From shopping for new fall wardrobes to considering how your routine will change along with the changing weather, preparing your household for a new season begins with the basics. And if you have growing little ones, chances are that what fit them last fall is not going to fit them now. Getting the best fall coat for your toddler is a good way to get started.
Fall coats vary a lot in warmth, price, wearability and style. While the climate where you live should factor into your decision about which coat to purchase, a versatile and excellent option for a multi-season coat is the Columbia Girls’ Benton Springs Fleece Jacket. It’s lightweight yet durable and warm, which makes it a hit with parents and kids alike.
What to know before buying a fall coat for toddlers
Fabric
The single most important factor when purchasing outerwear for your child is the fabric and how appropriate it would be for your climate. If you live in an area where fall seems to come abruptly with cooler temperatures and wind, you should consider a jacket that is lined with a warm inner layer to combat the autumn chill. However, if you live in a warmer climate where fall is more of a slight shift into a rainy season, you probably won’t need to look for heavier material right away.
Fleece is an excellent material for a fall jacket, as it doesn’t feel bulky but is still quite warm. Fleece is also often used as a liner for jackets that have a windbreaker as an outer shell, which is a great combination for children because it provides two layers in one. In warmer climates, jean jackets make a cute and comfortable fall jacket that won’t cause overheating. Plus, it’ll look adorable at the pumpkin patch.
Size and color availability
Fall jackets are a hot-ticket item in mid to late summer with parents hoping to tackle their back-to-school and daycare shopping ahead of the crowd. Don’t miss out on popular choices at current great prices because you believe there’s lots of time. If you’ve found the color and size of a childrens’ jacket you like and it’s currently available, don’t delay in purchasing it. Jackets sell out extremely quickly as parents prepare their late-summer family activities and photoshoots for the new school year.
Fall coat for toddlers features
Pockets
While a toddler won’t need to carry around their wallet or keys in their coat, they love having a place to keep their toys and other treasures found while on the go. Pockets aren’t a necessary addition but they sure are a cute one!
Hoods
In cooler or rainier fall climates, having a hooded jacket is worth considering. Your toddler might not like it but it is still a feature that will help them retain heat. If you select a jean jacket, consider layering a cotton hoodie underneath for a cool playground look that will keep your toddler nice and warm.
Fall coat for toddlers cost
Children’s jackets come in at a relatively inexpensive price point due to their smaller size. A good quality children’s coat will likely run you anywhere from $20-$45 and should be built to withstand heavy use from busy toddlers.
Fall coat for toddlers FAQ
Are toddler jackets machine-washable?
A. Most jackets are machine washable and will wash quite well. To increase the longevity of your toddler’s jacket, always refer to the specific manufacturer’s washing instructions on the tag to prevent dye runs or shrinking. Some jackets are suitable for the dryer, but that’s not always the case. When in doubt, lay your jacket flat to dry.
How long will a jacket last for my growing child?
A. This is a question that comes down to personal preference. Consider first that the sizing changes tremendously from one children’s clothing company to the next. What fits a size 2T from Carter’s may not fit a 2T in the Children’s Place. Once you’ve determined which size applies to your child for which company, ask yourself if you’d rather the clothing fits well today or a few months from now. If you plan on layering underneath the fall jacket you select for your toddler, sizing up is also a good idea.
Which fall coat for toddlers should I get?
Best of the best fall coat for toddlers
Columbia Benton Springs Fleece Jacket: available at Amazon
Our take: This jacket is warm and lightweight, inexpensive, well-made and machine washable.
What we like: The Benton Springs coat features two zippered side pockets for kids to store their treasures, has a collared neck to help keep the wind out, is made of 100% polyester and has a zippered closure.
What we dislike: Consumer feedback indicates there may be some discrepancy with sizing.
Best bang for your buck fall coat for toddlers
Carter’s Simple Joys Puffer Jacket: available at Amazon
Our take: This machine-washable puffer coat comes with a lined hood and a cute pattern that toddlers will love.
What we like: This jacket features a zippered closure, slanted side-pockets, an elastic hem and a warm hood at a great price point.
What we dislike: Reviewers felt the sleeves were a little narrow
Honorable mention fall coat for toddlers
The Children’s Place Basic Denim Jacket: available at Amazon
Our take: Comfortable and classic, this denim jacket is an adorable fall unisex coat that can be worn as a top layer over a fall sweater for extra warmth.
What we like: This coat is a cotton and polyester blend with 2% spandex for elasticity. It is machine washable, inexpensive, stylish and has been stonewashed for a great fall look. It can be dressed up or dressed down and is suitable for varied climates depending on how you layer it.
What we dislike: This coat should be washed prior to use as there may be a slight chemical smell from storage and packaging.
Ashley Britten is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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