Measuring a baby's feet accurately can be a challenge. However, if you want to buy shoes that fit - and especially if you plan to order them online - knowing the correct size is very important. There are several methods that can work well for measuring a baby's feet. Whatever you choose, be sure to put your baby in comfortable socks first.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Draw Outlines of Your Child's Feet
Step 1. Gather equipment
Take two sheets of thick paper and a pencil. Use old paper whenever possible; it will save paper and help protect the environment.
Step 2. Position your baby on the paper
If possible, have someone help you hold your child while he or she stands in the middle of your first piece of paper.
Step 3. Trace the outline of your baby's feet
Make sure your pencil is straight - not at an angle - and trace around the legs with the pencil. Do this about twice so that the resulting lines are as clear as possible.
Step 4. Repeat on the other leg
Using the second piece of paper, repeat the process for the other leg.
Step 5. Cut the line
Carefully cut out the two outlines of the legs from your paper. You will have two paper models of your baby's feet.
Step 6. Use this paper as a reference when you shop
When you go to buy shoes for your baby, tape individual pieces of paper to the bottom of the shoes you want to buy to make sure they are the right size. Ideally, the shoe should be only slightly larger than the paper model.
Method 2 of 4: Measuring Your Baby's Feet with a Tape Measure
Step 1. Get ready to take your baby's measurements
Take a measuring tape or tape measure, and ask someone else to help you keep your child still.
Step 2. Position your baby
Make your baby stand as still as possible (there are others to help minimize baby squirming).
Step 3. Measure your baby's feet
For each foot, place the wide side of the tape measure against the outside, with the tip of the tape measure either at the tip of the big toe or the tip of the heel.
For best results, measure two or three times. Babies wiggle a lot, and it can be difficult to get an accurate measurement
Step 4. Record the measurement results
Write down your measurements, and shop accordingly.
Method 3 of 4: Using a Foot Measuring Meter
Step 1. Read the user manual
Different foot gauges may require slightly different measuring procedures, so start by reading the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 2. Position your child
Have your baby sit on someone else's lap or in a comfortable chair, with his knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
Step 3. Fit the meter to your baby's feet
Make sure your child's heel is in the heel spot on the tape measure. Check that the tape measure is parallel to the floor and that your baby's ankles are also at a 90 degree angle.
Step 4. Measure your baby's foot length
Move the slide on the meter until it touches the tip of your baby's big toe. Record the length measurement shown in the circular hole, which is indicated by black lines on the sides. Add an extra millimeter on the side panel.
For best results, make sure that your baby's toes are not bent. Gently press the finger down against the gauge using your thumb as you measure
Step 5. Determine the width of your baby's feet
Use a width meter to measure. It should be placed automatically on the correct leg. Don't draw too much; if you do, you may end up with a measurement that is too tight. Note the width.
Step 6. Convert the data to shoe size
If you live in the UK or the European Union, simply go to the Clark size calculator online (at https://www.clarks.co.uk/sizecalculator) and enter your details. This site will tell you the correct shoe size to buy.
If you live in the US, convert your measurements to inches, then match them against a children's shoe size chart (such as https://www.healthyfeetstore.com/kids-shoe-sizing-guide-with-sizing-chart.html) to American measurement
Method 4 of 4: Printing a 1:1. Scale Baby Shoe Size Guide
Step 1. Download and print the measurement guide
For UK and Euro sizes, for example, you could use something like this: https://www.mothercare.com/how-to-measure-your-child's-feet/buyersguide-ms-clothing-sub4, default, pg.html.
Make sure the print scale is set to "none" or "100%"
Step 2. Measure the line to the right of "Euro size
To check the accuracy, measure the line on the right. It should be 220 millimeters.
Step 3. Follow the instructions on the sizing guide
Each sizing guide will have its own instructions, but generally, you will have to place your child's foot on the guide and measure from the tip of the big toe.
Step 4. Convert your measurements
Depending on where you live, you may need to convert your measurements to an appropriate size. If, for example, you live in the US but have a UK/Euro size guide, you'll need to translate your measurements to American sizes. There are conversion charts online (for example,
Tips
- No matter how carefully you measure, take the time to check the fit after you put your baby in new shoes. Check width, toe placement, and fit around the ankle.
- If your baby's feet are different sizes, use the larger one to determine the shoe size. It is better to have one shoe that is a little too big than one that is too tight and uncomfortable.
- Babies and children grow very fast. You may want to buy a size slightly larger than necessary so your child can wear the new shoes longer, but don't overdo it: if the shoes are too big, they will feel uncomfortable and awkward walking in them.
