Dolls Size: What Are the Different Sizes of Dolls?

January 19, 2023January 13, 2024 by Marie

Anyone who has ever shopped for dolls knows that there can be a lot of confusion when it comes to understanding dolls size. Dolls are generally classified by height, with the most common size categories being “mini” or “standard.”

However, within these categories, there can be significant variation in terms of body proportions and overall size. As a result, it’s important to understand doll sizes before making a purchase.

Dolls Size: What Are the Different Sizes of Dolls? size-charts.com — _{Image Source: The New York Times}

This guide will address doll sizes and the different sizes of dolls out here.

Jump right into the Frequently Asked Questions

Dolls Size Table of Contents

Dolls size charts
Important considerations that go hand in hand with doll size
What are the different sizes of dolls?
Frequently Asked Questions

Dolls size chart

Doll Size	Tall (inches)	cm	Chest (inches)	cm	Waist (inches)	cm	Hips (inches)	cm	Neck circumference (inches)	cm	Head circumference (inches)	cm
Large Baby Dolls	19 – 23	48.2 – 58.4	16.5	41.91	16.5	41.91	17.5	44.45	8.5	21.59	15	38.1
Medium Baby Dolls	14 – 16	35.5 – 40.6	13	33.02	12.5	31.75	13	33.02	8	20.32	12.5	31.75
Small Baby Dolls	12	30.48	12	30.48	11	27.94	11.5	29.21	7	17.78	11.75	29.845
Mini Baby Dolls	8	20.32	7	17.78	4.75	12.065	4.75	12.065	3.5	8.89	6.25	15.875

Important considerations that go hand in hand with doll size

One of the most important considerations when it comes to doll size is compatibility with clothing and accessories. Most dolls are designed to wear clothes that are sized appropriately for their height and body proportions. However, if a doll is too small or too large for its clothing, it can look unnatural or even silly. For this reason, it’s important to make sure that the doll you choose is the right size for the clothes and accessories you plan to buy.

Another important consideration when it comes to doll size is the amount of space you have available for storage. Larger dolls can take up quite a bit of space, so if you’re tight on room, it’s probably best to stick with a smaller option. Conversely, if you have plenty of space to spare, you may want to consider a larger doll that will be more impressive and fun to play with.

Ultimately, the best way to understand dolls size is to simply take some time to browse the options and get a feel for what’s out there. For example, some dolls are designed to fit in a child’s hand, while others are life-sized.

Additionally, doll sizes can vary based on the type of doll, such as baby dolls, fashion dolls, or action figures. In addition, larger dolls can be more expensive than their smaller counterparts. Therefore, it’s important to consider the size of the doll when making your purchase.

What are the different sizes of dolls?

There are about four most common types of doll sizes:

1. Mini baby dolls

Mini-baby dolls are the smallest type of doll, typically measuring less than 10 inches in height. They are often used as teethers or for younger children who are still learning to play with dolls. They are usually less than 10 inches tall, and they often have detailed features such as realistic hair and clothes.

Mini-baby dolls can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, cloth, and porcelain. While they are often given as gifts to young children, some adults also collect mini-baby dolls. In addition to their small size, mini-baby dolls are often distinguished from regular dolls by their lack of movable limbs.

This makes them more fragile than other types of dolls, and it also means that they cannot be posed in different positions. As a result, mini-baby dolls are typically displayed in one position, such as sitting or lying down.

2. Small baby dolls

Small baby dolls are slightly larger than mini dolls, typically measuring between 10 and 15 inches in height. They are perfect for small children who want a doll that is easy to carry around and that fits well in their arms.

Their proportions are similar to that of a real newborn baby, which makes them ideal for cuddling and cradling. These dolls are also lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for young children. In addition, their small size makes them perfect for playrooms or nurseries with limited space.

3. Medium baby dolls

Medium baby dolls are the most popular size of a doll, typically measuring between 16 and 20 inches in height. They are perfect for children who want a doll that they can dress up and take care of, but that is not too big or bulky.

While they are not as small and lightweight as the first two sizes, they are still small enough to be easily carried around and played with by most young children. In addition, size medium baby dolls often have more detailed features than smaller dolls, making them more realistic and lifelike.

As a result, they can be a great option for children who are looking for a doll that is both fun to play with and realistically sized.

4. Large baby dolls

Large baby dolls are the largest type of doll, typically measuring more than 20 inches in height. They are often used as teaching aids for older children who are learning how to take care of a baby.

They are designed to look like real babies, with lifelike features such as soft skin, realistic hair, and working mouths. Some large baby dolls can even cry, giggle, and wet their diapers. These features make them hugely popular with children of all ages, who love to cuddle and care for them. Large baby dolls are also popular with adults, who use them for everything from stress relief to practicing their parenting skills.

Learn more about different doll sizes (video)

_{Doll Scale: What Do 1/12, 1/8, 1/6, 1/4, & 1/3 Mean? by Muñecas, Poupees, and Dolls}

Frequently Asked Questions

How are dolls size measured?

Most manufacturers use a similar system of measurements. The height of the doll is typically measured from the top of the head to the bottom of the feet, and the width is measured from one side of the body to the other.

The depth of the doll is usually measured from front to back, excluding any limbs that protrude from the body. These three dimensions can then be used to calculate the volume of the doll, which provides a more accurate way to compare different sizes.

What scale are 16-inch dolls size?

The vast majority of 16-inch dolls are made to a 1:6 scale, meaning that they are one-sixth the size of a real human. This scale is also sometimes referred to as a half-scale or half-size doll. It is important to note that there is some variation in doll sizes, and some manufacturers may produce dolls that are slightly larger or smaller than 16 inches.

However, the 1:6 scale is the most common size for this type of doll. In addition to their small size, 16-inch dolls typically have articulated joints that allow them to be posed in a variety of different positions. This makes them popular among both children and adults who enjoy playing with dolls or collecting them.

What size are baby dolls?

As we’ve just seen from the question on the different doll sizes, baby dolls actually come in a wide range of sizes, from small enough to fit in the palm of your hand to life-size replicas. The most popular size for baby dolls is around 16-18 inches, which is a similar size to an average newborn baby. This size is large enough to be cuddled and played with, but small enough to be easily portable.

However, there are also many people who prefer larger or smaller baby dolls. Some people prefer smaller dolls because they are easier to take care of and store, while others prefer larger dolls because they are more realistic. Ultimately, the perfect size for a baby doll is the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Here are some interesting baby doll options you might want to look at:

American Girl dolls are 18 inches tall and are designed to look like “real” girls. They have a wide range of accessories and clothing available, and many girls collect them.
Barbie dolls are 11.5 inches tall and were first released in 1959. They are one of the most popular doll brands in the world, and their iconic look has been imitated by many other dolls.
Bratz dolls are 10 inches tall and were first released in 2001. They have large heads and eyes, and their fashion-forward style has been controversial among some parents.
Monster High dolls are 13 inches tall and were first released in 2010. They are inspired by classic monster movies, and their unique look has made them popular with tweens and teens.
My Little Pony is 6 inches tall and was first released in 1983. They have long manes and tails, and their cute faces make them popular with younger girls.
Polly Pocket dolls are 2 inches tall and were first released in 1989. They can be carried around in their own little pockets, which has made them popular as travel toys for kids on the go.

What size is a 1/24 scale doll?

A 1/24 scale doll is a doll that is 1/24th the size of a real person. This means that if a real person is 24 inches tall, then a 1/24 scale doll would be 1 inch tall. This scale is often used for dolls and other collectibles. It is also sometimes used for model trains and other toys. The 1/24 scale is about the same size as the standard Barbie doll.

This makes it a popular choice for children’s toys and playthings. dolls in this scale are also sometimes used in dioramas or other display pieces. They can add a realistic touch to these displays without taking up too much space.

Which is a bigger 1/12 scale or a 1/6 scale doll?

1/6 scale dolls are larger than 1/12 scale dolls. This is because 1/6 scale dolls are meant to represent humans at a ratio of six to one, while 1/12 scale dolls represent humans at a ratio of 12 to one.

As a result, 1/6 scale dolls tend to be around twice the size of 1/12 scale dolls. Of course, this is just a general trend – you’ll need to measure the dolls in question yourself to get an accurate idea of their size comparison.

Plus size barbie doll

In 2016, Mattel released a line of Barbie dolls with diverse body types, and in 2018, they introduced a line of dolls with disabilities. Now, Mattel is expanding its diverse doll offerings even further with the release of plus-size Barbie dolls.

These dolls are designed to better reflect the bodies of real women and girls, and they come in a variety of different styles. Plus-size Barbie dolls are an important step forward in increasing representation for all women and girls.

Conclusion

Though their exact origins are unknown, dolls have been used for centuries as playthings, teaching tools, and objects of veneration. Today, there is a vast array of different dolls available, from simple rag dolls to intricate collectibles. Whatever their form, dolls continue to captivate the imaginations of people of all ages. They are more than just mere toys; for many, they represent an important part of childhood.

Through play, children can learn about empathy and caring for others. Dolls can also serve as a comforting presence during times of grief or transition. For adults, meanwhile, dolls can be a fun way to express creativity or simply relax and unwind. Whether treasured as a cherished childhood memory or enjoyed in the present moment, dolls bring joy into the lives of people around the globe.

But for you to get the most out of dolls, you must always think about what you want to achieve with the doll, then take the time to find the correct size. It’s our hope that this doll sizes guide will make things much simpler for you going forward and that you will now be able to find the perfect doll size. Please ask any questions you have via the comments section and thanks for reading.

Picture in this post is by Tapio Haaja on Unsplash