Many first-time parents are overwhelmed with all the essentials they have to buy for their new baby. From baby bottles to baby toys, what do you actually need for your baby?
And what baby clothes do you really need? You may think you need the latest designer baby clothes and accessories, but what is really necessary? In this article, we cut through all the noise and focus on what basics you need for your baby. Let’s get into it!
Contents
What are the essential baby clothes parents need for their babies
1. Onesies (or bodysuits):
You can never go wrong with onesies! These are the basic building blocks of baby clothes, and they come in all sorts of colors and patterns. Whether you opt for organic cotton or a softer material like bamboo or modal, onesies will keep your baby comfortable and covered up all day long.
Generally, you should get at least 5 onesies like these Newborn Baby Clothes for your baby. This will ensure you have one for each day of the week.
2. Footed pajamas:
Footed pajamas are great for keeping your baby’s feet toasty and warm, especially in cooler climates. Generally, it’s best to get a few sets of footed pajamas with different designs or colors so that you can easily get your baby changed for bedtime.
Get at least two sets of footed pajamas in different sizes, as your baby will grow quickly. Ideally, look for ones that zip up or snap in the front so you can get your little one dressed and undressed easily.
3. Sleep sacks:
Sleep sacks are an essential baby item, especially if you don’t want to use blankets while your baby is sleeping. They keep your baby warm without putting them at risk of suffocation, as there’s no loose fabric around their neck or face.
Look for organic cotton sleep sacks in sizes that will fit your baby from birth to 12 months old.
3. Pants and leggings:
To layer up, you’ll need some pants or leggings for your baby. This will give them some warmth if the temperature drops and make sure their little legs are not exposed to any drafts.
Generally, it’s a good idea to have three or four pairs of pants and leggings in different sizes. One or two pairs of shorts for warmer days can also come in handy.
4. Sweaters, hoodies, and cardigans:
Sweaters, hoodies, and cardigans are great for layering up your baby’s outfit. Plus, they look so cute! Look for lightweight knits that will keep your baby warm without feeling stuffy or uncomfortable.
Get at least two or three of each item in different sizes and colors. This way, you’ll always have something to keep your baby warm.
5. Sleepwear:
Of course, you can’t forget about sleepwear! Look for comfortable pieces like nightgowns or cotton pajamas that won’t irritate your baby’s skin. You don’t need too many of these, but try to have at least one set in different sizes.
Why is it important to have a good variety of baby clothes?
Having a variety of baby clothes is important for several reasons. For one, it will help keep your baby comfortable and protected from the elements.
It will also help you avoid running out of clean clothes too quickly, as you’ll always have something to fall back on! New parents are always juggling different tasks, so having enough clean clothes is one less thing you have to worry about.
And last but not least, having a good selection of baby outfits will let you style them however you like! Get creative with different patterns and colors, or choose classic pieces that will never go out of style.
What are some common mistakes people make when buying baby clothes?
Buying too many clothes:
It can be tempting to buy a lot of baby clothes, especially if they’re cute and on sale. But more often than not, it’s better to stick with what you need and what your baby will actually use.
It’s important to find the balance between having enough clothes for your baby and not overbuying.
Not buying the right size:
Babies grow quickly, so what fits them today may not fit next week. That’s why it’s important to buy clothes in a range of sizes that will fit your baby for the next few months.
As a rule of thumb, only buy what your baby needs for around the next three months. This will help you avoid having to buy new clothes too often.
Buying poor quality clothes:
It’s important to look for quality materials when buying baby clothes. Poorly made items may not last as long, and they can be uncomfortable for your little one.
Look for natural fabrics like cotton, bamboo, and wool, as these are breathable and gentle on your baby’s skin. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, as these can irritate their delicate skin.
By being mindful of what you buy and where you buy it from, you can rest assured that your baby will always be comfortable and well-dressed.
Buying clothes that are too tight or restrictive:
New parents often make the mistake of buying clothes that are too tight for their baby. This can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, as it restricts your baby’s movement and circulation.
Always look for items with plenty of room to move around freely. Avoid anything with elastic bands or drawstrings, as these can cause discomfort and even strangulation hazards.
Buying clothes without checking the fabric:
Do you know what fabric the clothes are made from? It’s important to check what type of material your baby’s clothes are made of before you purchase them.
To check what fabric the clothes are made of, take a look at the label. It should indicate what type of material is used and what kind of care it requires. The right fabric can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your baby comfortable!
Tips for taking care of your child’s clothes
Tip 1: Sort the clothes according to color
Sorting your baby’s clothes by color can make it easier to keep track of what needs to be washed and what doesn’t. This will also help avoid discoloring light-colored items when they are washed with darker ones.
Tip 2: Use gentle detergents
It’s essential to use mild detergents when washing baby clothes. This will help protect their delicate skin from any harsh chemicals, and it will also help keep the fabric soft and gentle. Watch out for strong scents as well, as these can irritate your baby’s sensitive skin.
Tip 3: Avoid fabric softeners
Fabric softeners contain chemicals that can damage the delicate fibers of baby clothes and make them less absorbent. They also have a strong scent that can irritate your little one. Instead, opt for natural fabric softeners like baking soda or vinegar.
Tip 4: Air dry whenever possible
Whenever possible, air-dry your baby’s clothes instead of using a machine dryer. The heat from the dryer can damage the fabric and shorten its lifespan. Air-drying is also gentler on your baby’s delicate skin and helps keep their clothes soft and cuddly.
Conclusion
So what baby clothes do I need? Ultimately, every parent is different, but the items listed above are what most parents consider to be essential.
When it comes to shopping for your baby, focus on what basics you need first before adding any fun and unique pieces. With the right items, you can be sure your baby will always look their best!
