The Best Baby Pajamas, According to Parents
On your search for the best baby pajamas, you’ll quickly learn that there are tons of options to consider. Footie sleepers, two-piece sets, sleep sacks and onesies are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to infant sleepwear. Sure, you could simply pick an adorable pair—of which there are many—but it’s even better to choose baby PJs that are equal parts cute and high quality.
It’s no secret that babies spend the majority of their time sleeping, so you definitely want them to be comfortable in their pajamas. However, baby PJs aren’t just for snoozing. In fact, 40 percent of parents who responded to our survey told us that their little ones wore infant sleepwear 24/7 in their first month. Meanwhile, another 32 percent said that their newborns wear pajamas whenever they’re at home. Needless to say, this versatile baby clothing is a staple from birth up to the one-year mark. Not sure where to start? Check out our picks of the best baby pajamas available now—plus, read on for buying tips.
We get it—infants need a lot of gear, including cute, functional clothing, like baby PJs. To help you find the best newborn pajamas for your little one, we browsed dozens of options, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling. Here are the steps we took to create this roundup:
- We asked our staff to evaluate brands they’ve personally used with their families. Our expert panel for this piece included: Ashlee Neuman, content director for The Bump and mom of two, Lauren Barth, associate director of lifecycle and mom of three and Martina Garvey, e-commerce editor and aunt of two.
- We surveyed almost 350 members of The Bump community about the baby pajamas they used. We then asked parents to rate brands and specific styles based on their firsthand experience.
- We researched what was being said about baby pajamas in The Bump community forums to learn what parents liked (and didn’t like) about certain brands and styles.
- We read the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) guidelines regarding children’s sleepwear and kept their safety considerations in mind when choosing products.
- To understand how these baby pajamas have worked for families, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring external forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out what parents across the country looked for in infant PJs.
- We considered several aspects when sourcing baby PJs to include in our roundup, such as material, closure style, diaper access and sizing options, to name a few.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
Overall best baby pajamas
- Made of GOTS-certified 100 percent cotton
- Hand-painted designs
- Non-slip grippers on all sizes
- No two-way zipper
At the top of our list of the best baby sleepers is Burt’s Bees Baby, which 8 percent of our survey respondents listed as their favorite baby pajama brand. The retailer offers several styles for little ones and big kids alike, and we especially love their zip-up PJs for infants. These footed baby pajamas feature a relaxed, roomy fit with elasticized ankles and cuffs for superior comfort and wear. They’re also made from 100 percent GOTS-certified cotton, so you can ensure that they’re soft against sensitive skin while also being an eco-friendly option.
Each pair includes thoughtful details that you’ll appreciate as a parent. For example, they’re complete with non-slip grips on the feet so your little one can move about with ease. Plus, there's a front zipper with a snap tab for smooth diaper changes. Newborn and 0-3 months sizes also come with no-scratch convertible mittens. Choose from a wide variety of hand-painted designs—including dinosaurs, rainbows, jungle animals and veggies, to name a few—for baby PJs that are comfy and adorable. “They have cute patterns and are easy to access for diaper changes,” Joan, a mom of one and a survey respondent, told us. Best of all, you can count on these footed pajamas to last for many snoozes to come. runnergirl2018, a member of The Bump forums, agrees, saying: "I really like their jammies and feel like they lasted a long time! They are still [our] primary jammies for my toddler.”
Sizes: Newborn to 6-9 months | Material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
Our product tester says:
Their organic cotton pajamas are quality! Super-soft, breathable, snug fitting. No major frills with these PJs, but adorable and unique patterns that make them feel extra special.
Our community says:
"They're soft and [make it] easy to change diapers." – Cassandra, mom of two and The Bump survey respondent
"I’m obsessed with Burt’s Bees pajamas. That [is] all [my child] wore as an infant (and even now, at 3.5). They are soft and wash up really well. They have occasional sales and I’ll stock up. Highly recommend, especially for warm-climate mamas." – surrenderdorothy, The Bump forum member
"I love Burt's Bees Baby for the early clothes. They are soft and neutral and have held up through two babies. Their pajamas are especially awesome." – tuxielove93, The Bump forum member
Best two-way zip baby pajamas
- Two-way zipper
- Easy diaper access, according to survey respondents
- Preemie sizes available in some prints
- Built-in booties don’t have grippers
According to our survey, 66 percent of parents were fans of baby pajamas with two-way zippers—and it’s easy to see why. This style makes it super simple to dress and undress baby as well as offering straightforward diaper changing access. For this reason and plenty of others, Carter’s 2-Way Zip Sleep & Play Pajamas stand out. The footed PJs are complete with a two-way zipper, of course, as well as a snap safety tab to protect your little sleepyhead’s chin.
As the name suggests, these versatile jammies can be worn for sleeping and playing. With that in mind, if you plan on dressing baby solely in PJs for the first few months, these are sure to fit the bill. Moreover, the footed bodysuits are made from an OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified cotton blend, so they’ll be gentle against delicate skin. Kendyl, a mom of two and a survey respondent, was a big fan of these PJs. She said that the “pajamas were super soft and the zipper made it easy to get it on and off and do middle-of-the-night diaper changes." All of that’s to say, it wasn’t surprising that 40 percent of our survey respondents told us that Carter’s was their top brand when it comes to infant sleepwear.
Sizes: Newborn to 9 months | Material: 60% cotton/40% polyester | Care instructions: Machine wash
Our community says:
"I love how Carter's Sleep and Play pajamas fit my baby; they are the perfect length and never too tight. I think that Carter's has some of the cutest baby jammies, especially their animal prints." – Catherine, mom of one and The Bump survey respondent
"I love that they have the two-way zipper and are super soft. The ease of getting diapers changed in the middle of the night is so important!" – Christine, mom of two and The Bump survey respondent
"I'd definitely get some [Carter's] sleep and play (the sleepers with legs and feet)—[my] kiddo wore those all the time (day and night) the first month." – ncbelle, The Bump forum member
Best year-round baby pajamas
- Breathable, super-soft fabric
- Preemie sizes
- Matching family options
- Some prints sell out quickly
Next up are these too-cute baby pajamas that are made from a buttery soft bamboo-viscose blend that’s gentle on sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Little Sleepies—a brand favored by 14 percent of our survey respondents—is known for their ultra-soft, lightweight fabric and these PJs are no exception. The material naturally regulates temperature, so you can depend on it for breathability and coziness, no matter the season. “The material is really nice. I like the bamboo and how it can be worn year-round without making my baby too hot or too cold,” Faith, a mom of one and a survey respondent, told us.
Highlights you and baby will appreciate include the tagless design (for added comfort) and fold-over ankle cuffs to keep teeny tiny feet warm. What’s more, there are several adorable options available, ranging from solid hues to retro-inspired prints and everything in between. If you’re on the hunt for matching family pajamas, Little Sleepies has you covered; many patterns come in a wide range of styles and sizes. “Little Sleepies is my go-to pajama brand for babies, kids and adults alike,” says Martina G., aunt of two and e-commerce editor for The Bump. “I own the gray PJ bottoms and they're in constant rotation!”
Sizes: Preemie to 3 years | Material: 95% bamboo viscose/5% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Our product tester says:
I love Little Sleepies PJs for their adorable prints (seriously, they're all swoon-worthy) and the feel of their bamboo fabric. It's thin, but it's so soft against baby's sensitive skin and super stretchy.
Our community says:
"These pajamas fit for a long time. They are so soft and comfortable that I wear the adult versions." – Jessica, mom of one and The Bump survey respondent
"I love the brand because of the material and fit! The softest and seemingly must comfortable, durable, long lasting and not to mention the cutest colors and patterns. They fit great. Amazing quality." - Khari*, mom of one and The Bump survey respondent
Best easy-on easy-off baby pajamas
- Simple dressing and diaper changes, according to survey respondents
- Eco-friendly, temperature-regulating fabric
- Runs small; see size chart for measurements
- Relatively high price point
Some days, dressing baby is no easy feat. In fact, our survey showed that 80 percent of parents look for infant sleepwear that’s easy to put on and take off. That’s why we’re fans of this option from Magnetic Me. In contrast to typical zipper and snap closure styles, these jammies are complete with time-saving magnetic fasteners. As a result, they slip on without having to go over your child’s head, making dressing and changes a more seamless process. Each pair is made from silky soft modal fabric, that’s stretchy and flexible while still being comfy, of course. The temperature-regulating material is great for year-round wear and is ideal for numerous activities, whether that’s snoozing or exploring.
Our survey found that 10 percent of parents preferred Magnetic Me baby pajamas over other brands. Katie, a mom of one and a survey respondent, told us: “I love the Magnetic Me [PJs] for bedtime. They’re really easy to put on after my baby’s bath (when he is really wiggly!) and they’re so soft.” If that’s not all, “the closures make nighttime diaper changes easy,” she added. Not only are these practical jammies effective, but they also come in various sweet patterns and colors. What’s not to love?
Sizes: Preemie to 18-24 months | Material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
Our community says:
"I appreciate that these pajamas are lightweight and soft—they are not too hot under a sleep sack. The magnetic closures make for very easy wear and dressing." – Yarden*, mom of one and The Bump survey respondent
"The magnets make it for an easy on and off. The sizes extend well past their indicated size/month worn." – Courtney, mom of one and The Bump survey respondent
"For the little baby phase (<6 mo), I am a big fan of sleepers with feet that either zip both ways, or have magnets. […] At 3 a.m. Zippyjams are great, as [are] MagneticMe ([especially] the bamboo for summer)." – bumblebee0210, The Bump forum member
Most durable baby pajamas
- Impressively durable, according to parents
- Foldover cuffs grow with baby
- 100 percent OEKO-TEX-certified cotton
- Relatively high price point
When it comes to the most durable baby pajamas, Hanna Andersson takes the cake. The baby clothing brand is known for their hand-me-down-quality apparel and that extends to their sleepwear offerings. Take these footless baby pajamas, for instance. They’re made from a 100 percent organic cotton rib-knit material that’s been prewashed to prevent shrinking overtime. Even better, they’re also sensory-friendly with super-smooth flatlock seams and a protective zipper tab.
But that’s not all. Parents will appreciate the foldable arm and leg cuffs that make it easy to adjust the fit to meet baby’s changing needs—even after a growth spurt. The baby PJs come in a number of different designs, so you’ll have plenty of choices to choose from for your little sleepyhead.
Looking for an alternative to their cotton sleepwear? “Their new HannaSoft fabric (made with lyocell) is deliciously soft, smooth and cooling, perfect for warmer months or sweaty sleepers,” says Ashlee N., mom of two and content director for The Bump. And while the price point for Hanna Andersson baby pajamas is higher than other options on the market, parents across the board agree that these high-quality jammies are 100 percent worth it.
Sizes: 0-3 months to 3 years | Material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Our product tester says:
Hanna Andersson makes some of my absolute favorite baby pajamas. Their original cotton is soft and thick, making them quality PJs you can pass down from child to child—I have some in our closets that have been used by three kids and they're still in excellent shape!
Our community says:
"We love Hanna Andersson when we can find them for cheap. They retail around $38 but hold up SO well and if you're into resale, they hold their value." – Texascat, The Bump forum member
"We love Hanna Andersson PJs. They are expensive, but the cotton is super high-quality and for some reason, have enough give that they last a lot longer than [my child's] other PJs. I buy them one size big so he gets almost a year out of them because of the stretch." – sharrow, The Bump forum member
Best fleece baby pajamas
- Durable, according to parents
- Preemie sizes
- Affordable price point
- Mixed reviews about sizing
Carter’s Sleep & Play footie pajamas also come in extra-cozy fleece options—just like these. The multipack comes with two pairs of footed pajamas that are sure to be in constant rotation during cooler months of the year. Each is equipped with a two-way zipper to make your life easier and to keep baby comfy when dressing your child or changing their diaper. There’s also a top-snap closure to protect even the wiggliest of little ones.
Fleece may seem like a slippery fabric option for kiddos on the verge of standing and walking, but that won’t be an issue with these jammies. They’ve been made with slip-resistant grippers on the sole of each foot for added safety measures. And while the material will keep baby snuggled and warm in chilly weather, it’s also breathable. What’s more, these PJs are available in a range of sizes from preemie to 9 months—whether you’re looking for newborn footed pajamas or an option for your almost-toddler, Carter’s has your back.
Sizes: Preemie to 6-9 months | Material: 100% polyester | Care instructions: Machine wash
Our product tester says:
Carter's has a huge selection of comfy cotton PJs at reasonable prices—but I particularly love Carter's for their fleece jammies. We spend a lot of time in Vermont during the winter months and my girls always were toasty in their footie fleece PJs, complete with full zippers for easy on and off.
Our community says:
"I like that [Carter's has] different types of material including fleece for colder nights. I like that they seem comfortable for my baby." – Jamie, parent of one and The Bump survey respondent
Best affordable baby pajamas
- Foldover mitten cuffs
- 100 percent OEKO-TEX-certified cotton
- Affordable price point
- Some styles sell out quickly
According to our survey, 48 percent of parents keep price top of mind when shopping for baby pajamas. Luckily, teeny tiny PJs don’t have to cost a small fortune. Take this convenient multipack from Target’s Cloud Island label, for example. The budget-friendly trio rings in at $15 and just because you’re saving doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on quality. Each pair of these infant and newborn pajamas is made from OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified cotton that’s soft and breathable. Even better, they’re equipped with two-way zippers, protective snap tabs and fold-over mittens to prevent scratches.
The sleep-and-play style is ideal for all-day comfort, without sacrificing on style. Lauren B., mom of three and associate content director of lifecycle for The Bump wholeheartedly agrees. “The whimsical or eclectic patterns give these everyday jams some flair,” she says, “And I love that you can occasionally snag a matching baby headband or accessory to really elevate the look. You know, in case there's a day you don't get baby out of their pajamas!”
Sizes: Newborn to 6-9 months | Material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
Our product tester says:
Target can do no wrong in my book. And their inhouse baby clothing brand nails it. The pieces are pretty basic, but in the best way possible.
Our community says:
"They're comfortable and soft. They're also stretchy and efficient." – Alex, parent of one and The Bump survey respondent
"They're buttery soft and come in very cute colors. But, I wish they didn’t sell out so fast in stores and offered more colors." – Victoria, mom of one and The Bump survey respondent
Softest baby pajamas
- Buttery soft and snuggly
- Parents say they wash well
- Matching accessories available
- Relatively high price point
74 percent of parents who responded to our survey cited softness as a key factor they considered when picking out baby PJs. If you’re part of that majority, opt for these newborn and infant pajamas from Caden Lane. Right off the bat, you’ll feel that they’re buttery soft, thanks to the brand’s signature polyester-spandex blend. As a result, they’re also great for year-round wear. Whether you’re cuddling on the couch, wrapping baby up in their stroller for a walk, putting them down for a nap or anything in between, you can ensure they’ll be comfy, cozy.
These infant and newborn footed pajamas are complete with grips to keep your little one stable as they move and cruise. Another standout feature you’ll be a fan of is the two-way zipper, which will make diaper changes and dressing baby a bit easier—especially in the early hours of the day. Better yet, parents also say that these jammies are durable and wear well. All in all, these baby PJs would be a snuggly addition to any little one’s sleepwear rotation.
Sizes: Newborn to 6-12 months | Material: 95% polyester/5% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry
Our community says:
"Super soft! Very easy to get on and off and easy to clean." – Brandon, dad of one and The Bump survey respondent
Best baby pajamas for basics
- Durable, according to parents
- 100 percent organic cotton
- Size option for smaller newborns
- Runs small, according to some parents
- No two-way zipper
On the hunt for basics? Look no further that GAP’s newborn and infant pajamas. These simply sweet footed PJs are made from 100 percent organic cotton. Plus, they have a full-front zipper along with a snap tab for added peace of mind. They’re perfect for parents who want to stock up on reliably cozy sleepwear—especially since GAP regularly has sales events. Parents can’t get enough of the high-quality feel and durability of these one-pieces. What’s more, the too-cute baby pajamas come in a variety of earth-toned colors, gender-neutral patterns and other adorable prints. This way, you’re sure to find something that aligns with your style.
Sizes: Up to 7 lbs. to 6-9 months | Material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: Machine wash
Our product tester says:
GAP baby PJs check all the boxes for me—soft, thick organic cotton that holds up beautifully against daily wear and tear; full zippers with snap tabs for easy on-off and diaper changes; cute prints and reasonable price points!
Best colorful baby pajamas
- 100 percent GOTS-certified cotton
- Pre-washed to reduce shrinkage
- Fun color options
- Only some sizes have non-skid soles
- No two-way zipper
Add a pop of color to your little one’s nap- and bedtime routine with these baby footed pajamas from Primary. You’ll love that they’re made from organic cotton that’s GOTS-certified and free of toxic chemicals, making it a safe choice for both baby and the planet. Meanwhile, baby will appreciate that they’re soft and perfectly stretchy, so they’ll be comfy whether they’re on the move or snoozing. These infant pajamas feature a front zipper with a top tab that makes changing a breeze. Not only do they provide comfort, they also come in a wide array of vibrant hues, from mint and lavender to watermelon and clementine.
Sizes: Newborn to 18-24 months | Material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: N/A
Our product tester says:
Everything I've ever purchased from Primary has been fantastic! Buttery soft yet incredibly durable cotton, and prices that make you feel like you're getting a real steal.
Our community says:
"They're basic cotton, breathable and the front zip is key." – Riley*, parent of one and The Bump survey respondent
Best two-piece baby pajamas
- 100 percent OEKO-TEX-certified cotton
- Durable and soft, according to parents
- Elasticated waistband for easy dressing
- No sizes for younger infants
Last but not least on our list of the best baby pajamas is a two-piece set for older infants. These long-john baby pajamas are designed to keep baby cozy and safe as they slumber year-round. Thoughtfully made to be extra-soft against your little love’s skin, they’re crafted from 100 percent organic cotton. Plus, they feature an elasticated waistband and ribbed cuffs for extra comfort (and straightforward dressing). With this pack, you’ll receive two sweet snug-fit styles to add to baby’s sleepwear rotation.
Sizes: 9-12 months to 18-24 months | Material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: Machine wash cool, tumble or hang dry
*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.
We conducted a survey to better understand exactly what parents were looking for when picking out newborn and infant pajamas. According to 84 percent of our respondents, the top priority was baby’s comfort. Next up was easy diaper access (76 percent) and having a style that was easy to put on and take off (74 percent). Below, check out all of our findings and see what parents from The Bump community prefer when it comes to baby PJs:
Other factors you’ll want to keep top of mind are style, material and safety. Below, read more about each of these categories in detail to figure out the best fit for your little one.
Style
Most baby pajama styles can be broken into a few categories:
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Zipper vs. snap. This is a matter of preference. Zipper baby pajamas are much easier and faster to get your little one in and out of—especially when it comes to middle-of-the-night diaper changes. If that’s not all, 88 percent of our survey respondents told us they’re fans of zippered styles. Snap pajamas, however, allow you to take baby’s legs and feet out without undoing the upper part of the pajamas, helping to keep baby’s upper body warm; they’re also less disruptive for snoozy infants. That said, there are also zipper PJs with a two-way zipper—meaning it can unzip from the bottom up—which offers the same convenience of snaps without the hassle of actually snapping them.
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Footie vs. footless. Baby footie pajamas essentially have built-in socks, which keep those tiny toes toasty without running the risk of baby kicking off their socks. They’re particularly great as newborn pajamas and for cold weather, since they keep your little one completely covered. It’s no wonder 90 percent of our survey respondents used footie sleepers! Alternatively, footless baby pajamas can help your little one stay cool during warmer months and can be beneficial if your child is beginning to stand or walk, allowing them to be barefoot. Footless baby PJs are also great for parents with long babies since they offer more room and less restriction in length. According to our survey, 50 percent of parents also used footless sleepers and jumpers with their infants.
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One-piece vs. separates. While it ultimately comes down to personal preference, one-piece baby pajamas are often the best choice for babies under 6 months. Used by 52 percent of our survey respondents, they’re comfortable and easy to maneuver during diaper changes, especially if they’re designed with a front zipper. Nightgowns with knotted or elasticized bottoms are also great for babies 3 months and under. They’re breathable and help baby stay warm and comfortable, while also giving you easy access for frequent changes. Two-piece baby pajamas, on the other hand, are good for babies 6 months and older. They’re also convenient for middle-of-the-night changes since you can simply slip the pants down without dealing with snaps or zippers.
Material
When determining the best material for baby’s pajamas, you’ll want to consider your child’s typical sleep environment as well as their sleep temperature. Overall, you want baby PJs to be soft, breathable and appropriate for the season. Baby pajamas are most often made from:
- Cotton (soft and breathable)
- Jersey (soft, breathable and stretchy)
- Bamboo (friendly on sensitive skin, while also managing temperature and wicking moisture)
- Fleece (warm and moisture-wicking)
Safety considerations
According to the safety standards set by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), baby pajamas should be either made with a flame-resistant material or tight-fitting for safe wear. Snug baby pajamas don’t allow for air between baby’s skin and the fabric, so there’s little oxygen for flames to feed off of. Moreover, tight baby PJs are often stretchier and made with higher-quality materials than loose-fitting pajamas.
Wondering where to find all these wonderful pajamas for baby? Below, we’ve listed some favorite tried-and-true retailers and brands known for their baby sleepwear.
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Carter’s: First up is Carter’s, a brand loved by a whopping 40 percent of parents who responded to our survey. The retailer offers an array of infant sleepwear, ranging from footie sleepers and sleep and play jumpsuits to wearable blankets and two-piece sets. Carter’s is also known for their fleecy, zip-up PJs. We doubt there are many kids out there who haven’t sported them; they’re cozy, easy to get into and out of and, of course, totally adorable!
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Burt’s Bees Baby: Originally popular for body products, Burt’s Bees has expanded into organic baby clothing. Favored by 8 percent of our survey respondents, the brand’s newborn pajamas are incredibly soft, and can also be found at retailers like Target or Amazon.
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Hanna Andersson: Children’s clothing staple brand Hanna Andersson certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to baby PJs! The company produces an entire line of baby pajamas in various styles that feature their iconic bright colors. (And you can sometimes get matching options for the rest of the family!)
About the writer:
Emma O’Regan-Reidy is an editor at The Bump. She specializes in writing e-commerce content about the latest and greatest in pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. O’Regan-Reidy has researched an array of topics, from prenatal vitamins and postpartum pads to the best non-wifi baby monitors, toddler learning towers and everything in between. With over a four-year career in digital media, O’Regan-Reidy has written dozens of baby clothing articles, aiming to create engaging, helpful content that informs new and seasoned parents.
Plus, more from The Bump:
The Bump March 2024 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of almost 350 parents from The Bump community, and asked what brand and style of baby pajamas they’ve used with their children.
CPSC, Children’s Sleepwear Regulations
Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process.
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