A new baby is a joy, but it can also be costly — and if you’re not careful, your budget can get blown out of the water. The key is to focus on the basics: essential newborn outfits, durable diapering items, and versatile accessories that can be used again and again. It’s also a good idea to shop during sales and sign up for rewards programs or loyalty discounts, as these can help you save money on essentials like baby clothes.
Newborns can grow at an alarming rate, so be sure to buy large enough sizes to last. It’s also a good idea if you plan on shopping for boys and girls to stick to gender-neutral clothing, as this can be used again and again for future children, saving you money in the long run.
Baby clothing is designed to be comfortable and easy to wear, as well as durable to withstand the rigours of daily life. It’s also important to look for fabrics that will be gentle on a baby’s sensitive skin, particularly if they suffer from conditions like eczema or allergies. 100% organic cotton is an excellent choice, as it’s soft, breathable, and less likely to cause irritation.
In the first few weeks, newborns need simple, lightweight clothes that can be layered as the temperature changes. A baby bodysuit — which looks like a leotard but has fasteners between the legs for changing the diaper — is a great option because it allows you to dress your little one without having to undress them completely. Then, a long-sleeved tee can be added, which will keep their arms covered and prevent overheating.
Footies, which are pants with built-in feet, are another good idea for infants. They eliminate the need for socks or booties, which can easily slip off a tiny baby’s feet. (Babies also lose heat through their heads, so a soft skull cap is an essential for the early weeks.) A pair of warm, cozy mittens or socks are helpful, too, as are thick leg warmers, which can be slipped over footies and pants.
A onesie with snaps on the front is a good choice for newborns because it’s easier to pull over their heads than a shirt that requires you to lift and fold up their arms. It’s also easy to put on, which is especially important if you’re dealing with a fussy baby or have limited hands.
When shopping for baby clothing, keep in mind that you will need to wash many of these items frequently. This is due to spit-ups, blowouts, and sweat from exercise. If you can, opt for machine-washable fabrics that are gentle on your baby’s delicate skin. Avoid fabrics that require ironing, as this can damage or scratch the fabric. When it comes to washing, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for care.
To reduce laundry costs, prioritize buying clothing that is reusable and can be worn again. Buy a variety of neutral-colored bodysuits and onesies (6-8), which can be mixed and matched with different pants (3-4). Add in reversible jackets (5-6), dual-use bibs (4-8), and shoes (5-6). For cold weather, consider thermal-lined pajamas (9-12) or insulated snowsuits (12-24 months). Investing in mix-and-match pieces that will last is a smart way to maximize wardrobe space and reduce the amount of clothing you need to purchase later on.