As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Home › Toddler basics and shoes

Toddler basics and shoes

The everyday pieces that do the heavy lifting, and a checklist answering the question every parent asks: how many clothes does a toddler really need?

Everyday basics and first shoes

The workhorse pieces: tees, leggings, socks and shoes that survive the playground and the washer.

Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them, Toddler Apparel may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We do not list prices because they change often; tap through to see the current price on Amazon.

HonestBaby

10-Pack Organic Cotton Short-Sleeve T-Shirts

Ten organic cotton tees in one order. A big win for families who do laundry every other day.

Check price on Amazon
Simple Joys by Carter's

Toddler Boys' 3-Pack Pocket Short-Sleeve Tees

Plain solid tees for layering under hoodies in fall and wearing alone in summer.

Check price on Amazon
Simple Joys by Carter's

Toddler Girls' 3-Pack Leggings

Three basic leggings that go with every top. Daycare-friendly and easy for potty training.

Check price on Amazon
Simple Joys by Carter's

Toddler 2-Pack Pull-On Fleece Pants

Pull-on waist toddlers can manage themselves. Cozy for playground days.

Check price on Amazon
Gerber

Toddler 8-Pack Wiggle-Proof No Show Socks

Eight pairs in one pack. Designed to stay on wiggly feet.

Check price on Amazon
Stride Rite

SR-Taye 2.0 Toddler Sneakers

A simple, flexible toddler sneaker from a brand known for first-walker shoes.

Check price on Amazon
Stride Rite

Stride Rite Made2Play Toddler Shoes (search)

Stride Rite markets the Made2Play line as machine washable. Browse current colors and sizes.

Check price on Amazon
Various brands

Toddler Rain Boots (search)

Rainy-season essential for puddle-loving toddlers. Pull-on handles make them easier to wear.

Check price on Amazon

A simple toddler wardrobe checklist

ItemSuggested countTip
Tops (tees, long sleeves)7 to 10Solid colors match every bottom
Bottoms (leggings, joggers)5 to 7Pull-on waists help potty training
Layers (fleece, hoodie)2 to 3Full zip is easier than pullover
Pajamas4 to 7Snug-fit cotton in the true size
Socks7 or moreBuy one brand so pairs never go missing
Shoes2One everyday sneaker, one weather boot

Counts are general starting points from common parenting advice, not rules. Adjust for your laundry schedule.

Quick answers

How many clothes does a toddler need?

For most families, seven to ten tops, five to seven bottoms, seven or more pairs of socks, two layers and two pairs of shoes cover a week between laundry days. Add more if your toddler is in daycare or potty training.

What should I look for in toddler shoes?

A flexible sole, a wide toe box, a secure closure like hook-and-loop, and about a thumb's width of room at the toe. Measure feet every couple of months because toddlers grow quickly.

Are multipack basics worth it?

Yes for everyday wear. Multipacks of tees, leggings and socks keep the cost per piece low, and plain colors mix and match with everything.

For when they grow into crayons: Marist Winters coloring books

Seasonal coloring books for kids ages 4 to 8, written by the founder of Toddler Apparel under the pen name Marist Winters. Great for big siblings, quiet time and holiday stockings.

These are my own books. I earn royalties if you buy them, plus an Amazon Associates commission through these links.