Whether you’re shopping for a baby shower gift or simply want to add a few essentials to your newborn’s wardrobe, there are lots of options out there. From sustainable brands to high-end designer pieces, the style and budget possibilities are endless. But while it may be tempting to go big, the best thing you can do for your little bundle of joy is choose natural and organic clothing. Babies’ skin is up to five times thinner than ours, which makes it more susceptible to irritation and rashes from synthetic fabrics. That’s why it’s important to stick with natural materials like cotton, silk, and bamboo rayon. Organic fabrics are made without harmful fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides — chemicals that are also used in the production of conventional cotton. These toxic substances absorb into the fibres and can be absorbed by your baby’s delicate skin, potentially leading to irritation, rashes, and even more serious health issues.
Another factor to keep in mind is that infants’ clothes need to be durable and breathable. They’ll likely be worn and washed several times per day, so they should be able to stand up to the test of time. Organic cotton and bamboo fabric are incredibly strong and sturdy, so they’ll last through lots of washings while remaining soft and comfortable. They also breathe better than conventional cotton, which can suffocate your baby and make them feel sweaty and uncomfortable.
Finally, you’ll also want to look for clothing that fits well. A common mistake that new parents make is buying a size too small, especially with onesies and footie pajamas. Babies grow so fast that they can outgrow their clothes within a few months, so it’s important to go by length or weight recommendations.
For daytime, you’ll need plenty of onesie sets and a few footed sleepers for napping and lounging around the house. It’s also a good idea to have a few sets of long-sleeved onesies in case the weather turns cold. And don’t forget about cozy slippers to protect those tiny toes from drafts.
As for sleepwear, this super-soft organic cotton baby sleeper gown is a definite must. It’s designed to be as functional as possible with fold-over flats that convert it into a footed sleeper and cuffs on the hands to prevent scratching (it’s also tagless). Plus, the design is so adorable, with phases of the moon printed in neutral navy and beige tones.
If you’re unsure what to get your little one, a set of classic cotton leggings from parent-favorite brand Primary is sure to be a hit. This five-pack includes a few pairs in coordinating colours so you can mix and match. Plus, they launder easily, which is a must when you’re changing your little one’s outfit multiple times a day.