The arrival of a new baby is one of the most exciting times in life, but it can also be an overwhelming one. When preparing for a new baby, a good way to streamline the process is to develop a checklist to keep track of the items your little bundle of joy will need. This includes everything from infant clothing to diapers and bibs.
The right clothes will ensure that your newborn has the best possible start in life, keeping them comfortable and safe throughout their first year of life. Baby clothes include bodysuits, babygrows (also known as sleepers), footie pajamas, wearable blankets and more. When shopping for baby clothes, it’s important to balance comfort and safety with style. Choosing soft, well-fitting garments helps your baby settle into a restful sleep pattern, which is important for their overall health and development. On the other hand, overly tight clothing can restrict movement and irritate delicate skin.
Newborns spend 16-18 hours a day sleeping, so having the right sleeping garments is essential to their comfort and well-being. Baby PJs are a must, and Carter’s offers an excellent selection of 100% cotton PJs that are designed to help your baby relax and drift into a peaceful sleep. Choose from one-piece footie PJs, the trusted Sleep & Play, wearable blankets and more.
As your child grows, you’ll also need to stock up on seasonal clothes. If your little one is due in the summer, consider registering for lightweight layers and a sun hat, while if they’re going to be arriving during winter think about a warm bunting, mittens and socks.
Babies are messy, and despite the best planning they will inevitably get stains on their clothes. To minimize the amount of laundry you’ll have to do, be sure to register for baby clothes in multiple sizes. This will give you a chance to try them on and see if they fit before making a purchase. If you do buy new baby clothes, it’s a good idea to wash them before your baby wears them for the first time. This will remove any excess dyes and chemicals, reducing the risk of irritation or an allergic reaction. Adding a pre-soak in nappy sanitiser will also help to ensure that any marks on the clothes are removed before they go on your baby’s sensitive skin.
Clothes for newborns are designed to be as comfortable as possible, and many include handy features that make them easy to dress. For example, rompers and 2-in-1 dresses (a dress top half with a romper under section) have full leg and back openings that allow for quick nappy changes. Some even have fold over scratch mitts that help prevent babies from accidentally scratching themselves. For warmth, a baby hoodie is a practical choice, while fleece is a popular option for cooler weather.