opportunity to try on last season’s clothing. When their tops and bottoms are too tight, size up on new garments. Growth spurts can cause kids to outgrow their clothes in just a few months!
📌 Declutter Tight Clothes
If your child tells you an item is too tight, remove it from their drawers or closet. Then, donate clothing or give the garment to a younger sibling. The same goes for clothing that looks too small on your child. When you notice tight cuffs or a pinching waistband, recycle the item.
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📌 Schedule a Try-on Session
When in doubt, ask your little one to try on their clothing! A fun activity can inform you whether you need to size up. A good time to try on clothes is at the end of summer or the start of a new year when your child may need new outfits to keep them stylish and comfortable.
📌 Buy Slightly Bigger Clothing
If clothing is on sale or your child is in a growth spurt phase, you can always buy clothes slightly bigger. Some garments may take a few months to fit into, but this strategy can extend wear time. Your child may also find particular items more comfortable!
6. Staying on Top of Your Child’s Comfort and Clothing
Our little ones often grow faster than we can keep up with! By following this guide, you’ll identify when your child has outgrown their clothing. You’ll also find ways to keep clothing affordable and make practical swaps! Pay attention to your child’s feedback, and don’t be afraid to adjust sizes for different brands. With repetition, you’ll keep your child’s wardrobe cozy, functional and ready for every occasion!
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