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Baby Clothes: What You Really Need

While you may want to splurge on a tiny sailor suit or mini tutu for your newborn, the fact is: babies don’t actually need that many clothes. What’s more, they don’t need anything that could potentially irritate their delicate skin or respiratory systems. Here are our tips and picks for buying baby clothing.

For the first three months (at least), your baby’s main activities will be milk feeds and sleeping. So all those adorable outfits you’ve been eyeing aren’t really necessary. In fact, what your baby really needs is comfortable, temperature-appropriate clothing that’ll help him sleep (which in turn will help you sleep). And usually, that isn’t a sailor suit. Sorry to disappoint.

The other thing parents need to consider when purchasing baby clothes is what its made of. Babies have incredibly sensitive skin and delicate respiratory systems. Even though a material like 100% cotton might seem harmless enough, you need to be wary about how it’s cultivated. Was the cotton farmed with pesticides? Did they use formaldehyde to make it wrinkle-resistant? Do the snaps contain traces of heavy metals? Are the pajamas sprayed with flame-retardant chemicals?

We recommend using 100% organic or pima cotton where possible. We also love bamboo, because it doesn’t require any harsh pesticides or herbicides to grow either. All of these materials are much better options than synthetics like polyester or Spandex because they offer breathability.

For the first year of your baby’s life, their bodies will need to learn how to regulate their temperature and trust us – you don’t want to get up every hour of the night because your baby is sweating in their onesie!

Scroll down to see our tips and picks for buying baby clothing.

Tips for buying baby clothes for your newborn

Snaps make diaper-changing a snap: As much as possible, choose clothing with snap buttons at the crotch – these make diaper changes (and changing in general) much simpler. While two-way zipper onesies are life savers for older babies, they can fold awkwardly and rub your newborn’s chin/ face in the first few months.

2. Roomier is better: Where you can, go one size up. Again, changing your baby into clothing that’s a little roomier will make things easier on you, but also, going one size bigger makes your tot’s clothing work that little bit harder. Babies grow quickly, so it’s always best to give them room.

3. Layering is key: Remember to layer, layer, layer! Babies lose heat quickly, so as a rule of thumb, add one more piece of clothing than you’d wear yourself. We always add a tank under a onesie or tee.

4. Avoid pull-over styles: Layers that don’t need to be pulled over your baby’s head are essential, too – hoodies and cardigans with snaps are easy to pack in your diaper bag for cooler days.

With that in mind, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of baby clothing essentials, including how many of each you’ll really need.

The Tot’s baby clothes essentials list

Sleepsacks (2)

Babies wriggle and squirm a lot, which is why sleepsacks will be your best friend. Unlike a blanket that can be kicked off, or worse, accidentally moved over your baby’s face, sleepsacks keep your baby warm and toasty, while allowing their legs and arms to move freely and safely.

Since many babies prefer to be swaddled, you may want to opt for the Halo Swaddle Sleepsack. With a three-way adjustable swaddle, this sleepsack adapts to your growing baby’s sleep styles as she grows.

Halo Organic Cotton Sleepsack Swaddle

$34.95

Baby Clothes: What You Really Need

Tips for buying baby clothes for your newborn

The Tot’s baby clothes essentials list

Sleepsacks (2)

Sleeveless bodysuits (2–4)

Footed bodysuits & PJs (4–6)

Kimono Bodysuits (2 or more)

Lap shoulder bodysuits (4–6)

Footless rompers (4–6)

Leggings (4–6)

Crew neck shirts (3–4)

Hats (2–3)

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