The Sims 4: major base game update adds new clothing category and toddler improvements

Intelligence Summary
- Discover The Sims 4’s major update with new clothing categories, toddler improvements, and gameplay fixes.
The Sims 4: major update for the base game adds new clothing category and toddler improvements
A major update for the base game of The Sims 4 is scheduled for May 12, 2026. The update promises a range of improvements and new features, with a particular focus on toddlers and infant gameplay, alongside 150 bug fixes.
What’s new?
The most notable addition is the new clothing category, “Base Layer,” which will let players combine underwear such as camisoles, bras, and binders with other outfits. In total, 14 new Base Layer items are being added, including 8 adult variants, 4 for children, and 2 for toddlers. This gives players more options for self-expression in the game.
In addition, the update will significantly improve how infant and toddler Sims function. This comes in response to community feedback on platforms such as the EA Forums and The Sims Discord. For example, a new option is being added to disable caregiver autonomy for infants, allowing for a more hands-on approach to infant care.
Specific improvements for infants and toddlers
The update introduces a new object, the Infant Playmat, which provides a safe and pleasant place to put infants down. Improvements have also been made so Sims can change diapers faster and spend less time on care tasks. Infants will get hungry less quickly, while feeding now takes about 15 minutes of Sim time, making the experience easier for players.
There are also fixes for Sims’ elderly behavior. For example, business and non-activity interactions are being improved, along with an autonomy adjustment that can be hidden for more streamlined gameplay. This is intended to address highly requested improvements from Simmers.
Improvements based on player feedback
According to EA, this update is the result of focused efforts to optimize the game based on direct community feedback. That includes a visible improvement to the in-game photo feature, with the issue of “black photos” now fixed. This means Sims should now be photographed correctly, and planned updates will continue in the future.
In total, more than 150 bug fixes are being introduced, including issues that can block gameplay and inconsistencies with the interface. The patch notes on May 12 will provide a full overview of these fixes.
Timeline
2026-05-05 14:11:00: EA reveals new clothing category and revised toddler gameplay in major The Sims 4 update.
2026-05-06 10:00:00: Twitch livestream to further explain the update.
2026-05-12: The major update goes live, with new features and bug fixes for The Sims 4.
Players can look forward to these changes, which are aimed at improving the overall gameplay experience and addressing highly requested features in The Sims 4.


