How To Organize Baby Clothes (22 Pro Tips & Ideas) - Oh So Spotless

Babies require a surprising amount of gear. Between the spit-ups, diaper blowouts, and constant growth spurts, you need a mountain of onesies and sleepers just to survive the week. But tiny clothes are notoriously difficult to fold and even harder to keep organized.

If you don’t have a system in place, you’ll likely end up digging through laundry piles at 3 AM looking for a clean pajama set. Effective organization saves you time, space, and sanity. Here is how to organize baby clothes so everything you need is right at your fingertips.

Key Takeaways

• Sort by size: Group clothing by age range and use closet dividers to clearly label each section.
• File fold items: Use the KonMari method to stand clothes upright in drawers so you can see everything at a glance.
• Maximize vertical space: Install a second closet rail, use hanging organizers, or add shelves to utilize dead space.
• Plan for growth: Keep a “too small” bin handy for outgrown items and store future sizes in labeled bins.

In This Article

• Organizing by Size
• Baby Clothes by Size
• Folding Baby Clothes
• Closet Organization
• Dresser Organization
• Small Space Organization
• Storage Ideas
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Organizing Baby Clothes by Size

Baby clothing comes in various sizes, usually starting at Newborn (NB) and moving up to 18-24 months. However, organizing strictly by age can be tricky because babies grow at different rates. A newborn might skip the NB size entirely and go straight to 0-3 months, while a preemie might stay in smaller sizes for a long time.

Furthermore, sizing is not consistent across brands. A 3-month onesie from one brand might be significantly smaller than the same size from another. Always look at the weight and height guidelines on the tag rather than just the age.

Here is a general chart to help you sort your piles.

Baby Clothes by Size

Size	Age	Weight	Length
Premie (P)	Premies	Up to 6 lbs	Up to 18″
Newborn (NB)	Newborn	5-9 lbs	17″-21.5″
3 months	0-3 months	8-12.5 lbs	21″-24″
6 months	3-6 months	12-17 lbs	24″-26″
9 months	6-9 months	16-21 lbs	26″-28.5″
12 months	9-12 months	20-25 lbs	28″-30.5″
18 months	12-18 months	24-28 lbs	30.5″-32.5″
24 months	18 – 24 months	28-32 lbs	32″-34″

How to Fold Baby Clothes

The most efficient way to store baby items in drawers is using the KonMari (“file folding”) method. Folding clothes this way allows them to stand upright rather than stacking them flat. When you open the drawer, you see every single item at once.

For onesies and shirts:

• Fold lengthwise: Bring the sides in to create a long rectangle. Fold sleeves back if needed.
• Fold up: Fold the bottom up in halves or thirds until the item creates a small, smooth rectangle that stands on its own.

For sleepers and pants:

• Create a rectangle: Fold pants in half lengthwise (leg over leg). For sleepers, fold arms in and legs up to create a rectangle.
• Roll or fold: Fold into thirds or quarters. Some parents prefer rolling sleepers like a burrito to save even more space.

Closet Organization Tips

Additional Closet Rail

Baby clothes are tiny and vertical space often goes to waste in a standard closet. You can instantly double your storage by installing a second closet rail.

These extenders usually hang from the top rod, giving you two levels of hanging space. Use the top rail for special occasion outfits and the lower rail for daily wear.

Closet Dividers

Closet dividers are essential for keeping sizes separated. Without them, 3-month and 6-month clothes merge into one messy clutter.

Place a divider between each size category. This helps you grab the right fit immediately and makes putting laundry away much faster.

Coat Hanger Clips

Baby outfits often come in sets, and parts get lost easily. Use clips to attach matching pants or bloomers to the shirt hanger.

If you want a budget-friendly DIY option, classic clothespins work perfectly for clipping trousers to hangers.

Hanging Baskets

Utilize the “dead space” at the very top of the closet. Install hooks under the shelf or use an over-the-door system to hold wire or wicker baskets.

This is the perfect spot for non-daily items like extra blankets, heavy winter gear, or the next size of diapers.

Pegboard Storage

Back-of-door storage is a lifesaver in small nurseries. Mount a pegboard on the inside of the closet door to create a custom organization wall.

Add hooks for baskets to hold socks, bibs, headbands, and pacifiers. The best part is that you can rearrange the hooks as your baby’s needs change.

Shoe Organizers

Over-the-door shoe organizers aren’t just for footwear. The clear pockets are the perfect size for rolled-up onesies, burp cloths, or lotions.

A shoe organizer lets you see exactly what you have without digging through a drawer.

Curtain Ring Shoe Storage

Baby shoes are cute, but they are difficult to organize because they are so small. Try using curtain rings with clips on a low tension rod.

Simply clip the shoes together and hang them up. This keeps pairs together and turns them into a cute display.

Dresser Organization Tips

Chalkboard Labels

Labeling your drawers helps everyone (including partners and grandparents) know where things go. Chalkboard paint or vinyl labels on the drawer fronts look stylish and are functional.

You can label by item type (Onesies, PJs, Socks) or by size. When the baby moves up a size, simply erase the chalk and write the new label.

Drawer Dividers

Large drawers become chaotic quickly with tiny baby clothes. Drawer dividers create specific “zones” inside the drawer.

Use one section for short-sleeve onesies and another for long-sleeve onesies. This keeps your beautifully folded rows intact even after rummaging for an outfit.

Small Baskets in Drawers

For the tiniest items like socks, mittens, and bows, dividers might not be enough. Place small canvas or plastic bins inside the drawers to act as catch-alls.

This prevents small accessories from floating to the back of the dresser where they get lost forever.

The Sock Bucket

Folding baby socks is tedious and often unnecessary. Instead, dedicate a small container or bin specifically for socks and just toss them in.

Pro tip: Buy socks in bulk in all white or black. This way, you never have to waste time matching specific patterns.

Organization Tips for Small Spaces

Rolling Trolley

If you lack drawer space, a rolling utility cart is a fantastic alternative. These three-tier carts can hold diapers, wipes, onesies, and swaddles.

Because it has wheels, you can roll it next to the changing table during the day and tuck it into a closet or corner at night.

Wall Mounted Baskets

When floor space is limited, go vertical. Mount wire or wicker baskets directly to the wall near the changing station.

Roll your baby’s outfits and stack them in the baskets. It looks decorative and serves as practical open storage.

Fabric Storage Boxes

Use fabric-covered bins on open shelving units. You can coordinate the fabric with your nursery theme to keep things looking cohesive.

Sort clothes by category (e.g., “Sleep,” “Play,” “Dressy”) into different boxes. This is often cheaper than buying a heavy wooden dresser.

Accessory Frames

Baby accessories like headbands and bows can get crushed in drawers. Create a display using an empty picture frame backed with chicken wire or ribbon.

Clip the bows onto the wire or ribbon. It doubles as wall art and keeps accessories in perfect shape.

Toy Bin Towers

Those inclined plastic bin organizers aren’t just for toys. They are excellent for sorting baby clothes because the bins are angled for easy access.

Assign a bin for shoes, one for blankets, and one for daily outfits. It is a great height for toddlers to eventually help pick out their own clothes.

Wall Pegs

Simple wall pegs or shaker hooks are great for items you use multiple times a day, like sleep sacks or hooded towels.

Install a row of pegs near the door or changing table. It prevents you from draping used-but-clean items over the side of the crib.

Baby Clothes Storage Ideas

The “Too Small” Bin

Keep a dedicated bin or basket in the closet specifically for outgrown clothes. As soon as you notice something is too tight on your baby, wash it and toss it in this bin immediately.

Once the bin is full, sort it into storage containers or donation bags. This keeps your current drawers clutter-free.

Vacuum Storage Bags

If you plan to save clothes for a future sibling, vacuum seal bags are your best friend. They shrink fluffy winter coats and piles of sleepers down to flat pancakes.

This protects the fabric from moisture, dust, and pests while drastically reducing the storage space required.

Clear Bins with Lids

Clear plastic totes are superior to cardboard boxes for long-term storage (attics or basements) because they are waterproof and stackable.

Since they are clear, you can see the contents without opening them. Store by size (e.g., “0-3 Months” in one bin, “3-6 Months” in another).

Upcycled Diaper Boxes

If you are on a budget, reuse the sturdy cardboard boxes your diapers come in. Cover them with contact paper or fabric to make them look nice.

They are the perfect size for storing folded baby clothes. Just be sure to label the outside clearly.

Detailed Labeling

When storing clothes, general labels like “Baby Clothes” aren’t helpful. Be specific. Write “Girl – 6-9 Months – Winter” or “Boy – 12 Months – Summer.”

This saves you from opening every single box when you are looking for a specific size later on.

FAQs

How Do You Set Up a Room For a Newborn?

Focus on the “zones” of the room: sleeping (crib), changing (dresser/table), and feeding (glider/chair). Keep the diaper changing zone stocked with diapers, wipes, and onesies within arm’s reach so you never have to leave the baby unattended.

How Many Outfits Should You Have For a Newborn?

A practical number is 7 to 10 of each essential. Aim for 7 onesies, 7 sleepers (zippers are easier than buttons), and 3-4 swaddles. This ensures you only have to do laundry once or twice a week.

Do You Cut Labels Off Baby Clothes?

Generally, no. The labels contain washing instructions and sizing information, which is helpful for sorting later. However, if a tag is scratching your baby’s neck and causing irritation, you should carefully cut it out.

How Do You Organize Baby Clothes Without a Closet?

Use a dresser for folded items and install wall hooks or a floating rail for hanging items. Rolling carts and under-crib storage bins are also excellent ways to store clothing without a traditional closet.

In Conclusion

The secret to organizing baby clothes is flexibility. Your system will likely change as your baby grows from a swaddled newborn into a busy toddler.

Whether you use color-coded hangers, drawer dividers, or simple baskets, the best method is the one you can maintain easily. Start small, label everything, and don’t be afraid to purge items that no longer fit. With these tips, you will spend less time folding laundry and more time enjoying your little one. Feedback: Was This Article Helpful? 👍 👎 Thank You For Your Feedback! Share Pin Thank You For Your Feedback! What Did You Like? Informative Easy to Understand Engaging Submit What Went Wrong? Inaccurate Missing Information Outdated Submit