When thinking of baby clothing, onesies inevitably come to mind. These versatile garments dominate a baby’s wardrobe throughout their first year for good reason: they’re incredibly convenient as complete outfits and designed for easy diaper changes. In summer, babies often wear short sleeve bodysuits, while in winter, rompers or footies are more common. As your baby grows, you’ll notice that most brands only offer onesies up to 18-24 months. This naturally raises the question: when do babies stop wearing onesies or bodysuits? Typically, the onesie phase ends between 12-24 months. Here’s why:
They’ve Started Walking
Once your baby starts walking, several changes occur. They become preoccupied with this new milestone and are less inclined to stay still for diaper changes or outfit changes. While you might manage to slip a short sleeve bodysuit over their head as they stand and wriggle, getting them into a romper or footie becomes nearly impossible. Dressing an upright toddler in a shirt and pants is easier, and it also helps teach them how to dress themselves. Another reason to stop using onesies is that footed pajamas can be a slipping hazard. Although many footies for sizes 6-12 months and up come with grips, they might be best reserved for sleep once your child starts cruising or walking.
They’re in Daycare
While it’s not mandatory to stop using onesies when your child is in daycare, two-piece outfits can make life easier for daycare providers. It’s simpler to check for dirty diapers by pulling back a waistband rather than doing a sniff test. As your child approaches toddlerhood, they might even start hiding when they need to poop, making it harder to detect a dirty diaper.
They’re Potty Training
Potty training is a significant reason to switch from onesies to other clothing. During the early chaotic days of toilet training, quick and easy clothing removal is essential. Pulling down pants is much faster than undoing snaps and maneuvering fabric. If an accident occurs, it’s easier to change soiled pants than a bodysuit, which can be messy. As your toddler gains independence, you’ll want them to practice pulling down their pants and getting on the potty by themselves, especially in preparation for preschool.
You Want More Style Options
Finding onesies in sizes beyond 24 months is challenging, and your child’s style evolves as they grow. While bodysuits and onesies are practical for the first year, once your child reaches toddlerhood, you might prefer more varied outfits like jeans, dresses, and overalls. The transition away from onesies often reflects a shift towards “big kid” styles.
Ultimately, the decision to stop using onesies depends on personal preference. Some parents switch after their baby’s first birthday, while others wait until closer to the second birthday for reasons of comfort, convenience, or habit. There are no strict rules for moving on from onesies; make the transition when it feels right for you and your child.
