There’s no better feeling than changing out of your clothes at the end of a busy day and into a pair of soft and snuggly pyjamas.
It’s not just a treat for us grown-ups however - an essential part of their daily routine, changing into cosy pyjamas can also signal to your child that it’s time to calm down, relax and get ready for bed.
Its fair to say however, that not all kids pyjamas are created equal. A good pair of kids pyjamas will be warm and comfortable without causing your child to sweat or overheat under the covers. They’ll be made from stretchy, non-restrictive materials which won’t ride up during the night and most importantly, they’ll be soft and gentle against even sensitive skin.
Things to consider when choosing your child’s pyjamas:
- Fabric - The best kids’ pyjamas will be made from soft and sustainable materials - ideally 100 per cent cotton. Not only does cotton keep your child toasty warm on cold nights, it’s better at temperature regulating too, feeling soft and comfortable against your child’s skin without causing irritation.
- Ease of washing - Good quality pyjamas will be easy to clean even at cool temperatures, without bobbling or becoming mishapen. Read the washing instructions before you buy and check out recent reviews for reports of any shrinkage or fading.
- Fit - Some children prefer a snug, fitted design, while others prefer the looser fit of the more traditional style of pyjamas. It’s worth noting that pyjamas with a cuff to the ankle can prevent them riding up or letting in cool air while they sleep. The elasticated waist and pull-on designs are also easier for children to get on and off themselves, without the need for fiddly buttons or fastenings.
- Child appeal - If you’re keen to avoid any pre bedtime dramas, opting for child-friendly designs can really make all the difference, with options such as fun patterns, prints and glow in the dark features helping motivate your child to get ready for bed.
With the winter months fast approaching, here’s our round up of the best pyjamas for kids that will wash well and last the test of time.
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Boden Snug Long John Pyjamas
These long john style kids’ pyjamas come in a snug, slim fitting design. Made from 100 per cent brushed cotton, they’re soft and comfortable, while being a gentle option for those with sensitive skin.
They’re stretchy enough to be put on without assistance, whilst the ribbed cuffs on the wrist and ankles ensure they stay put all night long - even for the most wriggly of sleepers.
A Boden staple that tends to be available all year round, these kids’ pyjamas are available in a wide range of fun, child-friendly designs (including festive options that are ideal for a Christmas stocking).
Best for: A reliable all-rounder for all ages
Sizes available: From 3 years to 14 years
Buy now £23.00, Boden
Marks and Spencer Pure Cotton Pyjamas
Offering great value for money and an excellent choice for those shopping for multiple children, these skinny fit pyjamas are regularly on offer as part of an M&S two for £16 deal.
Made from soft and thick ethically sourced cotton, they’re designed with extra stretch for a close yet comfortable fit. The set includes a long sleeved top and cosy pyjama bottoms with a cuff at the ankle and they wash well, maintaining their shape even through regular wear.
Available in a wide variety of bold, bright and colourful designs and styles, you’re sure to find a style that matches your child’s personality.
Best for: Value for money
Sizes available: Dependent on design - either 12-18 months to 6-7 years or 7-8 years to 15-16 years
Buy now £10.50, Marks and Spencer
Next Snuggle Pyjamas
Buying multipacks of pyjamas for kids is a practical choice, meaning you can always have a pair clean, dry and ready to wear while the others are drying or in the wash.
With a slim fitting design that lies close against their skin, these cotton and polyester blend pyjamas hold in the heat and keep your child snuggly and warm all night long.
They come in a pack of three, each with unique variations on a theme. Whether your child opts for monochrome, dinosaurs, florals or rainbows, there’s a wide range of designs to choose from, many of which feature fun appique characters to heighten their kid appeal.
Best for: Cosy fit
Sizes available: 9-12 months to 9-10 years
Buy now £29.00, Next
Frugi All In One Pyjamas
There’s something insanely comforting about all-in-one pyjamas or sleepsuits - who says you need to switch to separates just because you’re out of nappies?
The cosy Frugi Zelah Zip Up All In One is made from 100 per cent organic cotton that is soft, breathable and kind to sensitive skin. With an easy access zip that tucks away into a handy chin guard, it also makes getting dressed for bedtime a breeze.
Made to grow with your child, Frugi has incorporated extendable rib cuffs to the sleeves and legs, meaning you can quickly fold them down to extend their wear when your chid has an unexpected growth spurt.
Best for: All-in-one comfort
Sizes available: From Newborn to 9-10 years
Buy now £24.00, Frugi
Kidly Organic Pyjamas
Ideal for tall and slim children, these Kidly Label Organic two piece pyjamas are made from 100 per cent GOTS certified cotton, making them an environmentally and socially responsible purchase for parents.
With a closer-fit and a choice of muted colour palettes in unisex styles, they’re great for mixing and matching. They’re also soft and gentle against skin, whilst the elasticated waist makes for aeasy and stress free bedtime prep.
Best for: Organic Cotton
Sizes available: 6-12 months to 5-6 years
Buy now £15.50, Kidly
The White Company Glow in the Dark Moonlight Woodland Pyjamas
On the surface, these navy kids pyjamas may look relatively ordinary, but trust me when I say they’ll have the kids counting down the minutes till lights out.
This slim fit pyjama bottom set is made from super soft cotton and comes with a subtle woodland night sky design that amazingly glows in the dark. Kids can snuggle up in bed and watch as the owls, bats and stars on this design come to life, providing a reassuring, comforting yet subtle glow to help them slowly drift off to sleep.
With an elasticated waist and easy pull on design made from 100 per cent cotton, they’re also a cosy and comfortable choice for kids of all ages.
Best for: Kid-friendly glow in the dark design
Sizes available: 1-1.5 years to 11-12 years
Buy now £24.00, The White Company
Polarn O.Pyret Organic Heart Pyjamas
For extra warmth on those really cold nights, the coordinating kids and adults sleepwear range from Polarn O.Pyret is an extra soft and cosy option made from 95 per cent GOTS Organic Cotton (with some elastane thrown in for a really comfy fit).
Made to last the test of time, these kids’ pyjamas can be washed at 30 or 60 degrees and promise colours that wont fade even after extended wear. Great for passing down to younger siblings, they also feature foldable cuffs to create valuable room as your child grows.
Best for: Matching child and parent designs
Sizes available: 1-2 years to 10-12 years
Buy now £30.00, Polarn O.Pyret
Hatley Organic Pyjama Set
We love the unique, bold and bright designs of Hatley’s kids’ pyjamas which are certainly not designed to fade into the background.
These super soft, snug fitting pyjamas are made from GOTS-certified cotton and with a stretchy elasticated waistband, they’re cosy and comfortable to wear all night long.
All the designs include a contrasting neck and cuffs trim and with 12 different options to choose from, the hardest part will be selecting your favourite!
Best for: Bold, bright designs
Sizes available: 2 to 12 years
Buy now £32.00, Hatley
Cyberjammies Kids Pyjamas
If you’re after a slightly more traditional pair of pyjamas for your kids, or are looking for a special pair for your child’s birthday or special occasion, these Cyberjammies pyjamas make a beautiful luxury choice.
Made from a cotton and modal blend, these relaxed fit pyjamas feature a bold oversized floral print with a contrasting ochre trim.
With coordinating styles available for adults too, these pyjamas are perhaps better suited to more confident dressers or older children due to the button fastening to the front.
Best for: Luxury design
Sizes available: 2-3 to 12-13 years
Buy now £24.00, M&S
JoJo Maman Bebe Pretty Bud Jersey Pyjamas
Last but by no means least, JoJo Maman Bebe have a great range of children’s pyjamas that come in quaint and traditional designs, offering a sense of nostalgia for parents, who may have worn similar as a child themselves.
We love the timeless bow detail, adorable frill collar and empire cut across the chest, while the natural cotton fibres will keep little ones cool and comfortable all year round.
Best for: Traditional style
Sizes available: 6-12 months to 5-6 years
Buy now £19.00, JoJo Maman Bebe
Verdict
A reliable all-rounder thats cosy and comfortable, washes well and comes in a variety of child friendly designs, we think the Boden Long John Pyjamas are an excellent choice for your kids’ pyjamas this winter.
That said, if you’re shopping on a smaller budget,the M&S two for £16 deal makes the high quality designs a practical and affordable choice.