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Socks are essential layers that keep your baby’s tiny toes warm, and the best socks for babies aren’t only adorable but non-slip so that they won’t fall off. Also, socks help prevent your baby from toppling over when moving around the house, when taking their first steps.
These tiny socks are available in a wide range of styles and colors that will make your baby look oh-so-adorable. Here we have listed the best-selling socks for babies, which boast quality craftsmanship. Read on to find baby socks that suit every need.
Top Picks
Can Babies Wear Socks While Sleeping?
This depends on the room temperature and your baby’s body temperature. In winter, socks keep your baby warm and help them sleep peacefully. But, remember never to overheat your little one as overheating can cause SIDS (1). Your infant only needs the same amount of clothes you wear in a similar environment plus an additional one.
In summers, socks might irritate them due to the hot weather. So, it’s better to avoid socks while they are sleeping. Ensure that socks are not so tight that they cause marks on their legs, nor so loose that they wiggle and hurt themselves.
15 Best Socks For Babies To Prevent Them From Toppling In 2024
Most socks on our list are unisex, but a few of them are exclusive for boys or girls. Let’s begin!
1. Best For Toddler Boys: Rative RB-71112 Crew Socks For Boys
Quick TipThe socks are of the ideal length for active toddler boys.
Pros
- These crew-cut socks are ideal to be worn by toddlers wearing shoes.
- The tiny rubber nodes at the base of the socks provide the toddler with a non-slip grip.
- The fabric is 95% cotton, which makes the socks soft and breathable.
- The pack contains 12 pairs of baby anti-skid socks, each with a unique color and pattern that will appeal to a toddler.
- Parents stated that the grip offered by the rubber node is just perfect for preventing skidding and falling.
Cons
- Many parents either found the socks to be too tight or loose for their little one. Make sure to buy the right size suitable for your child’s age.
- The socks tend to shrink after a wash. A quick wash in mild detergent with hands may be an ideal alternative to washing them in a washing machine.
"The vibrant prints and comfortable fit make my fussy baby eager to wear these socks. While they have proven durable enough to sustain regular washing, I’d recommend sizing up as they run a bit small."
2. Best For Baby Girls: Tiny Captain Toddler Baby Girls Socks
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 7,388 buyers on Amazon have said the product lives up to the hype.
The ankle-length socks are great for a baby girl who has just learned to stand up.
Pros
- The ribbed cuff of the socks comes with an elastic band that wraps around the leg. The band provides extra grip to prevent the sock from falling off a baby’s feet.
- The sole consists of rubber bumps arranged in a close pattern for a good non-slip grip and to support the walking baby.
- These multicolored quality-tested baby socks are great for first-time walkers who do most of the walking inside the house.
- The pack consists of six pairs of adorable baby socks with grips for added safety and each in a different color.
Cons
- The actual size of the socks can be bigger than the size of the baby’s foot. You may consider going a size below to get a perfect fit.
"These slipper-style socks stay put even when my toddler is running around. Besides, their stretchable build ensures a non-restrictive fit, and the anti-skid grips enhance traction. However, I’d suggest washing them by hand to prevent snagging."
3. Best Grip: Flanhiri Baby Boys Non-Skid Socks
These non-slip socks are highly useful and come in several designs.
Pros
- The fabric of the socks is 95% cotton, which makes them soft and comfortable. The socks are also breathable, which prevents sweaty feet.
- One pack consists of 12 pairs of non-slip socks, and you can choose from six different design options.
- The sole of these gender-neutral baby socks has rubber grippers for the child’s safety.
Cons
- Some parents noticed that the elastic of the socks could come across a bit tight for the baby.
"Besides featuring adorable patterns and bold colors, these socks' stretchable build has made them grow with my child. Their textured grips keep him stable while standing, and the cushioned underside feels soft. Moreover, the elastic does not leave any marks."
4. Best Stylish: Jefferies Socks Non-Skid Turn-Cuff Baby Socks
This pair of stylish socks goes along with any footwear worn by the little one.
Pros
- The cuffs of the socks turn outwards to create a slick look and make it easy for the parent to pull the socks up.
- Rubber bumps at the base of the socks create an anti-skid sole, which provides a good non-slip grip to the walking baby.
- Each pack consists of six pairs of socks. You can buy the socks in infant and toddler sizes with an option of two colors.
- The fabric is 80% cotton, which makes the socks quite gentle to the baby’s skin.
- These non-slip baby socks can endure constant kicking without slipping off.
Cons
- The socks are available only in “Infant” and “Toddler” sizes, and a wider range of size options would have been better.
- A few parents felt that the quality of the fabric could have been better.
"The thick tops of these socks keep them from rolling down or slipping off tiny feet. They have also maintained their shape and colors despite rigorous use and washing. Just a heads-up, the sizing runs slightly large, so remember to size down."
5. Best Breathable: LA Active Grip Ankle Socks
RememberThese are perfect for babies who just stepped into toddlerhood and are taking their first steps at home.
Pros
- The sole of these ankle socks for babies has rubber nodes that extend from the toes to the heel for a superior non-slip grip.
- There is a pull tab at the back of the foot, over the heel. It makes it easier for parents to slip the sock easily over the foot.
- The fabric is 80% cotton, which makes them quite breathable. The socks also contain spandex, which makes them adequately stretchable.
- You can pick these patterned baby socks in seven color options and for babies as young as six months old.
Cons
- The socks can be too thick to be worn with shoes. It is best to use them only at home.
- Some buyers found that the socks tend to shed lint after every wash. A few buyers experienced the socks fraying away after a couple of washes. Hand washing the socks would be better than machine washing.
"Thanks to their thick material and enhanced coverage, my little one's feet stay warm even during winter. While their grips are strong enough to sustain machine washing, I’d advise air drying them to keep them from shrinking."
6. Best For Special Occasions: Epeius Baby-Girls Eyelet Frilly Lace Socks
If you are looking for something fancy to go along with your baby’s frock and sandals, then these stylish, parent-recommended socks by Epeius can be a fantastic choice.
Pros
- The cuff of the sock has lace edges that frill out and sway when the baby girl walks. Your little one will surely look adorable!
- The lace baby socks are made from fabric that is 80% cotton, which makes them soft and breathable.
- The small amount of spandex added to the fabric keeps the socks adequately stretchy for a good fit.
- You can get these soft socks for babies in several design options. The socks are available in a pack of two, three, or five pairs, depending on the size you pick.
Cons
- Some parents noticed that the socks tend to be a bit large for newborns, despite them picking the right size.
"I love putting these socks on my daughter's feet during the Holidays. Their black hue and delicate lace detailing complement all her dresses, and the snug elastic keeps them in place. They were a little rough when new but softened after being washed."
7. Best With Frills: Jefferies Socks Eyelet Lace Trim Baby Socks
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product boasts 2,897 reviews on Amazon, and many buyers have said they would purchase the product again.
This charming pair of socks has some fancy frills that will look great on baby girls.
Pros
- The cuff has the right amount of elasticity to stay comfortably on the baby’s feet and prevent falling off an active baby.
- There is a piece of tiny adorable eyelet lace beneath the cuff. The lace frill bestows the socks a cute design.
- The socks contain a cotton and nylon blend along with elastane–a stretchy material–to provides the right mix of comfort, durability, and stretchability.
- These socks come in a basic color and are available in a wide variety of sizes, and you can pick socks for infants as young as a month old.
Cons
- A few parents noted that the socks tend to be slightly larger than desired, but fit perfectly as the baby grows older.
"Although plain, they made my little one look charming during christening. They are also breathable and don't cause any redness. While They are restricted to hand washing only, their lacework makes it worth the ordeal."
8. Best Stretchable: Luvable Friends Unisex Baby Socks
The best socks for your little one’s feet since you get a variety of design options here.
Pros
- The tried-and-tested socks are a mix of cotton, nylon, and spandex. These materials offer the best mix of softness, comfort, and stretchability to fit the baby’s little feet.
- These striped baby socks are available in sets, and each set consists of eight pairs. They are available in two size ranges: birth to six months and six months and above.
- You have 34 color options for each set. Each of the eight socks has a different pattern. It means you have a pair of socks to match every dress that the baby wears.
- The socks have good-quality elastic that lets them stay put on the baby’s feet.
Cons
- Some parents noticed that the socks tend to fray after a machine wash, even though they’re meant to be machine-washable. It is advisable to wash the socks by hand, considering their small size.
"The socks’ soft, thick, and pliable design keeps my baby comfortable even when he wears them for hours. While I must keep them away from Velcro to prevent snags, their machine-washable build makes maintenance easy."
9. Best Knee-Length: Fasker Unisex Knee-High Baby Socks
Liked by many reviewers, the knee-length socks are functional to keep the legs warm and are also pretty to look at.
Point To ConsiderPros
- A pack of socks contains six pairs, with each pair featuring a stitched design of an animal. There are also two cute buds of fabric extending from the top of the cuff to form ears of the animal.
- The knee-length height of these animal-themed baby socks prevents them from skidding on a slippery floor, even when the toddler is active and running.
- The fabric is a combination of cotton and spandex to give the user the perfect mix of comfort and stretchability.
- You can buy these cute socks for babies in multiple size options. You get two design choices, with each pair of socks in the set featuring a unique animal design.
Cons
- Some feel that the quality of the fabric could have been better.
- The socks may not be a perfect choice for toddlers with chubby legs.
"These socks have been the perfect find for winter as they provide ample warmth and coverage up to the calf. They leave a slight mark but do not cause pain or itchiness. Additionally, their animal-themed motifs look very cute."
10. Best Long-Lasting: Simple Joys By Carter’s Socks For Baby and Toddler Girls
These socks for your baby girl have a cute design and will last a long time.
Pros
- The socks have reinforced fabric around the toes and the heels. It prevents wear and tears when the baby walks in them and also while washing.
- The sole has patterned and non-slip grips to provide maximum grip while walking.
- The fabric content includes soft cotton, which makes these socks comfortable and breathable.
- The cuff of the socks has the right amount of elasticity to prevent the sock from falling off even when the toddler girls are actively playing.
Cons
- Many parents reported that the size of the socks could be large. You may consider going a size down.
- A few buyers felt that the fabric is a bit thin and the socks could have been thicker.
11. Best For Warmth: Gerber Baby Girls’ Sock
This is the right pair of socks to keep your baby girl’s little feet covered, whether at home or outdoors.
Pros
- The range of sizes offered is incredible since you can pick a pair of socks even for preemie babies.
- These warm socks for babies are available in a pack of six, with eight design options in each pack.
- The elastic of the socks forms a rolled cuff, which is soft and not too snug.
- The thickness and softness of these trusted baby socks with rolled-over cuffs are perfect for keeping the little one’s feet warm.
Cons
- Many parents state that the socks tend to run a bit small despite them selecting the right size. You may consider going a size up for your baby.
12. Best For Gifts: Luvable Friends Baby Basic Socks
Ideal to be a baby’s first socks, these come in multiple unisex designs and patterns.
Pros
- One pack consists of eight pairs of socks.
- These newborn socks make an ideal baby shower gift.
- The socks come in over 40 design and color options. The multiple design options make it an excellent gift idea for moms-to-be and new moms.
- It is available for newborns, babies, and toddlers up to the age of three years.
Cons
- Some parents felt that the quality of the socks’ fabric could have been better.
"The highlight of these socks is their unisex design, which allows me to use them for both my babies. They did pill on the first wash but have not caused any problems since then. Besides, their soft hue goes well with all kinds of outfits."
13. Best For Delicate Skin: Touched by Nature Baby Boys’ Organic Cotton Socks
If you like natural organic cotton products for your baby boy, then these best-selling socks meet that criterion.
Pros
- The cotton is enriched with polyester and spandex. Polyester adds durability, while the stretchy material spandex allows the socks to expand comfortably.
- The socks are comfortable thanks to the use of organic cotton. Many parents found the socks to be exceptionally soft and ideal for their baby’s delicate skin, thus offering quality assurance.
- These organic baby boy socks come in a set of six, and you can pick from over ten design options that feature a combination of vibrant and basic colors.
Cons
- The fabric only contains 78% organic cotton, and the product would have been more impressive if cotton content would have been at or more than 90%.
- A few parents found that the socks tend to run small and tight. You may consider going one size up to be on the safe side.
"The organic cotton build is what pushed me to get these socks. They are super breathable and maintain their charm even after washing. The only minus is the absence of grips, but their coziness more than compensates for it."
14. Best For Crawling: Gerber Baby Girls Wiggle Proof Sock
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 3,668 reviews on Amazon.
It is designed for little feet that tend to slip away a sock or two while playing and crawling.
Pros
- The fabric and fitting of the socks are such that they allow for maximum grip around the baby’s feet. It prevents the socks from falling off when the baby moves their legs excitedly or crawls quickly.
- It’s impressive how well the socks stay on the feet, in spite of the baby being active and moving the feet too much.
- The pack consists of eight pairs of cozy socks for babies. You can choose from six design options, including a design where the cuffs of the socks feature cute animal faces.
Cons
- The anti-slip, wiggle-proof design can make the sock a bit tight for some babies. Double-check to pick the right size and avoid socks that are too small for the baby.
"Despite being soft, these socks remain budge-free even when my baby kicks non-stop. Their designs are also adorable, and while I had to choose a bigger size, they fit pretty well and have not shrunk despite being washed regularly."
15. Best Easy-To-Clean: Little Me 20-Pack Newborn Infant And Toddler Girls Socks
This parent-recommended set of socks is guaranteed to add volumes of cuteness to your little ones and complement their outfits.
Pros
- Made of 70% cotton, 27% polyester, and 3% spandex, the socks are machine-washable.
- They come in assorted packs depending upon the age group, whether it is 0-3, 6-9, 9-12, or 12-24 months.
- These toddler and infant socks come in various colors, shades, and hues to suit different outfits.
- This set of socks is guaranteed to last long, despite numerous wear and washes.
Cons
- The sizes of the socks may vary from the standard sizes.
- The socks may not stretch easily.
"The large number of socks in this pack ensures I always have a fresh pair. They are also soft, and the non-slip grip keeps my baby from kicking them off. Plus, the color variety looks charming."
How Can Socks Help Babies?
Socks keep the baby’s feet warm during the chilly winter and rainy months. Cotton socks absorb sweat and can be used when your child begins to wear shoes. A pair of socks also provide the much-needed cushion to the feet when the baby starts to walk.
Types Of Baby Socks
Here are the most common types of socks that you are likely to see while shopping.
- Standard ankle-length socks: These are the tiny socks that we picture in our minds when we think of baby socks. A standard baby sock is likely to come a little bit over their ankles or just around the ankles. These socks are multipurpose and can be used indoors and outdoors while the baby wears baby sandals.
- Crew-length socks: Crew-length socks are the ones that are about halfway across the lower leg, or halfway around the calf muscle. These socks suit toddlers who wear shoes when they’re outdoors.
- Knee-high socks: The cuff rises almost to touch the knee. Knee-high baby socks are suitable to be worn during winter and chilly nights when you want maximum warmth for your baby.
- Socks with non-slip grippers: Some baby and toddler socks have small rubber nodes/bumps arranged in a pattern on the soles. These rubber sole nodes are designed to provide good grip to a baby who is beginning to take their first steps. Options with non-slip grippers are excellent everyday socks for babies who do most of their walking indoors, on smooth slippery floors.
How To Pick The Right Socks For A Baby?
Selecting the right pair of socks for your baby can depend on several factors. Keep these essential pointers in mind when buying socks for your baby.
- Purpose of usage: For babies aged less than a year old, socks are usually required to keep the feet warm. For toddlers, socks can provide the necessary cushion and grip while they walk around the house. Conventional baby socks are great while wearing shoes.
- Material: Conduct a material scrutiny before you make a purchase. Cotton-blended socks work well in hot and humid months, while wool or fleece socks are the perfect solution for protecting the baby’s feet during peak winters.
- Grip and length of the elastic: If you have an active toddler who loves playing outdoors, then pick socks that are knee-high and have a firm elastic.
, a motherhood, home, and lifestyle content creator, says, “Socks are an essential part of your baby’s attire. They provide comfort to your baby’s feet when they begin to wear footwear for the first time. Pick a pair of socks depending on the purpose: to keep their feet warm, for steady walking, or as fancy accessories for a party. Plus, consider socks with rubber grippers on the bottom for new walkers, and ensure the elastic at the ankles are not very tight.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. At what age do babies start wearing socks?
Your babies can start wearing socks as early as during their newborn phase as their feet tend to be cold, especially when you go outdoors. Remember that pediatricians recommend that infants learn to walk barefoot.
2. Do babies need their feet covered at night?
You should cover your baby in one additional layer of clothing to what you wear (1). If your baby’s dress doesn’t cover your baby’s feet, you can use socks.
3. Why are baby socks so important?
Babies usually lose the warmth from their head and feet. Keeping them warm is much needed to prevent colds. So, it is important to cover your baby’s feet with socks if their clothing doesn’t provide enough protection.
4. How long should a baby wear socks?
Cover your baby’s feet from time to time while ensuring that you provide them with breathing time even if it is cold.
5. What kind of socks should babies wear?
Babies should wear thick cotton socks as cotton helps keep the feet warm.
6. Do babies need to wear socks in summer?
Wearing socks in the summer is not a good idea as it overheats the baby.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna, our seasoned writer and reviewer of baby clothing, went through numerous trusted websites and reviews to bring you the best socks for your little ones. Each product on this list of the best socks for babies has been handpicked to fit your baby’s needs. Based on a comprehensive style assessment, she has provided detailed information about the socks’ material, grip, and other tested features. Vibha has also included a buying guide after careful trend analysis to help you choose the right pair for your baby.
The Bottom Line
Watching your baby take their first steps is nothing short of magical. While it is natural for your little one to fall and get back up, there are certain things that you could do to help them get a firm grip and walk effortlessly. One of these is investing in the best socks with anti-slip soles to prevent your baby from toppling. When choosing the best socks for small feet of babies, ensure the pair provides adequate cushion and grip and that the material is breathable, soft, and elastic. We recommend the Rative RB-71112 Crew Socks For Boys for its trendy crew-cut design and breathability and the Little Me 20-Pack Newborn Infant And Toddler Girls Socks as they are easy to wash and comfortable. You may also consider the Tiny Captain Toddler Baby Girls Socks for being extra-supportive with anti-slip rubber bumps.
Infographic: How To Choose The Right Socks For Your Baby?
Choosing the ideal pair of baby socks is easier said than done. With so many options available, deciding the appropriate fabric, size, and style for your infant might be challenging. Therefore, keeping a few factors in mind can help you make an informed decision. Check out our handy infographic to learn more about finding the best socks for your baby.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/A-Parents-Guide-to-Safe-Sleep.aspx
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