Baby clothing size guide: which size for which age?

Size 50, 56, 62 – what does that actually mean, and how much should you buy? Baby sizes are based on body length in centimetres, not directly on age. That makes choosing a little easier, because you can go by your baby's approximate length. Here is the rough guide.

Sizes and approximate age

• 50: newborns, approx. 0 to 1 month
• 56: approx. 1 to 2 months
• 62: approx. 2 to 3 months
• 68: approx. 3 to 6 months
• 74: approx. 6 to 9 months
• 80: approx. 9 to 12 months
• 86: approx. 12 to 18 months
• 92: approx. 18 to 24 months

Important: these are guide values. Babies vary in length and weight, and sizes differ slightly from brand to brand. If in doubt, measure your baby's body length and compare it with the size information of the respective brand.

The most common mistake: too much in size 50

Many expectant parents buy a whole pile in newborn size in advance. But babies grow rapidly at the very beginning – size 50 often fits for only a few weeks, and some newborns fit straight into 56. So buy only a little in the smallest size and rather a bit more in 56 and 62. This applies especially to bodysuits – how many you really need is covered in our guide How many bodysuits does a newborn need?

Tip: better to buy with room to grow

Clothing that is slightly bigger can often still be worn at the start (roll up the sleeves) and fits for longer. Go for timeless, easy-to-combine pieces made from high-quality materials – which fabrics prove themselves is shown in our comparison Merino wool or cotton – pieces you enjoy dressing your child in across several sizes and that can still accompany a second child.

Frequently asked questions

Which size should I pack for the hospital?

Ideally one or two pieces each in 50 and 56. That way you are prepared whether your baby arrives petite or sturdy. What else belongs in the bag is covered in our newborn essentials checklist.

How do I measure my baby correctly?

Lay your baby down flat and measure from the crown of the head to the sole of the foot. The value in centimetres corresponds directly to the clothing size – a 58 cm baby therefore wears size 62 (the next size up).

What do double sizes like 50/56 mean?

Some brands combine two sizes. These pieces are cut slightly wider and fit for longer – practical especially in the first months with their rapid growth spurts.

In our newborn collection you will find clothing for the first months, and in the Little Wardrobe timeless pieces for children from 0 to 6 years – such as the autumn highlights by leevje. Check the size information for each brand, as it can vary slightly.