Organizing baby clothes by size makes finding outfits and planning ahead much easier. The most common and effective way to keep tiny garments sorted is by using clear size distinctions in your storage areas.
Simple Steps for Sorting Baby Clothes
One of the best places to start when organizing baby clothes is in the closet. Given how little horizontal space baby clothes take up when hanging, maximizing vertical space and clear labeling is key.
Using Closet Dividers
First, start with closet divider labels. These are simply labels for each size — you'll have one divider labeled newborn, one labeled 0-3 months, one labeled 3-6 months, and so on. Of course, you've realized your baby's sweet little clothes don't take up that much space when they're hanging up, length-wise anyway. Placing these dividers on the closet rod separates clothes into distinct sections, making it easy to grab the right size or put away laundry.
Here are common baby clothing sizes you might use for dividers:
- Newborn (NB)
- 0-3 Months
- 3-6 Months
- 6-9 Months
- 9-12 Months
- 12-18 Months
- 18-24 Months
- 2T (Toddler sizes start here)
Organizing Drawers
For items like onesies, pajamas, socks, and pants that don't hang well, drawers are ideal. You can organize drawers by size as well, or use drawer dividers or small bins within the drawer to separate sizes or types of clothing within a size category.
- Folding: Rolling clothes or using the KonMari folding method can help save space and keep items visible.
- Drawer Dividers: Use adjustable dividers or small bins to create compartments for different sizes or types of clothing within a single drawer.
- Labeling: Label the outside of the drawer or the divider inserts with the size.
Utilizing Storage Bins
For clothes that are currently too large or out of season, storage bins are perfect.
- Labeling Bins: Use clear labels on the outside of bins indicating the size range (e.g., "6-12 Months - Next Size").
- Location: Store these bins in a closet, under the bed, or in a storage area, bringing them out as your baby grows into the next size.
- Condition Check: When moving clothes from bins into rotation, quickly check for stains or damage.
Practical Tips for Organizing
- Wash Before Storing: Wash clothes before putting them away, especially if storing long-term.
- Group by Type: Within each size section, you can further organize by clothing type (e.g., long sleeves together, short sleeves together).
- Keep Outgrown Clothes Separate: As your baby outgrows clothes, immediately remove them from the current rotation and place them in a designated bin or bag for donation, selling, or storage.
By combining closet dividers, organized drawers, and designated storage bins, you can create a streamlined system that makes managing your baby's ever-changing wardrobe simple and efficient.
