Choosing the Right Fit for Toddlers: What Size Comes After 5T? (+ FAQs)

If you’ve ever stood in the kids’ clothing section wondering, “Wait… what size comes after 5T?” — you’re not alone. Sizing can be confusing, especially when you’re juggling a growing toddler, unpredictable growth spurts, and a pile of outgrown clothes that still look brand new.

I remember being a first-time mom and second-guessing every tag, sizing chart, and guess from a store associate. Do you go up a size? Jump to the “big kid” section? Stick with brands you know or try something new?

Shopping for toddler clothes is something you have to do, but it doesn’t have to be a headache. That’s why I put this guide together — to make the transition from 5T and beyond simple, clear, and way less stressful.

In this post, I’ll break down:

• What size typically comes after 5T (and why it’s not always what you think)
• How toddler vs. kids’ sizing works
• What to look for in fit, stretch, and brand-specific sizing
• Plus, answers to the most common FAQs from moms in the same boat

Whether your little one is tall, tiny, or somewhere in between, I’ve got you covered with tips from personal experience and a little sizing know-how to help make shopping way easier.

So, what does size 5T mean?

Okay, if you’re anything like I was as a new parent, figuring out kid clothing sizes can feel like learning a new language.

I remember shopping and thinking, “Wait… what now?”

Here’s the deal: the “T” stands for toddler, and the number — in this case, 5 — usually lines up with the age of your child. So, 5T is made for the average 5-year-old toddler.

Simple enough, right?

But what I didn’t know at first is that the “T” isn’t just for age — it actually means the clothes are cut a little roomier, especially around the bottom area. That’s because a lot of toddlers at this stage are still wearing diapers or pull-ups, and that extra space helps make room for them.

With my little one, who was still in pull-ups at the time, 5T bottoms were a lifesaver. Regular size 5 pants from the “big kid” section just didn’t fit the same — they were tighter around the waist and didn’t have that comfy stretch we needed.

So if your kiddo is still in diapers, pull-ups, or even potty training, I definitely recommend sticking with sizes like 2T, 3T, 4T, or 5T — especially for bottoms. They just fit better for where your child is developmentally (and they’re way more forgiving during potty accidents too).

This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended – at no extra cost to you, of course. Read my disclosure here.

Is 5T and 5 the same size?

Short answer? Not exactly.

Size 5 and 5T are very similar, but there’s one key difference: 5T is designed with toddlers in mind, which means it usually has a little more room in the waist and butt area to make space for diapers or pull-ups.

Now, if your child is still in diapers or in the middle of potty training, you can absolutely try a regular size 5 — just know that it might feel a little snug, especially around the waistband or if the fabric has less stretch.

That said, don’t be afraid to size up!

A size 6 might offer a more comfortable fit, depending on your child’s shape, growth spurts, or the brand itself. And trust me, brand sizing can vary a LOT, so sometimes it’s just trial and error.

When I was shopping for my little one, I’d often grab a 5T and a size 5 just to compare — sometimes one worked better for pants, the other for tops. It really depends on how the clothes are cut and what stage your toddler is in. 

What Size Comes After 5T?

After your child outgrows 5T, the next step is typically size 6 — but depending on the brand, you might also come across sizes like 6S or 6X.

Here’s what those mean at a glance:

• 6S = slightly slimmer or shorter than a standard 6
• 6X = a bit roomier than a 6, but not quite a size 7

These sizes help bridge the gap between toddler and big kid clothing — especially helpful during growth spurts or if your child doesn’t quite fit the “standard” sizing mold.

Since sizing varies between brands, it’s always a good idea to check the brand’s size chart or ask a store associate or online rep if you’re unsure.

Popular Children’s Clothing Brands You’ll Want to Know

When it comes to dressing growing kiddos, certain brands just stand out for their quality, fit, and everyday comfort. Whether you’re shopping new or secondhand, these are some of the most popular children’s clothing brands that moms (myself included) keep coming back to.

Pro Mommy Tip: You can often score amazing pieces from these brands at resale shops, local consignment stores, or even thrift stores. Kids outgrow clothes so fast, and many of these items are barely worn.

Here are some tried-and-true favorites to keep an eye out for:

• Carter’s – Reliable for toddler sizes and known for soft, comfy basics.
• OshKosh B’gosh – Same parent company as Carter’s but with more denim, overalls, and sturdy styles.
• H&M – Trendy, modern pieces. Some cuts run slim, so always check the fit.
• The Children’s Place – Known for a wide range of sizes and fun, seasonal styles.
• Cat & Jack (Target) – Durable and parent-approved. Bonus: they offer sensory-friendly designs.
• Garanimals (Walmart) – Great for simple mix-and-match outfits; tends to run true to size.
• Old Navy – Lots of casual staples and bright, kid-friendly prints.
• Gymboree – Colorful, coordinated outfits that are perfect for photos or special events.
• Gap Kids – Classic and clean styles. Their fit can run slim, especially in pants.

Whether you’re shopping online, browsing racks at your favorite consignment store, or thrifting like a pro, these are the brands worth grabbing when you see them.

So, how do I take my child’s measurements?

Since every child grows at their own pace (and sometimes overnight, let’s be honest), taking their measurements is one of the best ways to make sure clothes will actually fit — especially when you’re shopping online or someone else is gifting clothes.

Sure, you’ll usually have your little one with you in-store, but what about when you’re ordering from a new brand, grabbing deals during a sale, or a family member wants to send something “in their size”?

Taking a few quick measurements can save you from returns and frustration later. It doesn’t have to be complicated — just a soft measuring tape and a few minutes can give you exactly what you need to compare against size charts. 

Grab a soft measuring tape (the kind used for sewing) and keep it loose but snug — you want accuracy, not tightness. Here’s what to measure:

Chest

• How to measure: Wrap the tape around the widest part of your child’s chest, right under the armpits.
• Tip: Have them lift their arms slightly — not fully up — to keep things natural.

Waist

• How to measure: Find their natural waistline (usually right above the belly button) and wrap the tape around.
• Tip: Don’t pull too tight — you want the fit to leave room for comfort, especially after snacks!

Inseam

• How to measure: Start at the top of the inner thigh and measure down to the bottom of the ankle.
• Tip: If your toddler won’t stand still (we’ve all been there), measure a pair of pants that fits them well instead.

Height

• How to measure: Have them stand against a wall (without shoes), heels flat. Use a pencil to mark the top of their head (try not to include their hair), then measure from the floor up. We love and this to measure our kids’ height (great for keeping track over the years).
• Tip: Measuring on tile or hardwood works better than carpet.

Hip (optional for fitted clothes)

• How to measure: Wrap the tape around the widest part of the hips and booty.
• Tip: Great for bottoms, especially if your little one wears pull-ups or has a fuller shape.

Length of the arms

This measurement will only matter if you’re buying long-sleeve tops otherwise, it’s not necessary. You’ll want to start at the top of the arm to the wrist. 

Once you’ve got these numbers, keep them handy in your phone or write them down somewhere — trust me, it’ll come in handy when you’re navigating those confusing size charts or helping Grandma pick the right size for birthday clothes.

Things You Should Know About Sizing for Kids

Alright, mama, I’m gonna break it all the way down for you — because kid sizing can feel like a whole different world (especially if you’re new to it).

Let’s start with baby clothes. These are usually labeled by months, not by age or size range. Here’s how it typically goes:

• Preemie – For babies born early or under about 5 lbs
• Newborn – Usually fits babies up to 8 lbs
• 0–3 Months – Sometimes just labeled “3M”
• 3–6 Months – Often labeled as “6M”
• 6–9 Months – You may also see this as “9M”
• 9–12 Months
• 12–18 Months
• 18–24 Months

Each brand may label these a little differently (some combine sizes like 0–3M, others skip certain ranges), but this gives you a general idea of how baby clothes are broken down.

And here’s the thing: sizing is usually based on maximum age — so if a onesie says 6M, that often means it fits up to 6 months. If your baby is on the chunkier or longer side (like mine was!), you might want to size up sooner than expected.

And Then We Get to Toddler Sizes…

Once you’re out of the baby stage, you’ll start seeing clothes labeled by years instead of months — and that’s when the “T” comes in.

The T stands for toddler, and here’s how it typically breaks down:

• 2T – for around age 2
• 3T – for around age 3
• 4T – for around age 4
• 5T – for around age 5

Now, here’s the thing — just because it says “2T” doesn’t mean it’ll fit your 2-year-old perfectly. Your toddler might be in a 3T, or even a 4T, depending on their size, growth spurts, or how certain brands cut their clothing.

The same goes for babies. Your 3-month-old might be rocking 6M or 9M sizes already — and that’s totally normal!

I know I keep saying this, but it really does depend on your child’s build and the brand. Some run small, some run big, and some are just… all over the place.

So don’t stress if the “right” size doesn’t match your kid’s age — go with what fits their body best.

Real Talk from One Mom to Another

As a mom of two, here’s one thing I’ve learned the hard way: always size up when in doubt. Kids — especially babies and toddlers — grow so fast that something might only get worn once or twice before it’s too snug. Bigger sizes give you more wear time (and save you money in the long run!).

Also, not all kids’ clothing brands are created equal. Your child might fit perfectly in one brand (like Carter’s), but be swimming or squished in another (like Cat & Jack or Jack & Jill). That’s why I always recommend taking your child’s measurements and checking the brand’s size guide before buying — especially when shopping online.

Of course, if you’re shopping in-store and your little one is with you, trying things on is always the safest bet (even if it’s a tiny bit chaotic in the dressing room ).

It can be hard to know what size to grab next, especially when you’re in between stages — so to make things easier, we’ve pulled together some of the most common questions parents ask when shopping for their growing kiddos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): what-size-comes-after-5t?

Is there a 6T size?

Nope! After 5T, you typically won’t see a “6T.” That’s because most brands stop using the “T” (which stands for toddler) after size 5T. At that point, kids are considered school-age, so the sizing shifts to regular numbers (like 6, 7, etc.).

Is size 4 bigger than 5T?

Surprisingly, no. A size 4 is actually smaller than 5T in many brands. 5T usually has a little extra room — especially in the diaper area — since it’s made with toddlers in mind.

What size does Children’s Place go to?

Children’s Place offers sizes for different departments. Here’s a quick breakdown by department:

• Baby – up to 24 months
• Toddler – up to 5T
• Girls – sizes 4 to 18 and 18P (plus)
• Boys – sizes 4 to 18 and up to 20H (husky)

Here’s a list however, if you want actual measurement check out their sizing charts here.

If you’re unsure about which size to choose, it’s always a good idea to check out Children’s Place’s official size chart online — it gives detailed measurements to help you pick the best fit.

What size does a 5-year-old wear in clothes?

It depends — really. Every child is different, and every brand cuts their clothes differently. Some 5-year-olds wear a 5T, others wear a 6 or even a 4T depending on height and build.

If you’re not sure, here are a few options:

Try on a few items in-store to see what fits best

Use your child’s current size as a baseline and consider sizing up

Take their measurements and compare them to the brand’s size chart

What is the next size up from 4T?

The next size after 4T is usually 5 or 5T. Depending on your child’s body type and whether they’re still in diapers or pull-ups, one may fit better than the other. Some parents skip 5T entirely and go straight to a regular size 6.

What age is 5T?

In a perfect world, 5T would fit every 5-year-old toddler however, we don’t live in such a place. So, it’s possible your 5-year-old wears a 4T or a 6. Either or is fine but it really depends on the child and the clothing brand.  

Next Steps

Now that you know what size comes after 5T (spoiler: it’s usually a size 6), you should feel more confident tackling the next round of clothing shopping for your little one.

Remember — every child grows at their own pace, and sizes can vary by brand, so don’t stress if things don’t fit “by the book.” Trust your instincts, check those size charts, and go with what works best for your child.

Was this guide helpful?

Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear what stage your kiddo is in and if you’ve run into any sizing surprises of your own.