Kids Pyjamas: The Complete Buying Guide for Parents

Buying pyjamas for children involves a few more considerations than buying for adults. Safety standards, fabric choices, sizing, and durability all matter more when it comes to little ones who grow fast, play hard, and wash their pyjamas frequently.

Safety First: What to Look For

In the EU, children's sleepwear must comply with specific safety regulations. Always check the label for the CE mark and look for the following features:

• Tight-fitting pyjamas are safer for young children — they are less likely to catch fire
• Look for the EU safety label (CE mark) on all children's sleepwear
• Avoid drawstrings around the neck for children under 7 — these are a strangulation hazard
• Check that buttons and decorations are firmly attached and cannot be pulled off
• For babies under 12 months, avoid loose-fitting sleepwear near the face
• Opt for low-flammability fabrics or snug-fitting styles

Best Fabrics for Children's Pyjamas

Cotton (Best for Most Children)

100% cotton is the gold standard for children's pyjamas. It is breathable, soft, easy to wash at high temperatures when needed, and kind to sensitive skin. Most paediatric dermatologists recommend cotton nightwear, particularly for children with eczema or skin allergies. Look for GOTS-certified organic cotton for the most sensitive skin.

Avoid Synthetic Fabrics

Polyester and nylon trap heat and moisture, which can cause discomfort and skin irritation — especially in babies and toddlers who cannot regulate their temperature as well as adults. A simple test: if a garment is wrinkle-free without any effort, it likely contains synthetic fibres.

Fleece for Cold Nights

For very cold nights, soft fleece is acceptable. Look for anti-pill fleece that maintains its texture through many washes. Avoid using fleece onesies with babies under 12 months who are not yet mobile, as they cannot regulate their temperature effectively.

Sizing Guide by Height

Always buy by height, never by age. Children vary enormously in size, and a "4-year-old" pyjama may fit a tall 3-year-old or a petite 5-year-old perfectly.

• Size 56 = approx 0–1 month (up to 56cm)
• Size 62 = approx 2–3 months (up to 62cm)
• Size 74 = approx 6–9 months (up to 74cm)
• Size 80 = approx 9–12 months (up to 80cm)
• Size 86/92 = approx 1.5–2 years
• Size 98/104 = approx 3–4 years
• Size 110/116 = approx 5–6 years
• Size 122/128 = approx 7–8 years
• Size 134/140 = approx 9–10 years
• Size 146/152 = approx 11–12 years

One-Piece vs Two-Piece Sets

Footed Onesies (0–2 years)

For babies and very young toddlers, a footed onesie is the safest and warmest option. It keeps them covered without blankets (which are a SIDS risk for under-12-month-olds). Look for zipped onesies rather than button-through — infinitely easier for night changes in the dark.

Two-piece sets (3 years+)

From age 3, most children can manage a top-and-bottoms set. Two-piece sets are easier to wash, easier to mix and match, and grow with the child differently — some children have long torsos and short legs or vice versa.

How Many Pyjamas Does a Child Need?

Most parents find 3–4 sets is the practical sweet spot. This allows for a 2-day washing cycle without running out. Children spill at breakfast, sweat at night, and occasionally have accidents — having spare sets saves real stress.

Washing Children's Pyjamas

Most cotton children's pyjamas can be washed at 60°C, which is useful for illness or significant soiling. Day-to-day washing at 40°C is gentler and extends the life of the fabric. Avoid fabric softener, which can reduce the natural breathability of cotton over time. Always check the label — flannel and fleece should not be tumble dried.