No matter the seasons, cardigans are perfect for layering and a clothing [essential]{href='https://www.motherandbaby.com/first-year/products/baby/the-best-baby-clothes-for-newborns' } that you can slip on when there’s a chill in the air. That’s why we think they’re essential for your baby too.
Easier to slip on than jumpers, baby cardigans are perfect for keeping your little one warm, wrapped up, and cosy all year round and come in a full range of cute, colourful, and charming designs that we’re frankly quite jealous of!
We’ve found the best baby cardigans to buy that are comfy and guaranteed to keep them snuggled in style. We’ve included chunky knit cardigans for the colder seasons, breathable cotton cardigans when they just need that little bit of extra warmth, and lightweight cardigans for lightly layering or dressing up a t-shirt or dress.
Kids cardigans for your little one
www.marksandspencer.com
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Available in dusky pink, grey marl, beige, ivory, and dark indigo, this chunky knit cardigan will
www.vertbaudet.co.uk
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Whilst it might not be as thick as the other 'thick knit cardigan' options on our list, what makes
www.laredoute.co.uk
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This chunky openwork knit is a responsible option as a STANDARD 100 certified product by OEKO-TEX®
www.next.co.uk
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This bobble effect chunky cardigan, available in blue, ecru, pink, and rust, is a really pretty
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This cable knit cardigan with a three button fastening has been designed to fit small or premature
www.johnlewis.com
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This cable knit cardigan is a cute and cosy choice for your little one made with pure cotton for a
babymori.com
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Available in blue stripe, pink stripe, and grey, this cardigan with popper buttons is a supersoft
www.next.co.uk
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This adorable cardigan features a frill collar and beautiful nature inspired embroidery detail
www.boden.co.uk
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This pretty textured cardigan with sweet stitch detailing and contrast buttons is super soft and a
www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk
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Made with a touch of cashmere for a luxuriously soft feel, this adorable Fair Isle style cardigan
What material is best?
The main materials you'll find for baby cardigans are cotton and acrylic.
Cotton is best for your baby's skin, especially if they're prone to suffer from eczema, guaranteeing softness through the natural fabric.
However, acrylic is great for heat retention and is one of the warmest synthetic materials. This is why many of the thicker knit cardigans are made of acrylic yarn instead of cotton as they'll keep your baby toasty and warm even on the coldest of days.
Both are great options for machine washability so we'd recommend the material based on the purpose of the cardigan - for layering, light warmth, and completing an outfit, choose cotton. For ultimate warmth, we'd recommend acrylic.
How to knit a baby cardigan
Fancy yourself a bit of a whizz with knitting needles? Why not try making your own baby cardigan from scratch?
Knitting your own baby cardigan gives you the freedom to design the cardigan how you wish, make a personalised gift for your baby, or for a friend as a thoughtful handmade baby shower gift.
Don't worry if you're a beginner! Learn how to make your own baby cardigan with this YouTube tutorial from Teo Makes who provides a free pattern and step-by-step guide to creating a V-neck or raglan cardigan.