The Best Kids’ Pajamas

Buying Guide

You may sleep in a T-shirt and sweatpants, but your children need special clothing. Pajamas should not be too loose but should also be flexible and lightweight enough that they can move comfortably throughout the night. You also need sleepwear with the coverage to keep kids warm while also being breathable enough to resist trapping moisture.

That might sound like a tall order, but pajama manufacturers are well aware of those needs. You can find plenty of pajama sets that check all those boxes and more. The key is to choose a set made from the right material.

Cotton is always a great choice, with 100% cotton being ideal. It’s lightweight and breathable, so it will keep sweating at a minimum while also allowing you to buy long-sleeved tops and full pants for the winter months. Innovative fabrics like Tencel Modal can give you those features with an extra layer of flexibility.

If you have younger children, it’s important to look out for choking hazards. Small, easy-to-detach items like buttons should be avoided. Most kids’ pajamas are designed without these features but keep an eye out just in case.

• Although it’s unlikely that your child will come into contact with a flame, the Consumer Product Safety Commission likes to play it safe. Manufacturers are required to ensure all pajamas are designed using flame-retardant materials. They should also be designed to be form-fitting, so if you’re sizing up, make sure you don’t buy pajamas that will be too loose.
• As comfortable and useful as 100% cotton can be, it can be prone to shrinking, especially if you wash or dry it with any heat. If you’re going for 100% cotton, look for pajamas that have been preshrunk to prevent this.
• One way to save money on pajamas is to buy out of season. Purchase winter pajamas during the end of winter, as pajamas made for warmer months start to go into circulation. You can get a great deal on summer pajamas in the late summer and early fall. Just keep in mind what size your children will likely be when it’s time to wear them.
• If your child has sensitivities or you’re simply concerned about the materials that come into contact with your children’s skin, organic cotton could be a great option. Organic options are also often designed with those sensitivities in mind and keep excess chemicals and dyes to a minimum.