How to Choose Baby Clothing Size as a Gift

If you are buying baby clothes as a gift, use the child’s age only as a starting point. The safest method is to check the product-specific measurements, think about how old the baby will be when the gift is worn, and compare the chart with clothing that currently fits.

Last updated October 28, 2026 · BloomKnit

A simple way to choose a baby clothing size as a gift

1. Find the baby’s current age or height if you can. Height is especially useful because age labels are only approximate.
2. Think about when the outfit will actually be worn. A gift bought today for a birthday or family event several weeks away may need the next size.
3. Use the size chart on that specific product. Do not assume every BloomKnit item follows exactly the same measurements.
4. Compare with a well-fitting garment. If possible, compare the listed measurements with an outfit the child already wears comfortably.
5. If you still cannot choose confidently, consider a non-sized gift. A personalized baby blanket or another size-flexible keepsake removes the clothing-size guesswork.

Common BloomKnit size labels

Many BloomKnit baby styles use labels such as 66 cm, 73 cm, 80 cm, 90 cm and 100 cm, which are often paired with age ranges such as 0–6 months, 6–12 months, 12–18 months, 18–24 months and 2–3 years. Other products use different size systems, including 59 cm, 74 cm, 86 cm, 92 cm or 98 cm. Always treat the product page as the source of truth for the item you are buying.

Should you size up when buying baby clothes as a gift?

Not automatically. Sizing up can be useful when the baby is close to the top of a size range or when the gift will be worn later, but choosing a much larger size can mean the item sits unused for a long time. Use the listed measurements and the expected wear date rather than following a blanket “always size up” rule.

What size should you buy for a newborn gift?

If you know the baby’s expected or current measurements, compare them with the exact product chart. If you do not know, remember that families often receive several very small newborn outfits. A slightly later-use size can sometimes be more practical, but only if the measurements and season make sense for when the baby will reach that size.

Buying for a baby who will turn one soon

For a first birthday or another milestone a few weeks or months away, calculate the child’s age on the event date rather than on the day you place the order. Then compare that with the item’s measurements. Our First Birthday Baby Girl Outfits guide includes occasion-specific ideas.

Cardigans, rompers or dresses: which is easiest to size as a gift?

Cardigans can be forgiving because they are designed for layering, but sleeve and body length still matter. Rompers need enough room through the body, so product measurements are important. Dresses can sometimes allow more flexibility through the body, but shoulder, sleeve and overall length still affect fit. Browse our Baby & Toddler Cardigans if you want a layering gift.

What if you want a personalized baby gift?

For personalized clothing, confirm both the spelling and the size before ordering. If you are unsure about clothing size, a personalized blanket can be a simpler keepsake option because it is not tied to an age label. Browse Personalized Baby Knitwear & Gifts for current options.

Need to measure the child or a garment?

For chest, height, garment length and sleeve measurements, read our practical Journal guide: How to Measure a Baby or Toddler for Clothes Bought Online.

Frequently asked questions

Is age or height more useful for baby clothing size?

Height and product measurements are generally more useful than age alone. Age labels are convenient, but babies and toddlers grow at different rates.

What if the baby is between two sizes?

Compare the product measurements with clothing that currently fits. If both sizes could work, consider when the gift will be worn and whether the item is intended for layering.

Should I buy newborn size for a baby shower?

Only if the product measurements and timing make sense. If the baby is not yet born or you do not know the expected size, a later-use size or a non-sized gift may be easier.

Can I buy a larger size for later?

Yes, but consider the season when the child is likely to fit it. A warm cardigan bought several sizes ahead may not be useful if the child reaches that size during hot weather.

What is the safest gift if I do not know the baby’s size?

A non-sized item such as a personalized blanket removes most sizing uncertainty. For more ideas, see our Baby Shower Gifts Under $50 guide.

Related gift guides

If you are choosing between a size-free keepsake and wearable personalization, compare our personalized baby blanket vs sweater guide. Shopping for a first birthday? See best gifts for a 1-year-old girl.

2027 gift planning

For next-year first-birthday planning, see our new First Birthday Gifts for Girls in 2027 guide. It separates sized clothing gifts from keepsakes, activity gifts and other options when measurements are unknown.