A newborn’s skin is very sensitive, so the type of clothing they wear matters a lot. It should be made of natural and breathable materials that are gentle on the skin. Cotton, for example, is soft to the touch and allows baby to breathe well. It also helps to regulate body temperature, preventing them from getting cold or sweating too much. High-quality garments also feature fastenings that are secure and can’t be easily swallowed by the infant. This is particularly important since babies are prone to choking during sleep.
Baby clothes should be soft, comfortable and easy to clean. Regular washing can prevent the build-up of dirt, sweat and odors on the child’s skin, keeping it healthy and reducing their chances of developing allergies. The proper fabric and clothing can also protect the infant from environmental elements such as cold air, wind, sunlight, and even dust.
Most new parents want to get the best clothing for their newborns, but some may be confused about what exactly they need. Generally, they should start with at least seven different outfits for their baby. This is a minimum number that will allow them to wash a few loads a week so their baby always has fresh, clean clothes on hand.
Body clothes make up the majority of any newborn’s wardrobe. These include rompers, gowns, sleepers, and short-sleeve and long-sleeve bodysuits. Rompers are one-piece suits that cover both the top and bottom of the child, making them perfect for diaper changes. They can be long-sleeve or short-sleeve and come in both winter and summer designs. Short-sleeve bodysuits are good to have on hand for the warmer months, and can be used as a base layer for shirts or dresses.
Gowns are usually made of lightweight fabrics such as cotton that are soft to the touch and help baby to feel comfortable during sleep or playtime. Some gowns are adorned with decorative details such as embroidery or lace, while others are more simple and casual. Regardless of the style, gowns should be sized appropriately and have snaps at the crotch to allow for quick and easy diaper changes.
Newborns often have trouble sleeping due to their startle reflex, which is triggered by movement and light. To help them settle down, many parents use swaddle blankets or sleep sacks that mimic the snugness of their mother’s womb. These items are great to have on hand and can be especially helpful for a baby’s first few weeks at home.
Newborns grow very quickly, so it’s a good idea to buy clothes in multiple sizes to have some on hand for each season. It’s a good idea to have some 0-3 month clothes on hand right from the start, as this size is typically suitable for most newborns up to eight pounds. Consider also adding a few special outfits for occasions such as photo shoots or a coming-home outfit. Finally, don’t forget hats or mittens for cold weather.