Buying guide
Look for loose muslin cotton separates with simple elastic waists and wide, relaxed necklines, like pants, a skort, or a skirt, so a toddler can pull them on without buttons or zippers. Epic's double-layer muslin is pre-washed soft and sewn with flat seams, machine washable cold, with worldwide shipping and 30-day returns.
By Vanessa & Bob, Epic in Bali · Updated 5 November 2026
Around two, most toddlers start wanting to dress themselves, even if it takes three tries to get a leg in the right hole. We look for muslin cotton pieces with elastic waists and loose, stretchy necklines, simple shapes that let a small child succeed without needing help with a zipper or button. Muslin's open weave helps too: it softens with every wash, so pulling a piece on and off doesn't turn into a fight.
An elastic waist means they can pull these up and down on their own, no buttons or belts to fumble with.
The loose muslin cut and relaxed neckline give a small head room to find its way through without getting stuck.
One elastic waistband and no fastenings make this one of the fastest pieces to get right on the first try.
Shorts built into a skirt shape, so climbing into it is as simple as stepping into pants, with the same pull-up waist.
Two matching muslin pieces cut down on the sorting and matching, so their attention goes toward the actual dressing instead of picking an outfit.
Most toddlers start showing interest somewhere between two and three, though every child moves at their own pace. Loose muslin pieces with elastic waists make it easier to practice regardless of the exact age.
Wash it cold on a gentle cycle and skip the fabric softener, then tumble dry low or hang it to dry. Muslin softens more with every wash, so it only gets comfier over time.