When it comes to clothing, the early days are all about comfort. Not onlydo you want soft baby onesies and gowns that won’t irritate baby’s umbilical cord stump, but they should provide easy access for frequent diaper changes. If your little one is arriving inthe winter, add weather appropriate outerwear to the list, too.
Newborns have very sensitive skinso it’s best to make the switch to a fragrance-free baby detergent. You’ll also want an all-naturaloxygen booster for stains and spills.
Look for breathable, stretchable fabric that’s machine washable.
Kimono-style onesies and shirts are convenient to take on and off.
Side snap undershirts and sleeper gowns make constant changing easier.
Some shirts and onesies have built-in mittens to prevent scratching.
Many babies skip the newborn size and fit straight into 0 to 3 month clothing. As you establish a feeding and sleeping routine, your little one will start to grow quickly. Continue to look for baby clothes that are easy to put on and remove, as well as pieces that have plenty of room for growth. With spit up and blowouts happening frequently, you can never have enough!
Flexible fabric and zippers make dressing baby less of a struggle.
Get a mix of short and long sleeves for different temperatures.
Avoid clothing with bows, buttons, strings, and other hazards.
Set up a comfortable area where you can feed baby with a glider, breastfeeding pillow, plenty of burp cloths, and bibs.
Don’t forget snacks and a water bottle! The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends a nursing mother drink about 16 cups of water per day.
Layers are especially helpful for acclimating to new environments.
Look for sets with colors and patterns you can mix and match.
Find baby socks that grip to their feet and have non-slip padding.
You’ll need fewer onesies as your baby enters their exploration era. Between trips to baby music class and starting solids, they’ll need clothes that can keep up with an active—and messy—lifestyle.
Depending on the climate you’re in, you may also need to invest in cold-weather gear like a warm jacket, mittens, and knitted beanies. A stroller footmuff for baby and hand muffs for you are also essential.
If you’re in a warm, sunny area, get a bottle of sunscreen and upgrade any sunhats they’ve outgrown. Make sure you have a few backups, too—smaller items like socks and hats will inevitably get lost.
Choose durable, washer-friendly fabrics that can hold up to constant laundering.
A broad, wide-brim hat with built-in UPF offers ample sun protection.
Avoid clothing with excess material, which can snag as baby moves around.
Your baby is now at an age when they’re in constant motion. With all the scooting, crawling, and pulling up, you’ll start to notice more wear and tear on their pants and leggings, so get a few extra pairs.
It’s also a good time to start thinking about shoes. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recommends walking barefoot as much as possible, but you’ll want some lightweight baby shoes for outdoor adventures.
Adjustable waistbands and cuffs that unroll can extend the fit for longer use.
The best shoes for new walkers have flexible soles, a wide toe box, and velcro straps.
At this age, your little one may be aging out of infant clothing and into toddler sizing.