Best Slippers for Kids

Buying guide for Best Slippers for Kids

Kids love to feel cosy, especially when it’s time to relax at home. While finding the right loungewear and pyjamas is easy, ensuring your children have slippers they adore can be a bit trickier.

Children’s slippers are quite similar to adult versions. They are crafted from soft, comfortable materials designed to keep feet warm, while being flexible enough for plenty of wiggling. Many kids’ slippers also feature nonslip outsoles to ensure safety on smooth flooring like hardwood and tile.

Another important factor for children’s slippers is their design. Since they are tailored for kids, they often come in vibrant colours and charming embellishments, such as ears or pom-poms. Some even feature popular characters from beloved shows and movies.

With so many options available, selecting the right pair can feel overwhelming. To simplify your decision, we have compiled a buying guide covering the essential features and styles to consider.

Key Considerations

Sizing

Slippers for kids are generally categorised into toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes. Toddler sizes accommodate children aged one to four, while little kid sizes are designed for ages four to eight. Big kid sizes are for children aged eight and older until they transition into adult sizes.

Finding the right size can sometimes be challenging, as many slippers are sold on a small-medium-large scale. We recommend measuring your child’s feet and comparing those dimensions to the slipper’s outsole for a proper fit.

It’s common for slippers to be slightly larger to accommodate growth spurts, but overly large slippers can present safety hazards. As always, avoid slippers that feel too tight or snug, as they won’t be comfortable and will quickly be outgrown.

Indoor vs. Indoor/Outdoor Slippers

Slippers are typically divided into two categories: indoor and indoor/outdoor. Indoor slippers usually have soft, sock-like outsoles that are not designed for outdoor use. They often lack the structural support that allows children to walk safely on uneven surfaces.

In contrast, indoor/outdoor slippers have outsoles that resemble those of shoes, made from flexible materials like plastic or rubber with treads for improved traction. While they are not as durable as actual shoes, they do provide enough protection for walking on decks or sidewalks.

Choosing Slippers by Season

Parents often seek season-specific slippers to keep their children comfortable during various weather conditions. Cold-weather slippers are usually plush and feature winter-themed designs, crafted from materials like polar fleece, flannel, or shearling.

Finding slippers suitable for warmer weather can be trickier. We recommend opting for slippers made from breathable materials that allow for temperature regulation. Cotton blends are excellent choices, along with lightweight polyester or satin options. Warm-weather slippers frequently have ultra-thin linings or open toes for enhanced airflow.

If your child’s big toe is touching the front of the slipper, it’s a clear indication that they need a larger size.

Features

Cut

Kids’ slippers come in low-cut, mid-cut, and high-cut styles. Low-cut slippers typically end just below the ankle, similar to ballerina slippers or clogs. Mid-cut slippers provide coverage over the ankle, incorporating sock-like and bootie designs, while high-cut slippers can reach the mid-calf and resemble oversized boots or socks, often featuring roll-down cuffs for versatility.

Popular Materials

The most common material used for kids’ slippers is polyester, which can be found in various forms such as faux shearling and woven microfiber. Polyester is not only affordable but also durable and maintains its colour well, even after washing.

Cotton is frequently used in warm-weather slippers due to its lightweight and breathable properties. Some slippers are crafted from cotton terry blends, suitable for use before or after bathing. While cotton withstands washing, it is generally less durable and less colourfast than polyester.

Fleece is a popular choice for cold-weather slippers, known for its ability to retain body heat. Fleece can be soft and flexible or high-pile and fluffy, but requires careful washing to prevent pilling.

Some children’s slippers are made from premium materials like suede, leather, or shearling. Though these options can be more expensive, they can last longer with proper care.

Nonslip Detail

Nonslip features are essential in kids’ slippers, as they significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls. Fortunately, even budget-friendly options tend to include this feature. Indoor/outdoor slippers typically have treads similar to those on shoes, while indoor slippers may have rubber or silicone dots on the soles to enhance grip.

Slippers for Kids: Prices

Prices for children’s slippers range from £10 to £60. The overall quality of construction plays a significant role in pricing, but sometimes a portion of the cost is attributed to brand recognition.

Inexpensive: Budget-friendly options typically cost £15 or less. These often include basic sock-style slippers, which may lack durability.

Mid-range: Slippers in the £20 to £40 bracket offer a variety of styles and materials, including many indoor/outdoor designs. Quality is generally consistent, although some designs may have more refined details.

Expensive: The highest-priced slippers range from £45 to £60 and are usually made by well-known brands using premium materials like suede or shearling, offering durability comparable to regular shoes.

Children with sensitive skin often prefer clog-style slippers as they minimise friction against the Achilles heel, a common issue with regular shoes.

Tips

• Buy an extra pair one size up. It’s wise to purchase a second pair of slippers in a larger size to account for unexpected growth spurts.
• Wash once a week. If your children wear their slippers frequently, washing them weekly or more often if they become dirty is recommended.
• Trim tags carefully. Take care when removing tags from slippers, especially if they are attached between seams, as improper cutting can lead to unraveling.
• Leave a spare pair with a caregiver. Providing a second pair of slippers at a relative’s home can prevent your children from walking barefoot or wearing shoes indoors.

FAQ

Q. What is the best way to clean slippers for kids between machine washes?

A. Spot cleaning is recommended. Unless the slippers are made from shearling, suede, or leather, a diluted mixture of gentle detergent can help remove surface stains. For the soles of indoor/outdoor slippers, using dish soap is often more effective for stubborn dirt.

Q. Why don’t slippers for kids have laces?

A. Slippers for children are typically designed without laces for safety and convenience. Instead, they often secure to the foot with elastic or Velcro, making them easy for kids to put on independently.

Q. How do I keep odors at bay inside slippers?

A. Even breathable slippers can develop foot odours. Some parents use talcum powder or baking soda to neutralise smells, or place odour-absorbing packets inside the slippers when not in use, with charcoal being particularly effective.