The arrival of a new baby is an exciting time, but it also brings with it a plethora of decisions. Among the first ones is which clothes to buy. There are countless brands, styles, and patterns of children’s clothing, which can easily get you confused on what to pick. The best clothing for your newborn or young kid should not only be cute but also comfortable and soft. Fancy outfits in the name of fashion may look promising, but if they are itchy, your little one will be in tears the whole time and maybe just itching to get out of them.
The fabric you choose for your child’s clothing makes a huge difference. It is important to consider natural fabrics like bamboo fiber, which is soft and will help keep your child cozy and happy. You should also look for clothes that are stitched in a way that will not cause any irritation on your child’s sensitive skin.
You will need a few basics to start your baby’s wardrobe:
Onesies are an essential, and you can get them in short- or long-sleeve varieties. These will serve as a no-fuss outfit for summer and winter, and they can be easily paired with pants or a pair of footie pajamas when it’s cold. Bodysuits are another good option for babies, and they come in long- and short-sleeve varieties as well. You can also add a few kimono-style bodysuits to your baby’s closet, which are great for wearing until their umbilical cord falls off, usually around two weeks after birth.
A few pairs of leggings are also a good idea for your infant. They can be worn over a bodysuit for warmth and comfort, and they are easy to pull on and off as needed. You should also include a couple pairs of socks, and hats for keeping your baby warm, especially in the cold months.
Lastly, you should have some blankets on hand to keep your infant warm and snuggly in a carrier or stroller. You can use muslin and cotton blankets, which are breathable and will keep your baby from overheating, or you can also get fleece or sherpa blankets, which provide more warmth.
You should always check the washing instructions on each piece of clothing, and be sure to follow them closely. You will want to wash your baby’s clothes in cold or lukewarm water, and avoid using bleach, which can discolor clothing. You should also avoid any clothes with attached buttons or strings, as they can become strangulation hazards for your baby.
After your baby’s basic outfit is ready, you can also start adding other clothing items, like dresses and shirts, which will be perfect for special occasions. You can even add some coming-home outfits, which will be a wonderful memento for you and your baby. When it comes to buying baby clothes, remember that your little one will grow fast, so shop by weight or length recommendations.