Baby clothes aren’t just about looking adorable on your newborn; they’re also about keeping your infant comfortable throughout the day and night. You might need to change their outfit up to three or four times in one day, especially if they spit up, and for this reason it’s best to have plenty of onesies, footie pajamas or sleepers and other comfy clothing items on hand.
When shopping for baby clothes, look for the type of fabric and closures that are gentle on your baby’s skin, as these can have a big impact on how easy it is to dress them and undress them when they’re fussy or wiggly. You should also consider a garment’s fiber content, and opt for organic cotton that is grown without harmful chemicals and dyes that could be harsh against their skin. If you’re concerned about your baby’s health, check for GOTS or OEKO-TEX certifications to ensure that the fabrics are hypoallergenic and gentle.
Babies can’t regulate their own body temperature, so dressing them in breathable layers is essential to keep them comfortable and happy. You can easily layer a tee and a onesie or long-sleeved bodysuit over leggings or pants to make sure your newborn stays warm, but remember that too many layers can cause overheating. Look for signs your baby is too hot, such as flushed cheeks or a sweaty back.
Rompers and 2-in-1 dresses are great options for new babies, as they offer a one-and-done style that makes it easy to dress and undress them. Some of these garments even include fold-over scratch mitts at the sleeves to help prevent very young babies from accidentally scratching themselves. And if you’re heading outside for a walk or to the park, be sure to pack a lightweight polar fleece jacket that will protect your baby from the cold.
A good rule of thumb is to have at least seven baby clothes on hand, so that you can rotate out garments as they get worn and dirty. A few extras will be helpful for special occasions like holiday parties and photo shoots, too.
Bodysuits are an important part of any baby’s wardrobe. They’re an easy, no-fuss outfit for summer and a simple base layer in winter, and they come in long-sleeve and short-sleeve styles. Some feature snaps on the side for easy diaper changes, while others have a kimono-style front that opens across the chest and is easier on a newborn’s umbilical cord stump. You should also have a few pairs of pants on hand to pull over bodysuits when the weather gets cooler.