The Ultimate Guide to Baby Rompers: Styles, Sizing & When to Use Them

Why Rompers Are a Must-Have for Baby Wardrobes

If you’ve ever found yourself staring blankly at a baby clothes rail wondering what exactly is a romper? or how many does one baby actually need?, you’re in good company. Rompers might just be the most versatile piece in your baby’s wardrobe – but they come in all shapes, sizes and styles, and it’s not always obvious what to choose.

Whether you’re packing your hospital bag shopping for a first birthday gift, or dressing a tiny preemie for the NICU, here’s your complete guide to baby rompers: what they are, when to use them, and how to choose the right one.

What Is a Baby Romper?

A romper is a one-piece outfit that covers the torso and usually the legs – sometimes with sleeves, sometimes sleeveless, sometimes footless, sometimes not. Think of it as a cosy, functional all-in-one that eliminates the need for fiddly separates. They can be used as sleepwear, daywear, layering pieces or standalone outfits.

At Lottie & Lysh, we like to think of rompers as the unsung heroes of the baby wardrobe. Easy to dress, easy to wash, and soft against sensitive skin.

Charlotte Stokes

When Should Babies Wear Rompers?

1. From Day One
Rompers are perfect for newborns. Our preemie and newborn styles come in front-opening designs to make dressing easier and less disruptive in those early days. Footless rompers are NICU-friendly, while integrated mitts and feet help regulate temperature and prevent scratching.

2. For Play & Tummy Time
A soft, flexible romper is perfect for movement. Our cotton elastane blends stretch and recover with every wriggle. No pinching waistbands, no awkward fastenings. Just space to grow, crawl, roll, and do all the wiggly things babies love.

3. As Everyday Outfits
Whether you opt for a statement print or neutral layering piece, rompers are your easy, all-in-one solution for getting dressed in five seconds flat. Add socks and a cardigan if needed – or just let the outfit speak for itself.

4. As Sleepwear
Many parents use rompers as pyjamas, especially in milder seasons. Breathable fabrics like organic cotton help regulate your baby's temperature while they sleep. Our swaddle-friendly fits make them an ideal base layer.

Styles of Baby Rompers

- Footed Rompers: Great for colder months or when you want to avoid socks being kicked off. Often used for newborns.

- Footless Rompers: Provide better access for medical monitoring in NICU or hospital settings. Also allow room for growing feet!

- Sleeveless Rompers: Ideal for summer or layering. Great under pramsuits or cardigans.

- Long Sleeve Rompers: Cosier for cooler days. Our long sleeve styles often feature turn-up cuffs to make them last longer.

- Knotted Gown Rompers: These hybrid styles are loved by NICU nurses and parents alike. Gentle, quick to change, and so soft you’ll wish you could wear one too.

What to Look For in a Good Baby Romper

• Soft, certified fabrics like OEKO-TEX or GOTS cotton

• Thoughtful details like integrated mitts or envelope necklines

• Ethical production that supports slow fashion

• Style options to suit your baby’s personality (and yours!)

• Sizing options including premature and custom sizes

How Many Rompers Do You Really Need?

Honestly, it depends. For a newborn, you’ll likely rotate between 6 to 10 depending on how often you do laundry. If your baby is in hospital or prone to reflux, you may go through more in a day. Our customers often start with a few staples, then come back for statement prints once they know their favourites.

Our Favourite L&L Rompers (Available in Preemie Size Too!)

• Premature Baby Clothes Collection – with footless and footed options

• Monochrome Collection – statement black and white prints for bold babes

• Custom Orders – choose your fabric, your fit, and make it yours

Wrap Them in Comfort (and Cuteness)
At Lottie & Lysh, our rompers are handmade with love in Cornwall using only the softest, kindest materials. Whether your baby is tiny or toddling, we believe in comfort-first designs that let them move, rest and grow with ease.

Discover your next favourite outfit in our collection today.