Children's clothes – sizes and washing instructions
You may have bought clothes and other things for your baby before it was born. Or friends and relatives may have offered to buy some well-needed clothes. Remember not only to choose clothes in the smallest size, since your baby will grow out of them in a couple of weeks.
Here is a guide to baby clothing sizes. You will also find tips on the best baby hats and advice for washing those badly soiled pants.
Children's clothing sizes
Size 40 - preterm babies
Size 50 - newborn babies
Size 56 - 1 month or slightly larger newborn
Size 62 - 3 months
Size 68 - 6 months
Size 74 - 9 months
Size 80 - 1 year
Size 86 - 18 months
Size 92 - 2 years
Of course sizes vary slightly between children – children are often different sizes when they are born – so the table shows average sizes. The sizes correspond to the child's approximate height in centimetres.
Check the shrinkage indications for the clothes before buying them. If they are expected to shrink, buy a size larger.
Natural materials are best for babies
Choose clothes that are light and airy. Cotton and wool allow the skin to breathe. Fleece overalls may be warm and cosy, but avoid synthetic materials and overly tight garments against the skin.
Wash all new garments before your baby wears them, since the materials may contain traces of chemicals.
Here you will find useful tips to help you choose the best, most comfortable toxin-free children's clothes, as well as Libero's complete baby shopping list.
Washing children's cloths
Most children's clothes can be washed at 60 degrees Celsius, which is usually the minimum temperature for getting them clean. If the washing label specifies washing at 40 degrees Celsius, ask in the shop if the garment can be washed at warmer temperatures. Many garments can.
Most dirt disappears when you wash clothes at 60 degrees Celsius, including food, vomit and faeces. However, sometimes yellow stains might be left on light coloured clothes.
Use mild washing detergents and unperfumed fabric conditioners, ideally ones that are environmentally friendly and non-allergenic.
Woollen clothing - these days you can actually find soft, thin woollen garments that don't itch. - wash with care at a low temperature using a wool washing programme. Many garments can simply be wiped clean with a little water if they get food on them. Wool is partially stain-resistant. Woollen clothes retain heat better than most others, even if they get a little damp.
