Although the differences between size 5 and 5T may seem ambiguous, there is some subtle contrast that matters. They include size differences, intended age range, pants and shirt specifications, diaper space, etc.
As this system is used in the USA, people looking for toddler clothing have most likely faced this dilemma. The issue becomes confusing when you see toddler sizes from 2T-5T as well as separate sizes such as 4 and 5. This article will shed light on the few delicate differences between 5 and 5T.
What is Size 5T?
Going into a toddler’s cloth store, you will see a “T” added next to the size number, such as 2T, 3T, 4T, or 5T. The “T” next to the number refers to “toddler”. 5T is a specific clothing size for toddlers which is the largest size in the toddler series of clothing. This specific size fits children that are 5 years of age.
In general, 5T is for children that are around 41-43.5 inches tall and 38-44 pounds in weight. If your toddler’s measurements are a bit above or below these figures, you may have to use size 5 or 4T, respectively.
The Difference Between Size 5 and 5T
In this section, we will discuss the differences between size 5 and 5T by dividing the topic into some rational sub-points.
1. Age Range
The major difference and key to setting these two sizes apart lie in the fact that the 5T might be more appropriate for smaller children. That is why mothers claim that 5T clothes fit their children sooner than size 5 cloth.
Size 5 and 5T may seem fairly similar, but there are subtle differences that people often find hard to catch on. 5T is specifically for toddlers, whereas size 5 specifies the scale for older children ranging from young ones to adolescents or around the age of 4-14 years.
2. Size Measurements
Hence, the overlap between the two sizes is evident. However, the measurements are slightly different. 5T is specified for toddlers 41-43.5 inches in height and 38-42lbs in weight. On the other hand, size 5 is for children 45-47” in height and 42-46lbs in weight.
3. Pants and Shirts Specifications
In general, when it comes to shirts and tops, size 5 clothes have slightly longer sleeves compared to size 5T. As for the 5T pants, they usually have an adjustable elastic waist. The pants with size 5 do not have that feature. As a result, you may have to buy a belt if you decide to choose a size 5 pair of pants.
4. Diaper Space
Another notable difference is that you will see some 5T clothes having space in the bum for diapers. Although, this is normally the case for much T-size clothing. Also, 5T trousers might be easier to accommodate around the waist which allows the mother to have an easier time.
It is possible for a toddler who still uses diapers to use a size 5. However, there is hardly any guarantee that every size 5 would have that extra diaper space.
When to Buy New Clothes
Long story short, if you see your child’s wrists and ankles have grown out of their long sleeves and pants, it’s time to buy new clothes. You may also see your child having a hard time taking their shirt off. More signs include their underwear peeking out of the top of their pants.
When the weather is changing from cool to warm, instead of treating the 5T items as part of the wardrobe, you can change the way they are worn. You can make use of pants that still fit at the waist but end at the calf as capris. Also, dresses that have become short but aren’t tight on the shoulders and chest can be worn with leggings.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
- What Size Comes After 5T?
After 5T, comes the size 6. Although, some parents tend to buy regular size 5 clothing once their child is potty-trained. This is because a size 6 is much larger than 5T and might be too big for the children.
- When can my child start wearing 5 T-size clothes?
Normally, a regular-sized child can start wearing 5T clothes when they are 5 years old. However, children can vary in size regardless of their ages. For a child fairly small in stature at this age, you may very much have to consider 4T size or even size 4 clothing. Likewise, some 4-year-olds might already be eligible for 5T clothes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right clothing for your children is not easy. The task becomes even harder with the confusing size system in the USA. On the surface, there is not much to separate 5 and 5T, except a few inches. However, it is best to get something that fits perfectly or is a bit bigger.
Leave a Reply