2T vs 2 vs 24 Months Clothing Size: Differences Explained (2024)

You’ll never fully grasp how confusing clothing sizes can be until you have a baby.

And you know what’s more frustrating? Sizing can vary between different brands. Take, for instance, the case of 2T vs 2 vs 24 months clothing size.

Here, we’ll break down the differences among these sizes so you can find the best fit for your little one.

What Size Is 2T?

The T stands for, you’ve guessed it, toddler. Size 2T is well-suited for children aged 2–3 years old and has a more grown-up style.

The body shape is slimmer around the waist and has longer inseams, making it perfect for active kids who walk and explore more.

Snaps and fasteners disappear from many clothes. Instead, the bottoms have elastic waistbands, so it’s easier when it’s time to go potty.

Check out: Size 5 vs 5T: What are the differences?

What Size Is 2?

You’ll find that a size 2 is quite rare in children’s wear, and only a few imported brands use this sizing.

Generally, a size 2 can fit two-year-olds or kids weighing 12–14 kg (approximately 26–31 lb).

What Size is 24 Months?

In baby clothing sizes, the specified age range indicates the upper limit for which the outfit is suitable.

In short, the size 24 months is typically well-suited for a child 18–24 months old.

Additionally, the bottoms have extra room in the tushie area to accommodate a diaper, given that most children under two still wear them. Plus, there are snaps or buttons added for easier nappy changes.

In this size category, Target brands tend to be slimmer, ranging about 26.5–28 lbs in weight and 33–35.5′′ in length. Other brands like OshKosh, Gerber, Old Navy, and Baby Gap run this size for children around 27–32 lbs and 31–34′′ in height.

Please note that some babies might have moved to size 2T by this point, especially if they are taller or have a different body shape.

How Do 2T and 24 Months Clothing Sizes Differ?

Since size 2 baby clothes are not commonly available, we’ll focus on the differences between 2T and 24 months.

The sizing concept shifts as your baby advances to toddler clothing, which often brings a change in body proportions. Toddlers tend to have a slimmer waist and longer limbs relative to their height compared to babies with rounder tummies.

Here’s a simple rule to remember: Baby sizes represent the highest age at which clothes can fit, while toddler sizes reflect the lowest range.

You’ll find 24-month sizes in the baby section and 2T clothing in the toddler department.

Of course, each child grows at a distinct pace; same-age children don’t translate to same-size clothes. But hopefully, this gives you a general idea of what size to look for for your little one.

2T vs 2 vs and 24 Months: How to Pick the Right Size

Many parents mistakenly think 2T, 2, and 24 months are interchangeable. By now, it should be pretty clear that they’re not and that these sizes can have a few inches or pounds of difference between them.

And since children come in all shapes and sizes, consider these tips when choosing the right size for your baby:

• Keep track of your child’s height and weight, as these measurements offer more accurate indicators of their size than age.
• Most clothing brands provide size charts in-store or on their websites. Compare your kid’s measurements with these charts to determine the best-fitting size.
• Choose 24-month clothes if you want hassle-free diaper changes. If your little one is potty-trained, opt for 2T outfits.
• Babies and toddlers go through growth spurts. If your child is close to the upper end of a size range, choose 2T to make room for growth over the coming months.
• If possible, have your child try on clothing before making a purchase.
• Save the receipts, and don’t remove the labels until your child has tried on a piece of clothing. This way, you can return or exchange the item if it doesn’t fit.
• Read online reviews to get insights on how a particular brand’s clothing fits. Other parents might mention if the sizes run small, large, or true to size.
• Certain fabrics have more stretch than others. If you’re unsure about the fit, stretchy fabrics might be more forgiving.
• If you’re shopping for winter coats or sweaters, leave a bit more room to accommodate layers.

Wrapping Up

You see, telling apart 2T vs 2 vs 24 months clothing size isn’t all that perplexing. 2T is a toddler size, while 24 months is more suited to babies. Less common is size 2.

Kids grow at varying rates, so it’s best to consider your little one’s actual size when shopping for their clothes. Some brands provide height and weight guidelines to help you choose the best fit.

Lastly, you might also want to add extra wiggle room because, let’s be honest, kids outgrow their clothes pretty quickly.