Did you know that new parents will spend an average of $12,000 on their newborn baby in the first year of life? This tally includes nursery accessories, diapers, food, and of course, baby clothes for a body that grows quickly.
Have you ever thought about what baby clothes you will need to have on hand before your infant arrives? Here is your ultimate baby clothes checklist, so you are never left unprepared.
1. Socks
When you have a baby, you will need to keep their feet warm as often as possible. You can never have enough tiny baby socks, especially because they are so easy to lose.
If you find socks hard to manage, you may be better off with footed pants or onesie pajamas for your baby. However, if neither of these is an option, socks are the best way to protect your child’s feet.
2. Onesies
Onesies are perhaps the most well-known stable of unisex baby clothes. A onesie is a leotard-like piece of clothing that fastens from the bottom, giving you easy access to diapers for changing. They also offer another layer of protection between the diaper and your baby’s clothes.
You should get a variety of onesies in both short and long-sleeved styles. Try to buy more than you think that you will need. You can never have too many onesies, and you will have extras on hand in case of accidents like diaper leakage.
Although the onesies that button may seem cute, many parents recommend going straight to zippered onesies. They save you quite a bit of time and will keep your baby from squirming or getting fussy when you change their clothes.
3. Cloth Diapers
Have you ever thought about how you can be more eco-friendly when raising a newborn? Cloth diapering is still a wonderful way to keep your baby clean and hygienic, while also saving thousands every year on your diaper bill.
If you want to switch from disposable to cloth diapers, make sure to talk to your physician. Some babies cannot have cloth diapers due to medical issues, so it is best to ensure that you make the right decision.
Cloth diapering presents the most value when you have multiple children. That way, you will already have cloth diapers ready to use for your next baby.
4. Pajamas
When it is time for bed, there is nothing comfier for your baby than some pajamas that will keep them warm and safe during the night. The best pajamas are onesies with foot coverings, so your baby does not have to wear socks during the night.
You should also get some options for when the weather gets warmer. Try a light, breathable fabric, rather than a heavy choice like wool.
5. Hats
After you give birth to your baby, your nurse or midwife will likely put a hat on them immediately. Keeping the head warm when the baby is a newborn is critically important. Because the baby is so small, they do not retain heat as well. A hat keeps heat from escaping from their head so that they do not get too chilly.
You should also make sure to have hats if you take your infant out into the sun. Since newborn skin tends to be more sensitive, it is also more susceptible to sunburn. A good hat will protect the head from painful sun damage later on.
6. Swaddle Blankets
Whether you need baby boy clothes or baby girl clothes, swaddle blankets are fantastic for any infant. These blankets have a unique design that will help you to swaddle the baby and make them feel much more comfortable.
If your baby has colic or is fussy, then swaddle blankets could help calm them down enough to go to sleep. They can also help your baby with anxiety and allow them to self-soothe, all of which are important for developing good sleeping habits later on.
7. Outfits for Special Events
Although you should not spend a lot of money on special baby clothes because your infant will outgrow them, it is still a good idea to have one or two pieces on standby. Brands like Hanna Andersson have some great options for outfits ranging from cute and casual to formal.
These types of clothes can be great options for professional photos, weddings, or even christenings. They also make wonderful keepsakes for later on that have connections to a specific memory or event.
8. Outerwear
When you go out with your infant, you should always make sure they have protection from the elements. On top of their regular clothes, they should also have heavier jackets for weather such as snow or rain.
If it snows in the winter, you may want to get some cute photos of your little one experiencing it for the first time. Make sure to bundle them up to avoid frostbite and other issues.
9. Sensible Shoes
Although your infant probably will not wear shoes for a while, you will eventually need to buy some shoes for them to romp around in. Most doctors and experts recommend that you do not put your baby in shoes until after the first year. This allows their feet to develop as they learn to stand and walk.
When you get shoes for your baby, look for soft-soled shoes if they still have trouble walking. Although the pair of hard-bottomed shoes may look adorable, they will most likely not be comfortable for your infant. The key is to get shoes with flexible soles.
Get All of Your Baby Clothes Essentials
When you have a new baby, you should not have to worry about having the right clothing for them to wear. With these baby clothes essentials, you can have whatever you need for any situation that could arise as a new parent.
Would you like to learn more about all things related to parenting? Check out our website for more tips, tricks, and advice for raising children.
