FAQs: How to Measure Baby Shoe Size
1. Gather Materials
You’ll need:
- A piece of paper (large enough for your baby’s foot)
- A pencil or pen
- A ruler or tape measure
- A soft measuring tape (optional)
- A pair of baby socks (optional, but helps for accuracy)
2. Prepare the Foot Measurement Area
- Lay the paper on a flat surface like a floor or table.
- Have your baby stand or sit comfortably. If they’re too young to stand, you can measure while they’re lying down, but it’s best to measure when they’re standing for the most accurate size.
3. Trace the Foot
- Place your baby’s foot flat on the paper.
- Gently trace around the foot with the pencil, making sure the pen stays upright and follows the foot’s natural shape. Try not to press down too hard.
- If your baby is still very young, you may need to gently hold their foot still while tracing, but if they’re old enough, you can ask them to help by standing on the paper.
4. Measure the Foot Length
- Use the ruler or tape measure to measure the distance from the heel (the back of the foot) to the longest toe.
- Mark this measurement in inches or centimeters.
5. Measure the Foot Width (Optional)
- If your baby has wide feet or you want extra accuracy, measure the width at the widest part of their foot (usually across the toes).
- Use the ruler to measure this width.
6. Compare Measurements to a Size Chart
Now that you have both the length and width of your baby’s foot, compare it to a baby shoe size chart. Most shoe brands provide their own size charts, but here’s a general guide based on foot length:
| Foot Length (inches) | Foot Length (cm) | US Baby Shoe Size |
|---|---|---|
| 3 ⅛" (8 cm) | 8 cm | 0-3 months |
| 3 ½" (8.9 cm) | 8.9 cm | 3-6 months |
| 3 ⅞" (9.8 cm) | 9.8 cm | 6-9 months |
| 4 ¼" (10.8 cm) | 10.8 cm | 9-12 months |
| 4 ½" (11.4 cm) | 11.4 cm | 12-18 months |
| 4 ¾" (12.1 cm) | 12.1 cm | 18-24 months |
7. Consider Growth Room
Baby feet grow quickly, so it’s recommended to leave about ½ inch (1.3 cm) of space in the toe area for growth. This helps ensure that shoes are comfortable and not too tight, preventing foot development issues.
8. Try Shoes on the Baby (If Possible)
If you have a pair of shoes you’re considering, it’s best to try them on to make sure the fit is correct. Look for:
- A snug but comfortable fit.
- No squeezing in the toes or at the sides.
- Enough room for natural foot movement.
- Ensure the shoe does not fall off too easily or feel too tight.
9. Check the Fit Regularly
Baby feet grow quickly, so measure your baby’s foot regularly (about every 3-4 months) to ensure their shoes still fit well.
Tips for Measuring Baby Shoes:
- Measure both feet: Babies often have one foot larger than the other, so always measure both feet and buy shoes based on the larger foot.
- Socks or bare feet: If your baby wears socks regularly, measure their feet while they’re wearing socks to get an accurate shoe size.
- Don’t go too tight: Avoid buying shoes that are too tight, as this can affect your baby’s comfort and foot development. Always leave some room for growth.
