From double denim ensembles to character print baby grows, there are so many different clothing styles and patterns available for your child that it can seem fairly overwhelming at times. Shoes and socks are no different.
We know you’ll also want to bundle your little ones in bubble wrap to keep them from harm, but they need to find their feet someday (physically and metaphorically).
However, as convenient and helpful as shoes can be to keep your little one’s feet toasty, they can do more harm to your baby than good. That’s where crib shoes come in.
There is no medical requirement for crib shoes, nor will they directly harm your baby’s health, but they fulfill a variety of practical purposes.
Notably, they will keep your infant’s feet warm in place of a onesie and will add style to any occasion – which also allows you to experiment with their fashion each day.
But do crib shoes present a risk to your baby’s physical health? Can they be trusted? If you want to find out more about crib shoes and their function, read our handy article below.
What Are Crib Shoes?
Crib shoes are soft shoes that are intended for newborns from birth to around 6-9 months old. They are made of a soft bottom and help to prevent your baby’s feet from having to touch the ground.
In addition, crib shoes serve two critical functions during this time: to keep your infant’s feet warm, and as a fashion accessory (we know this sounds ridiculous, but it’s true!)
These shoes aren’t required for safety or medical purposes but are instead purchased and used by parents to keep their baby’s feet warm.
You may choose to purchase your baby a pair of crib shoes if their nursery is cold due to poor insulation or the cold season occurring outside.
Crib Shoes Vs First Walkers
Let’s assume your baby has become quite proficient at walking. It only makes sense to put them in the correct shoes, also known as first walkers.
As their curiosity piques and they begin to explore unfamiliar terrain, it’s necessary to protect their feet as much as is physically possible. But how do they differ from crib shoes?
Crib Shoes
These are soft and do not feature a firm sole.
Perfect foot protection for stationary babies aged up to 6-9 months. Or until they start moving about.
First Walkers
Have a firmer bottom for protection and stability.
Great for young toddlers who have gathered a lot of practice walking.
What To Look For In Crib Shoes
Soft Soles
Arguably the most important thing to look out for regarding crib shoes is the sole. Your child should generally remain in soft shoes with a highly flexible sole until they are at least a year old.
And finding a soft pair that protects your infant as their feet grow is vital. This is because any amount of restriction caused by hard shoes could result in issues with their feet.
So when you’re on the hunt for a pair of crib shoes, make sure they’re as flexible and soft as possible. Simply, the softer, the better!
Style
Making a fashion statement is usually the reason why so many people purchase crib shoes for their infants. So we can’t blame you if you’re also interested in doing this.
If you have several outfits for your child that you think would better suit a pair of shoes instead of just wearing socks, you can match it up to a pair of crib shoes to help maintain comfort. It will look adorable!
What Age Should Your Baby Wear Crib Shoes?
On average, a baby will take its first steps aged between 9-12 months. But don’t be alarmed if they begin walking before or after this point – every baby is different!
Crib shoes, however, are designed for babies in the pre-walking and even pre-crawling stages to protect their feet from their surroundings.
So when your baby begins to crawl and, eventually, walk – it’s a great idea to let them explore barefoot rather than shove a pair of ill-fitting crib shoes on their little feet.
They’re unlikely to harm themselves while walking around in your home (yes, even barefoot), so you have nothing to worry about.
Should Your Baby Wear Crib Shoes?
There isn’t a straightforward answer to this question. It’s completely up to you whether your baby wears crib shoes. It’s an optional step before your infant begins walking, so feel free to dress your infant’s feet to your heart’s content. It won’t do them any harm!
But on the whole, baby shoes don’t have any medicinal benefit for your baby’s feet. If the shoes are inflexible or too hard, there’s a possibility of them being able to restrict your child’s natural food movement.
Plus, they aren’t a magical walking aid – and will not help your child learn to walk in a shorter space of time.
Are Crib Shoes Safe While Sleeping?
There are no proven harmful effects to leaving crib shoes on your baby as they sleep, but we would strongly recommend not leaving them anywhere near them or their crib.
There could be many silent risks associated with this, and it isn’t worth it.
Essentially, there should be nothing extra in the crib of a young child while they are sleeping, including socks, blankets, and toys. Crib shoes are no exception to this rule and should be taken off before your child is settled into bed.
Not only does this prevent the socks from slipping off during the night and becoming a potential choking hazard, but it also reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) occurring in worst-case scenarios.
Top Tip
Don’t risk your baby’s wellbeing by leaving crib shoes on them overnight.
Instead, you should use properly fitted socks or a onesie to keep your newborn’s feet warm. These are safe, warm, and comfortable, and will help to prevent your baby from feeling the cold on their delicate feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Purpose Of Crib Shoes?
These shoes are generally used for children between newborn stage to around 6-9 months of age. Crib shoes are used to keep an infant’s feet warm while playing or roaming around the house.
Many parents also put crib shoes on their babies to make a fashion statement, although this can be achieved in other ways such as purchasing and using patterned baby clothes.
Are Crib Shoes Worth It?
Though they are adorable to look at, crib shoes aren’t worth the potential hassle.
They also don’t have any specific medical benefits for your baby or their growing feet, so you may be better off sticking to trustworthy socks or all-in-one outfits that are both safe and practical for overnight wear.
Is Putting Shoes On Newborns Bad?
Whilst it isn’t “bad”, it simply isn’t necessary to put shoes on your newborn. Unless it is to provide warmth to their feet you shouldn’t concern yourself with putting shoes onto your newborn.
Stick to soft socks if you aren’t sure. This is because a baby needs the space and room for their feet to grow properly.
Our Final Thoughts
Crib shoes are a stylish addition for any small child but they do come with their own set of risks.
They’re soft, usually pretty flexible, and can be matched to any outfit. However, you must remain vigilant at all times whilst your little one is wearing them, especially at night time.
When thinking about clothing, there is so much to consider, such as sizing, the materials used, the quality of the products, and also how ethical they are. There is also the topic of fast fashion and its effects on the environment.
This is why I decided to set up our site Torly Kid, to provide parents and carers with the ultimate guide to everything related to children’s clothing and fashion. From the best outfits for crawling toddlers, to the prettiest dresses for tweens, we’ve got you covered.
