Snap fasteners for baby and children's clothes are the most practical closure for bodysuits, rompers, sleepsuits and pyjamas – they open in one move, need no buttonholes and make nappy changes quick. For the youngest wearers, though, the requirements are stricter: the metal must be skin-friendly, the snap must hold firmly and the edges must not irritate. Here is what to look for.
Why nickel-free is a must
Nickel is one of the most common causes of contact dermatitis, and a baby's skin is especially sensitive. For children's wear, always pick snaps labelled Nickel Free – they use a nickel-free alloy and coating. Bul-tex stocks many such models, for example the classic SB 0003, the coloured Chico SB 0002 and the 10.5 mm AF-0 mini snaps.
- Check that the lower parts (stud and socket) are nickel-free too, not just the cap.
- Avoid cheap unlabelled snaps – their coating can wear off quickly.
- Nickel-free metal snaps also keep their finish better in hot washes.
4-part snap fasteners 9665 – 12.5 mm Nickel Free
Classic snap fasteners SB 0003 Nickel Free – 4-piece set
Chicco SB 0002 Nickel-Free colorful snap fasteners – 4-piece setProng ring snaps for knits
Most baby clothes are made of knit fabric (interlock, rib, jersey). For these, prong ring snaps work best – instead of a post that punches through, they have a toothed ring that slips between the yarns without cutting them. The fabric does not ladder and the snap does not tear out when stretched. The cap can be an open ring or a closed disc.
For woven fabrics such as poplin, muslin and denim, classic four-part snaps with a solid cap are the right choice.
Recommended sizes
| Garment | Size |
|---|---|
| Newborn bodysuits and leggings | 9–10.5 mm |
| Rompers, pyjamas, clothes for ages 1–3 | 10–12.5 mm |
| Kids' shirts and dresses | 11.5–12.5 mm |
| Kids' jackets and gilets | 15–17 mm |
A smaller diameter suits tiny garments better, but the snap still needs enough grip not to pop open as the child wriggles.
Safe installation
- Reinforce the spot – use a double layer of fabric or a strip of interfacing so the snap cannot pull out.
- Set it with the right tool – a half-closed snap is a hazard because it can come loose.
- Do a pull test – after setting, tug the cap firmly. If it wobbles, replace it.
- Inspect regularly – after washing, check snaps for looseness and sharp edges.
If you prefer something lighter, the Snap 0014 model with a plastic cap in white or black has a softer look and works well on babywear.
Where to place snaps on baby clothes
Placement matters as much as the snap itself. On bodysuits the snaps go at the crotch – usually three snaps 3–4 cm apart. On rompers and sleepsuits they run down the front and along the inside legs so you can change a nappy without fully undressing the baby. Envelope-neck bodysuits do not need shoulder snaps, but on heavier fabrics one or two snaps on the shoulder make it easier to pull the garment over the head.
Set the snaps so the cap faces outwards and the smooth lower part sits against the skin. Avoid spots the baby lies on for long, such as the middle of the back. Keep at least 1 cm from the fabric edge, and make sure the placket holding the snap is two layers thick.
Frequently asked questions
Are snap fasteners safe on newborn clothes?
Yes, as long as they are nickel-free, correctly set and reinforced. They are safer than small sewn-on buttons that a child could pull off.
Do snaps survive washing and tumble drying?
Good-quality metal snaps handle 60 °C washes and drying. Fasten them before washing so they do not catch on other items.
Which colour should I choose?
White, ecru and pastel coloured snaps go best with babywear, while silver is a safe all-rounder.
Pick suitable models from our snap fasteners collection, and to finish children's garments take a look at the elastics and ribbons at Bul-tex.
