It can be tempting to go the whole hog and stock up on a wardrobe full of cute little clothes for a baby, but before you do consider this – it is difficult to predict what size of clothes your baby will need when she arrives (particularly if she is born prematurely) and for how long she will wear the new born size.
While some babies are born big and never need that new born size (0-3 months on the label usually) others may wear them for many months. Though you should stock up on baby clothing before the arrival, buy from a store that has a good return policy so that if you didn’t use any of the stuff you can return it.
The basic clothing that you will need for a baby will be:
- Tops and Leggings – about 5 of each are usually quite enough. The benefit of having separates is that you can mix and match. Also if a baby spits up on her shirt, you can change just that; and if baby soils just the pants, you don’t need to change the entire outfit.
- Onesies or jumpsuits – Five of these cover all outfits also should usually be enough, particularly if they are the sort with built in booties (which give the baby no place to grow and will be quickly outgrown). The sorts with hoods especially, are great for when you want to take baby out of doors and so on. These can work pretty well as sleep wear as well.
- Vests or undershirts – These items that fit snugly over the chest are a good idea if you want to keep baby warm or dress baby in layers and want the option of removing the outer shirt on a hot day. Look for ones that have buttons down the front or what is known as an “Envelope Neck” which is easy to get on but fits high over the chest.
- Jackets / Sweaters – Depending upon how cold or warm it is when baby arrives and the kind of climate you have where you live, you can get couple jackets, sweaters or sweatshirts. It is a good idea to get slightly larger sizes so that they fit even over several layers (if you have to take baby out on a really cold day) and will also fit baby for a longer time (you can always fold up longer sleeves for now).
- Socks / booties – For a major portion of the first year of life, baby won’t need any shoes to walk around in, but warm soft socks will keep baby’s feet nice and snug.
- Headgear – A sun hat with a wide brim if it’s going to be sunny and warm wooly hats if it’s going to be cold should be the obvious choices.
- Mittens – Not only do these keep baby warm, they also prevent accidental scratches (you may be surprised at how badly babies can scratch themselves).
In all things, look for soft and comfy materials and uncomplicated snaps or buttons for quick and easy taking off and putting on.
This is a guest post by NewbornBabyZone.com. The blog offers complete information on topics like baby development, baby shower ideas, baby products, feeding and nutrition. Visit the blog for anything and everything you want to know about keeping your little ones healthy and happy.