Your Ultimate Guide to Newborn Baby Clothes (2024)

Your Ultimate Guide to Newborn Baby Clothes

Of all the overwhelming aspects of becoming a parent—the late nights, the diaper changes, the complicated feeding schedules, the array of bodily fluids that will inevitably end up all over you—newborn baby clothes are probably not an aspect of child care that you have put a significant amount of thought into. As your child makes the transition from newborn to baby to toddler, you may feel like they’re growing too fast for you (or their wardrobe) to keep up with. But with a few simple steps, you can feel confident in the knowledge that you’re prepared for all of the obstacles that parenthood might throw your way. Shopping for baby wear can be overwhelming, with the countless array of styles, indecipherable children’s size charts, and the sheer number of accessories available (why does a baby even need a pair of five hundred dollar Gucci sneakers?). And so, you eventually resign yourself to the hand-me-downs and last-minute baby shower gifts from friends and family to fulfill your little one’s fashion needs. However, it’s just as important to think about the clothes your baby is wearing as it is to consider the brand of formula or the type of stroller you purchase. Think about it—your baby is going to spend some of their most formative years in these clothes, so it’s important to make sure that they’re happy and comfortable with what they’re wearing.In this article, we’ll take a look at all the ways to dress your baby safely, comfortably, and stylishly throughout all the seasons, without breaking your bank (I promise!).

What Clothes Are Best For Newborns?

The three most vital aspects ofnewborn baby clothes are comfort, convenience, and safety—you want to make sure that the clothing is made of soft, breathable material that will not chafe or restrict the child’s breathing, while also allowing you to quickly and easily change diapers and clean up messes. It’s also important to make sure that the clothes are appropriate for the weather and occasion.

First things first: you want to make sure that your baby is dressed according to the time of year, whether it’s the freezing winter months, the damp chill of spring, the blazing heat of summer, or the frosty winds of fall.

If you are a parent who lives in a colder part of the world, winter is probably the season you dread most—babies are not able to regulate their body temperatures as well as adults, leaving them much more at risk when the temperature begins to plummet. The key to keeping your baby warm and cozy is to layer, layer, layer. Although it may seem easy enough to throw a thick winter coat over a pair of footie pajamas and call it a day, it’s important to plan out a solid cold-weather “strategy” for dressing your baby, so that you can both have comfort and peace of mind despite the chill. A nice template for a layered baby outfit is a warm onesie as the very first layer, followed by one or two long-sleeved shirts and pants, then a warm sweater, and then, finally, a thick winter coat. Remember to keep your baby’s feet, hands and head warm as well—a couple layers of socks, mittens, boots, and a thick hat are also incredibly important. Adding several layers to your baby’s outfit allows you to add or remove layers according to the temperature, so that the baby doesn’t get too cold or feel stifled and uncomfortably hot.

What are the best baby clothes for traveling?

If you’re traveling somewhere in a car, consider leaving the bulky coat or snowsuit off, and then putting it on before getting out of the car. According to experts, overly bulky winter clothing can affect the effectiveness of children’s seat belts and prevent the harness from tightening enough.Another option is to dress your baby in a sleeper gown and hat, fasten the car seat buckles, and then place layers of blankets on top. If you plan on transporting your baby in a stroller or portable car seat, layers are once again of the utmost importance, with a snowsuit over everything if possible. Avoid extremely thick socks with winter boots, as they can cause the boots to become too tight and limit circulation to the feet—if the baby has to wear thick socks, make sure their boots are one size bigger than their usual size to allow room for the sock. Although frostbite is rare, it can be incredibly serious, with the baby’s ears, hands, and feet mainly at risk. It’s also best to avoid clothes and accessories with strings or laces, as they can be strangling hazards. Although all these tips and warnings may seem a bit overwhelming at first, being organized and prepared will make life much easier in the long run for you and your little one.

How should I dress my newborn baby for Winter?

It’s impossible to talk about winter without mentioning one of the biggest holidays of the season: Christmas! For those who celebrate, the holidays can be a whirlwind of wrapping presents, baking, and visiting family. There’s nothing cuter than seeing a baby in an adorable Christmas dress, or a cute little holiday suit—but how do you get your baby to Grandma’s house without him looking like he’s been riding Santa’s sleigh through a blizzard? Every parent wants those perfect holiday pictures, but it’s a yearly battle to get kids into itchy party dresses and stiff formal shoes. The key to a stress-free holiday season is to lower your expectations—think festive but comfortable clothes, sneakers, and warm tights. In general, look for clothes with wide, stretchy necks to make getting in and out of them much easier. When you have a baby, stains and spills are a regular occurrence. Get ahead of them by dressing your baby in materials and patterns that hide stains, such as plaid or denim. Rather than choosing little loafers or Mary Jane shoes, go with slip-ons or shoes with velcro so that you’re not fussing with laces or buckles at the last minute. Remember to pack one or two changes of clothing as well.

If you’re set on a certain outfit for your baby, you can have them change into it right before taking pictures, and then change back into something more comfortable afterward. For newborn infants who are prone to spit-ups and accidents, a bib will keep their holiday clothes clean and photo-ready. Invest in a nice bib that will coordinate with their outfit, and you can rest easy in the knowledge that your baby will be protected while still looking dapper. If your infant is particularly fussy, don’t worry about getting them into a particular holiday outfit—one Christmas-themed statement piece, such as a Santa hat or some fun patterned socks will go a long way. For babies that are a little older, and are able to crawl around (and wreak havoc), make sure that their clothes aren’t overly constricting. Forgo the big, poofy Christmas dresses, as the skirts can become itchy, stained, or rip. Instead, try a festive Christmas sweater with pants, or a shorter skirt with leggings underneath. Overall, skirts generally do not stay down—provide a little extra coverage with some leggings, a diaper cover, or warm patterned tights to keep the diaper hidden. For little boys, make sure that their button-down shirts will still look cute when not tucked into their pants (as they most certainly will not be by the end of the night). Rather than zippered or buttoned pants, go with elastic-waisted pants, as they make bathroom breaks and changing clothes much easier for both you and your little one. At the end of the day, it’s impossible to ensure that your child will look picture-perfect, but that’s part of the fun—just remember to pack an extra change of clothes!

How should I dress my newborn baby for Spring?

As the frigid chill of winter thaws into spring, a whole new set of questions arises: how do you dress your baby for a time of year when the temperature fluctuates wildly? Just like it was for winter, the key here is layers. As a general rule of thumb, your baby should be wearing one more layer of clothing than you yourself are wearing. In spring, the mornings tend to be a bit cold, with temperatures rising gradually as the day progresses, and with multiple layers, you can gradually remove articles of clothing as the weather gets warmer. Some of the main factors you should consider when dressing your baby in the spring are: the baby’s temperature, the room’s temperature, and the environment where your baby will be. An easy way to determine your baby’s body temperature is to feel their chest or the nape of their neck, as their hands and feet are often colder than the rest of their body. As most new parents who’ve spent their time obsessively monitoring the temperature in the nursery can attest, maintaining a comfortable room temperature for your baby is very important.Doctors recommend a room temperature between 61 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

And, of course, parents should be mindful of changes in temperature in the environment—for example, if you’re taking a walk outside and then decide to stop for some coffee, you might take off your jacket if it’s warm inside the coffee shop. It’s important to remember that if you feel warm, so does your baby. Make sure that you are helping them adapt to the temperature of the environment they’re in.

One of the best parts of springtime is saying goodbye to the drab, heavy winter outfits and welcoming lighter clothes, floral patterns, and bright colors. Denim is a seasonally appropriate and very fashionable material for springtime—your baby can rock a little denim jacket, overalls, or jeans. Not only will it look stylish, denim will also keep your baby warm in case the unpredictable spring weather takes a turn for the chilly. When you’re deciding which clothes to layer with, try to use options that are easy to put on and take off—the last thing you want to be doing while dealing with an uncomfortable, fussy baby is fumbling with buttons and zippers. Blankets are a nice, easy layer that you can easily add and remove for trips outside. Make sure to add some light cotton hats, warm sweaters, and thick socks to your baby’s spring wardrobe. If you’re worried about your baby getting too hot, just watch him or her for signs of discomfort—squirming, crying, flushed skin, and excessive sweating are all good indications to remove a layer or two.

Infant bodysuits are a great option for the spring; they’re essentially onesies with long sleeves and no legs, and they pair well with pants and some warm socks. Merino wool is an excellent material for bodysuits, because while it keeps the baby warm, its cooling, breathable fabric ensures that the baby will not overheat. While bodysuits are great for spring, you should also note that they leave the baby’s legs bare which may cause them to get cold more easily. This issue is easily solved with a cute pair of pants or leggings, or even some baby leg warmers so your little one can serve some 80s realness!

With warmer weather comes—you guessed it—rain! Springtime is famous for its rainy days and windy weather, but this doesn’t mean that your baby has to be stuck inside. Look for clothes made from rubber or plastic that will provide a nice layer of waterproof protection for their clothes. Although cotton is good for cold weather, avoid it when it’s raining—cotton tends to retain water and doesn’t dry easily, resulting in a soggy, cranky baby. For the inner layers, choose wool over cotton, since it absorbs water while keeping the body warm and dry. Layer a cute windbreaker or raincoat over your baby’s outfit to keep them warm and dry, and don’t forget a pair of rain boots so they can splash in puddles to their heart’s content! Ideally, rain boots should go up to the child’s knee, ensuring that water won’t slip through into their socks. Prepare for the inevitable gap between the baby’s pant leg and their rain boot by adding a pair of baby leg warmers or some leggings underneath.

For babies and little crawlers, a waterproof puddle suit is a great investment that will allow them to enjoy the rain without getting wet and cranky. Waterproof pants are also excellent if your little one insists on jumping in mud or crawling through wet grass. And finally, you may have heard about winter gloves, but what about rain gloves? These waterproof gloves are thinner and lighter than traditional snow gloves, but they still keep your baby’s fingers warm and dry when they’re out in the rain. Don’t be afraid to experiment with brighter colors and patterns, either. Ditch the muted whites and grays of winter, and instead opt for a pop of color in springtime colors like pink, green, yellow, and blue.

How should I dress my newborn baby for Summer?

Summer is probably the season in which you and your little one spend the most time outdoors—between barbeques, picnics, and visits to the beach and park, your baby’s summertime outfits will most likely be worn very frequently. Dressing your baby safely for summer may seem like a daunting task, but with a little bit of practice, you and your baby will be ready to beat the heat. Be ready to remove layers if your baby is showing signs of overheating (on particularly hot summer days, one layer should be enough). Cotton is a great material for infant summer clothes; it’s light and airy, and allows their skin to breathe without being exposed to the harsh sun. A pair of cotton shorts or a cute sundress for your baby girl are the perfect way to stay coolandstylish. When it comes to shoes, less is more—in the summer, it might be a good idea to choose a pair of sandals over heavy, restricting sneakers. You could even let your baby go barefoot! Feet are important in regulating heat, so letting them free will help your baby stay cool in the heat.

If you plan on spending long stretches of time outside with the baby in the summer, it might be a good idea to reconsider disposable diapers and opt for cloth ones instead. The plastic lining on disposable diapers tends to trap moisture and prevent the skin from breathing, which can lead to irritation and diaper rash. Be extra cautious on particularly sunny days—this doesn’t mean you have to stay inside, or slather your baby in sunscreen, but it’s best to cover as much exposed skin as possible to prevent sun damage. If you’re using a stroller, make sure to get a canopy or thin blanket to keep the sun off your baby’s sensitive skin. A small sun hat or bucket hat is a great way to keep the sun off of their faces, while also being an adorable accessory that you can match to the rest of their outfit. You could even top off the look with a pair of sunglasses for extra protection (and style)! Light-colored clothing is also a great way to keep the baby warm. Lighter colors trap less heat than darker clothes—there’s a reason why pastels are trendy in the summer, and it’s not just because babies look adorable in them!

Keeping babies cool while they sleep at night is a whole other issue that has left many parents puzzled—how do you swaddle your baby while also ensuring that they don’t overheat and wake up screaming in the middle of the night? Rather than the typical onesie that they might wear to bed, go with a short-sleeved onesie made from a lighter, thinner fabric. On especially hot nights, your baby will be fine sleeping in just a diaper. If you swaddle your baby, choose a wrap that is made of one hundred percent cotton, and ensure that the baby is only wearing one light, breathable layer of clothing underneath the wrap. You can also find mesh swaddles or blankets that will allow for plenty of air circulation, or wrap only the baby’s arms so that the rest of their body remains cool and free. Sleep sacks are also a great way to mimic the comfort of a blanket without the stifling heat.

Getting ready for a fun day by the pool or at the beach? Even before you get your baby dressed, make sure to apply sunscreen everywhere, including their hands, feet, and back of the neck. There are types of sunscreen that are specially formulated for baby skin, but on particularly sunny days, it’s best to keep them in the shade, out of direct sunlight. If they are going to be in the sun, a UV sunsuit is a good way to make sure that they’re protected from harmful rays. Beach shoes are also a good idea—they’ll protect the baby’s feet from sharp rocks and debris, while also allowing them to move around and swim freely. Beach shoes are not as rigid and firm as regular water shoes, functioning instead as a thick, waterproof sock. And of course, you’ll need swim diapers that’ll make going potty on the go a breeze. As you probably already know, regular disposable diapers don’t do very well when they get wet, making these waterproof swim diapers a necessity. You can find both disposable and reusable options, but if you and your little one plan on frequenting the beach or pool, it might be better to go with the environmentally friendly reusable option. If your baby is braving the water for the very first time, a baby lifejacket or flotation vest is an important safety precaution that will help you and your baby feel more confident. Don’t forget towels, blankets, snacks, and (several) changes of clothing!

How should I dress my newborn baby for Fall?

And last, but certainly not least, is fall! Fall can be a confusing time of year—chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and cold evenings make it difficult to pick out an outfit that won’t leave you sweating or shivering as the day goes on. Do you wear sandals or boots, sweaters or t-shirts, dresses or jackets? As the leaves change color, so should your baby’s wardrobe, as you make sure that they are comfortable despite the dropping temperatures and chilly winds. You’ve heard of spring cleaning, but what about the fall wardrobe cleanse? Fall is a great season to set aside for you to assess your baby’s wardrobe and decide which clothes they’ve outgrown while you pick out some fall-appropriate outfits for them. Although it may feel like your child is outgrowing clothes faster than you can buy them, make sure to invest in clothing that fits them—clothes that are too big or too small will result in a fussy, uncomfortable baby, and that’s no fun for either of you. Swap out the cotton shorts and bright summer dresses for some thicker fall clothes that will keep your baby warm, but not too warm. Try out a short-sleeved shirt or dress with some leggings and a hoodie. For boys, sweatpants and jeans are a classic. Pull-on pants and leggings are a must-have for any baby’s fall wardrobe, since they are easy to put on and take off, while also being comfortable enough to move around freely in. Look for pants with a cute fall-themed pattern to get in the spirit of the season. Woolen sweaters and cardigans are another excellent option for your baby to stay warm and stylish—you could even find them a piece similar to something you own, so that you can match!

Sherpa jackets are the newest fall trend in baby wear—these adorable wool-lined jackets are the perfect transition piece between summer and winter, and offer a cozy yet stylish way to keep your baby warm. Along with sherpa jackets, peacoats are also in style, adding a bit of vintage charm to your baby’s look. Peacoats can be light enough for layering or for warmer fall days, but they’re also available in thick, woolen styles that will help your little one brave the fall chill. Natural fibers like wool and bamboo are excellent materials for the fall and winter months, as they retain heat while allowing the skin to breathe and without being too bulky. Suspenders are also an adorable fall fashion choice for your little boy—not only are they practical, they’re also incredibly stylish! Who doesn’t want to see a cute little baby toddling around in a pair of suspenders? When it comes to patterns, plaid is an absolute fall classic. A nice plaid button-down flannel or dress will pair nicely with a pair of warm leggings and some boots. On colder days, throw a light jacket or vest over the flannel, and you’re all set! If you don’t want to spend money on fall-specific outfits, a nice statement sweater or long-sleeved t-shirt is also a good option for a fall summer staple that can be worn year-round.

Along with fall comes many children’s favorite holiday: Halloween! You’ve probably seen countless babies dressed to impress in their adorable little Halloween costumes, and thought to yourself, that’s adorable, but I don’t have the time, money, or energy to dress my baby up. If so, don’t worry! We’ll go over some easy, cost-effective tips so your baby can dress up and look even cuter than usual on Halloween. Pumpkins are an absolute classic in the baby Halloween costume department, and it’s for good reason—babies’ chubby cheeks and their gap-toothed smiles ensure that the pumpkin costume is adorable, seasonally appropriate, and easy to DIY if you don’t feel like spending money on a store-bought costume. If your baby can’t crawl or walk yet, that’s not a disadvantage! There’s a vast array of comfortable, sack-shaped costumes (mermaid, puppy, strawberry, skeleton—the choices are endless!) that will keep your baby comfortable and festive. As a general rule, don’t fret about making the perfect costume or ensuring that every detail is accurate. The simpler the costume, the more likely your baby will be okay with wearing it for long stretches of time. Pop a fun hat or a superhero cape on the baby for a quick, cheap costume that will still have everyone gushing about how cute they look. And of course, remember to take plenty of pictures!

Conclusion

I hope this post will help make things a tiny bit easier when it comes to dressing your baby. Don’t worry about making sure everything is perfect—at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is that your baby is happy and comfortable, and these tips will help you make sure that your little one is prepared for whatever the day might bring. When it comes to curating a stylish and seasonally appropriate wardrobe for your child, preparation is key. Although it may seem a bit confusing and overwhelming at first, with a little bit of patience and practice, you’ll be an expert in no time!

6 Important Factors to Consider When Buying Baby Clothes

Buying baby clothes is every parent’s responsibility, but some overlook essential features that contribute to the child’s comfort. It’s not uncommon to find babies in uncomfortable garments, all in the name of fashion. Stories of parents who had to cut their kids out of garments or others who suffered injuries due to the wrong selection of clothes.

And yes, we agree that children must look stylish, but overlooking safety and comfort isn’t acceptable. From picking the suitable fabric to selecting a fitting size, or even picking garments that won’t prove hazardous to the child’s safety, all are essential.

So, before you clear your cart and send your payment, you should read this post and find out what you should consider when buying the best baby clothes and where to buy cute baby clothes.

A Guide To Buying Baby Clothes: Factors To Consider When Buying Children’s Clothes

Children are sensitive beings, and even the smallest thing can be the beginning of a tedious battle with a skin rash or never-ending allergies. Therefore, we can’t underemphasize the importance of choosing their garments with the utmost care. After all, your precious little human should get the best quality clothes. When choosing unique newborn clothing, you should consider the following.

1. The Fabric

Young children's skin is incredibly delicate. Therefore, parents should choose their baby's first outfit carefully. When shopping, keep in mind that the clothing should be made of soft, skin-friendly materials. The best fabric for baby clothes that you should pick include the following:

Cotton;

Soy azlon;

Bamboo rayon.

These fabrics offer good qualities that make them suitable for infant clothing and are made from natural materials. Garments made from silk, satin, and other non-absorbent materials should be avoided until the child is old enough to start wearing baby sleepwear.

Such materials leave the baby soaked in sweat when they perspire and compromise quality. Bright colors should also be avoided because they may contain fluorescent substances that are harmful to sensitive skin.

2. Practicality

Your baby’s first outfits should be practical, especially during the first few months. Newborns, for example, nap a lot, so getting your newborn cute outfits that allow easy movement, are breathable, and are comfortable should be your priority.

Considering that diaper changes are also multiple, you should consider picking items that are easy to undo and put back on. The same applies to washing. Diaper accidents are bound to happen every so often. Consequently, you should find washable items and avoid lengthy laundry sessions.

Most importantly, it is best to consider purchasing clothing that can be worn all year. Whether it’s winter, summer, autumn, or fall, the baby clothes types you pick should be appropriate for the season. This works in your favor to keep the baby comfortable throughout the year and avoids making trips to the hospital to treat health conditions related to the wrong choice of outfits throughout the year.

3. Size

When buying clothes for your baby, it is vital to look at the appropriate size to avoid wardrobe malfunctions. Getting clothes that fit snuggly is cute, especially since it makes your child look even more adorable and neat. However, this can be constraining, especially if the baby loves moving around.

If you struggle to know what size clothing to buy for newborn babies, consider comfort the primary feature. Your child will feel quite comfortable and be able to move about quickly in the right size, preferably bigger than what they currently are. And because babies proliferate, it's essential to consider their growth rate before purchasing.

4. The Cost

It’s surprising how much it costs to get decent children's clothes in this era. With designers flooding the market with super cute newborn clothes, it can be challenging to pick between one item and the other, especially if you are a fashion-oriented person.

If you have a limited budget, choosing options with affordable prices is a better idea, considering you will save a lot. It also allows you to select several picks, unlike what you would end up with if you opted for designer clothes.

Remember that kids grow at an alarming rate, which means you will have to spend more money on their wardrobe every so often. So, if you do not have enough money to sustain a high-end lifestyle, choosing regular clothes for the child is a better idea.

5. Safety

Although you might assume that all baby garments are secure for the infant, the reverse is true. Baby clothing from some brands may have buttons or other readily ingestible objects, like glittering eyes, added to the front. When teething begins, which can begin as early as three months of age, your baby will inevitably start placing objects in their mouth.

To protect babies from burns, choose baby sleepwear made of flame-resistant textiles. Given that babies are at their most mobile between the ages of 9 and 14 months, this is especially true for infant sleepwear. Make sure the baby sleeps safe and sound while wearing the clothes.

6. Seasons

With the four seasons overlapping every few months, buying an ideal outfit for each period is critical. Some parents make the mistake of buying things three seasons ahead of time, which can be expensive.

In most cases, the children have either outgrown the dresses by the time they are needed or are too big to be used at the intended time. Even if there is a flash sale, avoid getting clothes that won’t be used within the next six months to curb wastage.

When To Start Buying Baby Clothes

Raising a child isn’t easy, especially since they sprout faster than weeds in the field. And, because buying clothes for them can be costly, you're better off looking for specific seasons when purchasing baby clothes to reduce costs and maximize discounts.

After Baby Showers

Most parents are usually excited to have children, which leads to early shopping. The problem with this approach is that you may receive plenty of gifts for the unborn baby, leaving you with piles of pieces that the child may never get to wear. If your family and friends are planning a baby shower for you, it would be best to buy clothes for babies after that to supplement what you won’t have.

During End-of-Season Sales

Buying winter clothes during the winter or summer vests when the sun is scorching hot is the worst idea for any parent. Getting children’s clothes during these times means you will pay more than you would have if you’d bought them at a different time. Take advantage of end-of-the-season sales for buying baby clothes in advance needed during the next few months or the incoming seasons.

Holiday Seasons

Most companies are always in a giving spirit during the holiday season, making it the perfect time to buy almost anything. Whether you want onesies, jackets, two-piece suits, or dresses for your girls and boys, you will get nearly anything at discounted prices. Find out which retailers have these promotions and buy your child’s clothes there.

It’s common knowledge that Black Friday always has super deals on everything, including clothes. But don't forget about its digital counterpart, Cyber Monday, which offers equally enticing discounts, especially for online shoppers. Check out popular newborn baby clothes online and see who offers the most lucrative bargain before settling for one or two options. Both Black Friday and Cyber Monday are excellent times to stock up on essentials for your little one without breaking the bank.

Examples Of Children’s Clothing

Sourcing for unique baby clothing ideas shouldn’t be challenging; however, finding the perfect, functional, safe, and stylish inspiration still is. But if you want to update your kids' wardrobes or pick out your baby's first outfit, we can give you ideas and links to places where you can buy cute newborn clothes.

Achieve both style and comfort with this floral dress. The short sleeve top has an ergonomic design, making it easy to wear and take off. The press studs at the bottom make diaper changes a breeze. And you can mix and match these clothes with other neutral colors in your wardrobe. Get this item and other baby girl clothes at a discounted price.

Dress your little minion in stylish baby clothes that are warm this holiday season. This item is unisex and comes in four colors. Winter nights do not have to be cold for the child if you swaddle them in this garment, among other warm accessories. This holiday season, look for exciting deals on this and other baby boy clothes.

Bodysuits are great for claiming the baby, staying cool, and being functional all at the same time. This particular one offers unmatched comfort and top quality thanks to its organic cotton fabric. The design allows quick slipping in and out during dressing time, and the easily undone press studs are perfect for diaper changes.

Final Word

Before purchasing the best baby clothes for your child, you should consider if they serve all functions and are safe to use. Remember to stay within your budget and avoid stuffing your house with items the child may never wear. With these tips, you won’t struggle to find out how much clothes to buy for newborn babies.

A Complete Guide to Buying Baby Clothes

Shopping for baby clothes is a source of great excitement: It’s a time when you get to dream of meeting your new baby, imagining the kind of individual he or she might grow up to be. You get to choose the mementos you’ll one day cherish for being attached to those first, precious memories of your child. For first-time parents, however, the process of buying baby clothes can be confusing and a bit overwhelming. How do you buy clothes without even knowing how big your baby will be, or how fast he’ll grow? How many outfits should you buy, and what type? Do you need to care for infant clothing in a special way?

In this guide, we’ll answer all of those questions, allowing you to have a stress-free baby clothing experience. (After all, the last thing you’ll want to do while caring for a newborn is juggle shopping trips to pick up last-minute clothing!)

Understanding Baby Clothing Sizes

As is the case with adult clothes, baby clothing sizes aren’t always consistent across brands. You’ll therefore want to check the sizing chart provided at the specific store you plan to get your baby’s clothing from. Still, there are general guidelines you can use to get an idea of the kind of sizes you’ll need:

-Newborn (abbreviated as NB or 1M) size clothing, which is suitable for most newborns. NB/1M size clothing will fit babies who are about 21 inches long and who weigh between five to eight pounds. If you think your baby will be especially large at birth (nine or more pounds), you may want to forego buying a lot of NB/1M size clothing and move straight into buying one size larger (3M). If you think you’re going to have a small baby, on the other hand, some stores also offer an extra small size, like 0M, that works for babies under 19 inches long.

-3M size clothing is designed for the average three to six month old infant. 3M clothing is suitable for babies who are up to 23 inches long and who weigh between eight to 12 pounds.

-6M clothing is made for babies who are between six and nine months old, as long as they aren’t larger than 25 inches long and about 16 pounds.

-9M clothing is for babies between nine months and one year old. This size works for infants who are about 26 inches long and under 21 pounds.

-12M. At one year old, your baby will graduate to wearing 12M clothes, which should fit until he (or she) is 28 inches long and about 24 pounds.

-18M size clothing should be purchased when your baby hits about 18 months old, and it fits babies up to 30 inches long and 27 pounds in weight.

-24M, sometimes also abbreviated as 2T or 2Y. By age two, your baby will probably need size 24Y, which is designed for babies up to 32 inches long and about 30 pounds in weight.

As your baby grows, you should measure him or her before buying new clothes, just to make sure you purchase the right size. Going by measurement will produce a more accurate fit than going by your baby’s age alone. We also recommend not buying all of your baby’s clothes ahead of time, just because it’s impossible to predict how fast your baby will grow. Buy enough clothes to keep your baby covered until he’s six months old, then measure him and go from there.

When it comes to footwear, socks and booties are generally enough to keep your baby warm and comfortable until he starts walking. Most babies take their first steps at around nine months of age, at which point they usually need a size 4 infant shoe.

What Types of Outfits to Buy (and How Many)

Not only will the size of your baby’s clothes change quickly as he grows, the type of clothes he wears will change, too. During the first six months of your baby’s life, you should look for clothes that have a wide neck hole and loose sleeves, as this will make undressing your baby much easier. You can expect to change your baby’s clothes a lot during this stage of his life; between accidents, while eating, spit-up, and diaper issues, you’ll find yourself swapping his outfits frequently. Know that you can also make late-night diaper changes easier by choosing PJs that slip off in one piece (e.g., a sleep sack). Avoid putting your baby to bed in clothes that have numerous snaps.

Between the ages of six to 12 months, you can get a little more creative in how you dress your baby, but you should still choose shirts and pants with simple fasteners or a slip-off design. Avoid clothes that have a lot of buttons, as unbuttoning a wriggly baby’s outfit can be a real challenge. You’ll also want to start buying more outdoor clothing for your baby at this stage because you’ll probably start taking him out more. If it’s chilly where you live, this will mean investing in hats, coats, booties, and mittens.

Generally, we recommend buying the following outfits in the quantities outlined below:

- Two sweaters, two hats, and two jackets, if you live in a cooler climate.

- Eight body suits and/or onesies. If you live in a warmer climate, make sure some of these onesies have short sleeves. (It’s important to make sure your baby’s perspiration can evaporate, as sweat can irritate infant skin and cause rashes.)

Two sleep gowns and seven sets of sleepwear.

Two swaddles and two sleep bags.

Seven daytime outfits.

Three to four bibs.

Five to six pairs of socks.

Note that these are just the basics of what your baby will need—Feel free to buy more baby clothes if you enjoy getting creative with baby wear, or if you want to make sure your baby will have extra clothes. Just don’t buy so many outfits that your baby won’t have a chance to wear them all before he outgrows them.

Consider Buying Gender Neutral Baby Clothes

In the past, it was considered traditional to buy all-pink clothing for a little girl and all-blue clothing for a little boy. However, like a lot of once rigidly-defined gender norms, this practice has fallen out of favor somewhat. Today, most parents find that it’s more practical—and more enjoyable—to invest in baby clothes that are at least somewhat gender neutral.

First and foremost, buying gender neutral clothes for your baby will make those clothes much more reusable. Remember, your baby is only going to wear his or her adorable outfits for a few months at a time, so your baby’s clothes will have plenty of wear left in them after he or she has outgrown them. Rather than letting like-new clothes go to waste, most parents pack up their baby’s outfits and save them for the day when their child gets a new brother or sister. Obviously, it will be a lot easier to recycle clothes that are gender neutral if you have a girl and then a boy, or vice versa. Even if you only plan to have one child, you’ll probably find that donating a neutral item like this navy cardigan to a friend or family member is a lot easier than trying to donate a tiny pink tutu.

Additionally, most parents discover that shopping for gender neutral clothes allows them to cultivate a more unique style for their baby. Choosing memorable items that express your tastes is ultimately a lot more enjoyable than buying pink or blue duplicates of what every other girl or boy baby is wearing. Of course, none of this means that your baby boy or girl can’t have a few fun gender-specific outfits; just aim for neutral hues when you’re picking out staple items.

What to Do with Clothes When Your baby Grows Out of Them

Generally, we recommend keeping a few of your baby’s first items for sentimental reasons. Beyond that, as alluded to above, you should decide what to do with your baby’s old clothes based on your family plans. If you think you’ll have more children, keep all of the “basics” outlined previously in this guide (but feel free to get rid of excess outfits if you’re low on storage space). If you don’t think you want more than one child, start sorting out items to be given to friends or family members who are expecting. Alternately, you can give used baby clothes to a charity shop if no one you know is expecting. When organizing baby clothes for donation, follow these steps:

Make sure clothes you plan to donate to charity or give away are in good shape. Look for stains or hidden tears, and if you find signs of damage, set the item aside.

Wash all of the clothes you plan to keep or donate thoroughly. Make sure you wash the clothes in a way that will completely disinfect them, then dry them thoroughly before storing them in a sealed container in a dry place.

Store any clothes you’re keeping in sealed plastic containers. It’s essential to keep bacteria, mold, and insects out of baby clothes while they’re in storage.

For damaged clothes, look for a recycling program in your area rather than just throwing the clothes away. Damaged baby clothes can be recycled into cleaning cloths, insulation material, and many other useful items.

Caring for Your Baby’s Clothes

Babies aren’t exactly the tidiest beings, so you can expect to do a lot of laundry during the first few years of your child’s life. Knowing how to care for your baby’s clothes properly will help you keep them in peak condition and keep your baby healthy.

Should You Wash Baby Clothes Before Using Them?

First off, make sure you wash every new item of clothing you buy before you ever put it on your baby. Babies have very sensitive skin, so detergent residues, fabric treatments, and other allergens that may be present on new clothes could irritate your baby’s skin. Pre-washing everything will keep your baby comfortable and prevent rashes.

When washing your baby’s clothes, never use bleach. One, it may ruin your baby’s delicate clothing, and two, bleach fumes or residue might harm your baby. Wash your baby’s clothes with a gentle baby-safe detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals (including synthetic dyes or scents) and choose a baby-safe fabric softener as well. One popular fabric softening method is to use ½ a cup of white vinegar in your rinse cycle; white vinegar doubles as a safe organic disinfectant and a natural fabric softener.

When treating stains, avoid store-bought stain removers. Like detergents, these often contain harsh chemicals that aren’t suitable for a baby’s delicate skin. They can also contain bleaching agents that may damage baby clothes. To treat stains, try rubbing a little bit of baby-safe soap into the stain and letting it sit for half an hour. Then, rinse out the stain and wash the outfit as you would normally. (Once again, adding a bit of white vinegar to the wash can be helpful, as vinegar can dissolve stubborn stains.) Avoid using very high heat when washing stained clothing, as high heat can sometimes cause stains to “set.”

Unlike adult clothes, all baby clothes should be washed on a “gentle” or “hand wash” setting because they’re so small and fragile. You should also carefully read the washing instructions on each outfit you own in order to make sure it doesn’t require any special handling. Finally, we recommend placing very small items (like tiny socks) in a mesh bag before you wash them. This will save you a lot of time fishing little wet socks out of the corners of your washing machine.

Now that you know what your baby will need in terms of clothing, feel free to start shopping! The memories tied to your baby’s first outfits will last a lifetime, so choose items that reflect your hopes, dreams, and aspirations for your child. Our broad selection of high-quality European baby clothing is a great place to start browsing.