When it comes to baby clothes, the sizing can sometimes be a bit confusing. Whether you’re shopping for your own little bundle of joy or shopping for a friend or relative’s baby, knowing the basics can help you avoid any potential frustration. Here are some tips to keep in mind when interpreting baby clothing sizes:

Look for a Specific Brand

It’s best to stick with a few brands that you trust to have consistent sizing. Different brands run differently, so doing your research and reading reviews will give you an idea of which ones fit well and which run large or small. My personal experience with Gap is that their pants seem to run big, but their shirts fit well.

Use Your Baby’s Measurements

Using a measuring tape to take your baby’s measurements can help you get a more accurate sense of their size. It’s important to remember that infant clothes are sized based on height and weight, so using your baby’s actual measurements will provide you with the most accurate results.

Consider the Season

While it may be tempting to stock up on summer clothes for a newborn, you’ll want to have some cold-weather gear on hand when they turn one. Similarly, you’ll want to have a few months worth of clothes in the appropriate size to cover your baby’s growth during those transitional periods.

Look for the Size on the Tag

While this is a convenient shortcut, it’s not always accurate. Many clothing brands mark their sizes based on age, so the label can give you an estimate of what size your baby should be at a certain time in their life. But your baby will grow at a different rate than other babies, so the label may be off by a bit.

If you’re shopping for a friend or family member, it’s a good idea to buy an extra size up to be safe. Babies grow like weeds, and they can outgrow clothes quickly. Many 6-month-olds, for example, can wear 9-12 month clothes, so it’s never a bad idea to have some bigger sizes on hand. You can always return any items that don’t work out, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Besides, if it turns out they do need the larger sizes, they’ll appreciate you going out of your way to find something that will fit them perfectly. And if you’re giving a gift, it never hurts to include a few bigger sizes, too! It shows you care. Just make sure you keep the tags on the tiny outfits for returns if needed!