Some of the best kids' slippers are made from superior natural materials like sheepskin and wool; they are durable and keep tiny toes warm. That said, a pair of knitted cotton slipper socks are the ideal choice if your child runs hot or it’s spring or summer.
Anti-slip soles are also an important consideration. Many of us have homes with beautiful wooden or tiled floors on which boisterous toddlers can easily slip while running around playing. The ever helpful users of the Mumsnet forums pointed us in the right direction for safe slipper styles.
We’ve found some cute and fun designs for you too, from adorable elf-style felt boots and tiger moccasins that can be made to roar to bright stripy pom pom slippers and teddy house shoes. Of course, we have some classic designs for older kids too.
1. Best overall slippers for kids: John Lewis & Partners Felt Boot Slippers
Price on writing: £16.00 - £18.00 | Buy now from John Lewis & Partners
Key specs
Material: Upper: 100% polyester, Lining: 100% Polyester, Sole: rubber | Size range: 1 - 13 junior
What Mumsnet users say
“I got these for my daughter for Christmas and they’ve lasted really well. Nice robust quality, not bulky, decent soles.” (Suggested by Mumsnet user MotherWol)
Our verdict
These gorgeous felt slippers are our best house slippers for toddlers and older kids. They are perfect for keeping tiny toes warm and are machine washable. Crafted from dove grey fluffy felt and a super soft faux fur lining, they feel lovely against delicate skin.
The unisex design of these lovely slippers is elf-like and very cute. They also have a cute multi-coloured pom pom detail on the toe. We loved how easy these slippers are to pop on and off, and the high sides provide ankle support.
The anti-slip soles are soft and flat, so they are only suitable for use in the garden in dry weather. They are very robust and will last for as long as they fit.
2. Best budget slippers for kids: H&M Soft Teddy Slippers
Price on writing: £9.99 | Buy now from H&M
Key specs
Material: Lining: Polyester 100% Sole: Polyester 100% Upper: Polyester 100% | Size range: 7 to 3 junior
Our verdict
These Teddy Slippers feel soft and fluffy and will keep your little one’s feet warm this winter. The teddy bear design is charming, but we think they look more like a lion than a teddy! However, they have lots of fab details like a sweet face and a fluffy tail, and this will encourage your child to wear them.
Shark or dinosaur designs are also available, and they come in a wide range of sizes, though consumer reviews suggest they come up small. These fantastic slippers have a smooth and silky velour lining and are easy to slip on and off.
The soft soles make them a slipper that is best for wearing indoors. However, the anti-slip textured padding makes them perfect for energetic children running about on hard floors.
3. Best slip-resistant slippers for kids: UGG Tasman Slippers
Price on writing: £55.00 | Buy now from Flannels
Key specs
Material: Upper: suede; Lining: sheepskin; Sole: rubber | Size range: Child 12 - 4 adult
What Mumsnet users say
“We have had actual UGGs, really good and very reasonable.” (Recommended by SamVinesFavouriteDragon)
Our verdict
UGG Tasman Slippers are a mini version of one of their best-selling designs. They are available in navy, black and chestnut and have a classic slip-on design. We loved the stylish look of these fantastic slippers, and fashion-conscious older kids and teens will happily wear them.
These slippers are expensive, so they are more suited to older children who won’t grow out of their shoes every five minutes! However, they are of exceptional quality and are crafted from soft suede, plush sheepskin and pure wool. They will last long enough to be passed down to siblings if looked after.
4. Best slipper socks for kids: JoJo Maman Bébé Highland Cow Slipper Socks
Price on writing: £12.00 | Buy now from JoJo Maman Bébé
Key specs
Material: Upper: textile; Lining: textile; Sole: leather | Size range: Six months to four years
What Mumsnet users say
“Last year I got my son a slipper sock from JoJo Maman Bébé. I was really happy with them as they were socks above the ankles but had a thick sole with grips and no chance of coming off unless my son was sitting with his feet above his face pulling them off.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user takenbywine)
These Highland Cow Slipper Socks from JoJo Maman Bébé are the best non-slip slippers for toddlers, thanks to the sturdy, textured sole. These are the ideal option if you have toddlers who like to run around on hardwood floors.
Made from soft, knitted cotton, these brilliant slipper socks feel comfortable to wear and keep feet warm while letting them breathe. The snug, elasticated top will keep the socks from rolling down without feeling too tight.
We loved the cute look of these slipper socks. Both boys and girls will enjoy the navy and white stripe and attractive highland cow design. We were also impressed that the cotton is sustainably sourced.
5. Best slipper for kids who get cold feet: Sheepers Slipkit Boot Slippers
Price on writing: £35.00 | Buy now from Not On The High Street
Key specs
Material: Sheepskin | Size range: Toddler 7 - 3 Junior
Our verdict
Sheepers Sheepskin Boot Slippers are the best warm slippers for toddlers and older kids alike. They are lovingly crafted from insulating yet breathable soft sheepskin and merino wool, which work hard to keep small feet toasty.
These fantastic slippers are fun and cosy; they come with stickers that your youngsters can colour in and then use to decorate their house shoes precisely as they want. The durable vinyls have fun themes; dinosaurs, galaxies, fairies, vehicles and animals.
Sheepers Slippers come in a wide range of toddler and child sizes (they also make adult slippers), and there’s a variety of bright colours and patterns to choose from. We loved the anti-waste ethos of the brand; all the packaging is printed with fun puzzles and activities.
6. Best slippers for older boys: Marks & Spencers Star Slippers
Price on writing: £11.00 | Buy now from M&S
Key specs
Material: Upper: textile; Lining and Sock: textile; Outsole: textile & other materials | Size range: 13 small - 7 large
Our verdict
Marks and Spencers make the best slippers for older children who prefer a more subtle design, and these Navy Star Slippers are a fantastic example. They are great value, fully machine washable and keep feet warm and comfortable.
These classic, pull-on slippers are made from a soft velour upper, squishy, super-comfy memory foam inner and soft soles that are anti-slip and won’t mark or scuff the floor.
It’s worth noting that these fab slippers are made from vegan-friendly materials, and they are durable enough to last until they have been grown out of. In addition, they come in a wide range of sizes.
7. Best slippers for older girls: Skyrocket Slipper Boots
Price on writing: £16.95 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Material: Outer Material: textile; Inner Material: synthetic fur; Sole; synthetic | Size range: 11 child to 5 adult
Our verdict
The bright, cheerful colours of these Skyrocket Slipper Boots will delight your child and make sure they’ll be found quickly in the shoe cupboard. They are super comfortable with springy and soft memory foam inner soles and a cosy faux fur lining.
These fantastic slippers are boot-shaped, so keep the legs warm, and the feet and the high sides also provide ankle support. Unlike some boot styles, these slippers are easy to pull on and off, and they come in a wide range of sizes from child to adult.
We adored the stripy pattern, also available in light pink and jewel colours, the fluffy cuffs and the double pom pom. These slippers are stylish as well as fabulous for cold winter days.
8. Best supportive slippers for toddlers: Matalan Dinosaur Full Slippers
Price on writing: £5.00 | Buy now from Matalan
Key specs
Material: Upper: Other; Lining Sock: textile; Sole: other | Size range: Infants 4 - 12
Our verdict
Matalan’s Dinosaur Slippers are excellent value; the high sides provide superior ankle support and a robust yet flexible anti-slip rubber sole. They are also very sturdy.
These fantastic slippers have an adjustable fit thanks to the riptape strap. This handy feature also means that they are virtually impossible for toddlers to take off by themselves so that toes will stay warm and protected.
The teal dinosaur design is very cute, your little one will love stamping around in them, and there are lovely pyjamas that match too.
9. Best toddler slippers that stay on: John Lewis & Partners Panda Slippers
Price on writing: £12.00 - £13.00 | Buy now from John Lewis & Partners
Key specs
Material: Upper: cotton and synthetic; Sole: rubber | Size range: 3 to 9 junior
What Mumsnet users say
“John Lewis ones are a bit pricey but have Velcro straps, aren’t dangerously bulky and have nice designs. They wear well enough to pass down.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Steppingonrakes)
Our verdict
John Lewis & Partners have an excellent selection of kids’ slippers, and these panda boots are some of the cutest. The rip-tape fastening also means that once on, they will remain securely in place and that the fit can be adjusted to suit the size and shape of your toddler’s feet.
The grey and cream panda design is lovely and would be perfect for a girl or a boy. Don’t let the light colours put you off; these practical slippers are fully machine washable at 40°C.
We were impressed with the durable and sturdy rubber sole that will prevent your little one from slipping as they rampage merrily around the house.
10. Best fun kids slippers: Joules Slippet Felt Mules
Price on writing: £19.95 | Buy now from Joules
Key specs
Material: Textile | Size range: XS - XL
Our verdict
These beautiful child’s slippers from Joules have a delightful tiger design; he can even be made to roar! They are also available in dinosaur and rocket designs, all suitable for both boys and girls.
The soft soles have a textured puff print, so your child will stay upright on hardwood, laminate or tiled floors, even if they are dashing around. They are super soft and cosy too; the faux fur lining is so snuggly.
These slippers are made lovingly from high-quality materials. The elasticated backs keep them on little feet without feeling too tight and are also easy to pull on and off.
What to look for in kids' slippers
Warmth: Keeping tiny toes warm is essential, especially in winter. Look for slippers that are made from soft and snuggly sheepskin or have a faux fur lining. An enclosed boot or slipper sock will also warm the legs as well as the feet.
Type of sole: A soft sole will suffice if your child is wearing their slippers indoors and on carpets. They will also be more cosy than hard-soled slippers, which provide more traction and work better if you have hard floors or they wear them in the garden.
Anti-slip: Tiled, laminate and hardwood floors can be slippy, so look for stiff rubber soles that provide traction or soft soles with a textured base.
Ankle support: Toddlers can be clumsy, so a high-sided slipper in sturdy fabric is a good idea. They will provide ankle support and general stability.
Lining: A slipper with a lining will provide more insulation, cushioning and support. Likely, they will also last longer. However, if your child gets hot quickly or you’re entering the warmer summer months, an unlined slipper will be cooler, lightweight and provide extra breathability.
Fit: Slippers can have a variety of sizing systems; they might range from XS-XL, have specific shoe sizes or be designed to fit one or two sizes. If you’re unsure, most manufacturers will provide a size guide that allows you to choose based on measurements in inches.
Fun: A cute or fun design will look adorable and encourage your child to wear their new slippers. However, don’t be tempted to buy the massive fluffy animal slippers that will make your youngster's feet unpleasantly hot just because they are funny.
Don’t fall off: If your toddler is constantly pulling their slippers off or falling off when they are playing, choose slippers with robust rip tape fastening around the ankles.
Should my child wear non-slip slippers?
Yes, if your home has hardwood, laminate or tiled floors, a pair of slippers with a non-slip sole is an excellent idea. The soft textured base or sturdy rubber sole will keep your little ones upright as they charge around the house.
How often should I replace my kids' slippers?
Your child will likely grow out of their slippers before they need replacing. This is especially true of toddlers and young children whose feet grow super-quick.
If your child wears their slippers outside, for example, to play in the garden, they may wear out quicker, especially if they have soft soles.
Wear and tear of the inside of slippers is possible too. For example, if your child loves running around the house and lots of active play, the inner soles may become dislodged. Similarly, a child who gets hot, sweaty feet may need a fresh pair of slippers sooner rather than later as they might be stinky.
If your child’s slippers get too tight or stretch, so they fall off, develop holes in the toes or soles, or the inner sole becomes rumpled and uncomfortable, it’s time to replace them.
Which kids' slippers will last the longest?
Children’s feet grow fast! So in terms of time, most slippers only need to last six months. However, remember that a comfy pair of slippers will be worn daily, and once your child gets older, their feet will grow slower, so invest in a pair of slippers that will last for at least a year.
Seek out slippers made from high-quality materials that will last, such as sheepskin, leather and wool. Stiff rubber soles are also good if worn on hard floors or outside in the garden.
The verdict: Best kids’ slippers
We picked John Lewis & Partners Felt Boot Slippers as our best kids’ slippers of 2022. They have an adorable, unisex design, will encase your child’s feet in warmth and softness and are excellent quality, so they will last as long as you need them to.
How we chose our recommendations
Because we know there’s nothing like a genuine recommendation from a parent, we first headed to the Mumsnet forums to find out which kids’ slippers discerning Mumsnet users had bought for their families. Next, we compiled a list of the slippers they recommended for comfort and durability.
We then researched the wider web, looking at which kids' slippers had won accolades or been featured in ‘best buy’ lists across websites and print media and what customer reviews said about them. Then, having collated all that information, we picked the children’s slippers and slipper socks we thought would keep small feet warm, protected and comfy this winter.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. Our writer, Gemma, is a mother of two children, Jasmine and Liam, so she knows the importance of high-quality, durable kids' slippers that keep small feet warm, comfortable and protected.
Gemma also has a home with tiled and hardwood floors, so she understands how essential it is to choose childs’ slippers with a robust, anti-slip sole and ankle support. Breathability and a fun design that encourages the child to wear their slippers are critical considerations too.
We considered each recommendation carefully, scrutinising each pair's durability, sustainability and value for money to bring you the best kids’ slippers of 2022.
