Onesie vs. Babygrow — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 24, 2024
Onesie is a casual, one-piece garment for elders and children, typically used for lounging, while a babygrow, also known as a onesie, is specifically designed for babies with features like snap buttons for easy diaper changes.
Difference Between Onesie and Babygrow
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A onesie is a versatile garment that can be worn by people of all ages, designed for comfort and ease, typically made from soft materials like cotton or fleece. Whereas, a babygrow is specifically tailored for infants, incorporating practical elements such as snap buttons at the crotch and sometimes the entire length, facilitating quick and easy diaper changes.
Onesies for older children often serve as loungewear or sleepwear, coming in a variety of styles and sometimes featuring hoods and footies. On the other hand, babygrows are essential baby wear, often designed with long sleeves and covered feet to keep the baby warm and snug.
While onesies can feature a range of designs, including patterns, prints, and even thematic elements like superhero costumes, babygrows are more focused on functionality but still come in many cute and playful designs, which make them ideal for baby’s comfort and parent’s convenience.
The term "onesie" is sometimes used generically in different regions to refer to any one-piece sleepwear or casual wear for children and elders. Conversely, "babygrow" is a term more commonly used in the UK, specifically referring to the type of onesie worn by babies.
Comparison Chart
Age Group
All ages, primarily adults and kids
Infants
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Primary Use
Loungewear, sleepwear
Baby wear, comfort and practicality
Design Features
May include hoods, footies
Snap buttons, covered feet
Material
Cotton, fleece, others
Soft, baby-friendly materials
Popularity
Global, varied uses
Primarily in the UK, for infants
Compare with Definitions
Onesie
A one-piece casual garment for children and elders, usually long-sleeved and covering the legs.
She wore a fleece onesie to the sleepover.
Babygrow
Primarily functional, aimed at providing comfort and ease for both baby and caregiver.
The snap buttons on the babygrow make diaper changes so much easier at night.
Onesie
In adult fashion, a statement piece that combines comfort with playful designs.
Her unicorn onesie was a hit at the family reunion.
Babygrow
A one-piece garment for babies, usually with long sleeves and a snap-buttoned crotch for easy diaper changes.
The babygrow she chose had adorable bear prints on it.
Onesie
Sometimes used to describe similar garments for pets.
They got a matching onesie for their dog to wear on Christmas.
Babygrow
Designed to cover a baby’s feet and legs, often made of soft, hypoallergenic materials.
Their newborn wears a cotton babygrow to sleep comfortably.
Onesie
A type of comfy sleepwear made from soft materials like cotton.
She prefers wearing a cotton onesie in winter because it keeps her warm.
Babygrow
Frequently features cute and appealing designs suitable for babies.
They gifted him a babygrow with a funny slogan on the front.
Onesie
A loose-fitting one-piece leisure garment for elders, often including a hood and sometimes foot covers.
He bought a superhero onesie for the costume party.
Babygrow
Sometimes referred to as a "onesie" in regions outside the UK.
In some countries, a babygrow is simply called a onesie.
Onesie
A loose-fitting one-piece leisure garment covering the torso and legs
I'd had a bath and was in my onesie ready to settle down for yet another reality TV marathon
Babygrow
A babygrow, babygro, sleepsuit, or sleep suit in British English is a one-piece item of baby clothing with long sleeves and legs used for sleep and everyday wear. They are typically made from cotton and closed with snaps, although they may also be made from fleece or closed with zips.
Onesie
A one-piece close-fitting lightweight garment worn by a young child, usually having sleeves but leaving the legs uncovered and fastening with press studs at the crotch.
Babygrow
Alternative form of babygro
Onesie
Name given to a number of one-piece attires
Onesie
(US) A one-piece garment for an infant or small child, generally worn over a diaper.
Onesie
One-piece fashionable streetwear worn mostly by teenagers.
Common Curiosities
Can babygrows be used for toddlers?
Babygrows are primarily designed for infants, though similar styles can be found for toddlers under different names like "toddler onesies."
What is a babygrow?
A babygrow is a type of onesie specifically designed for babies, featuring practical elements like snap buttons for easy diaper changes.
What materials are used for onesies?
Onesies are usually made from materials like cotton, fleece, or a blend that provides comfort and ease.
What materials are used for babygrows?
Babygrows are typically made from soft, baby-friendly materials like cotton, often hypoallergenic to suit sensitive skin.
How do babygrows facilitate diaper changes?
Babygrows often have snap buttons at the crotch, making it easier to change diapers without fully undressing the baby.
Are babygrows a practical gift for new parents?
Yes, babygrows make a practical and thoughtful gift for new parents, offering convenience and comfort for the baby.
Where is the term "babygrow" commonly used?
The term "babygrow" is predominantly used in the UK.
Do both onesies and babygrows come in gender-neutral options?
Yes, both garments are available in gender-neutral designs, making them suitable for all babies and children.
Can onesies be worn outside?
Yes, onesies can be worn outside, especially those designed as costumes or for special events like festivals.
What are the most popular designs for babygrows?
Popular designs for babygrows include animal prints, floral patterns, and cartoon characters.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.