New parents often wonder what they should dress their newborn babies in. Many people assume that newborns only wear sleepsuits, but there are actually many clothing options for infants. Keep reading to learn more about what newborns can wear and how to choose the right clothes for your baby’s needs.
What are sleepsuits?
Sleepsuits, also known as onesies, are bodysuits for babies that have snaps at the bottom to make diaper changes easier. They come in short sleeve and long sleeve versions and many have built-in feet. Sleepsuits are a popular choice for newborns because they keep babies warm while allowing for easy diaper access.
Some key benefits of sleepsuits for newborns include:
- Soft, stretchy fabric provides comfort for sensitive newborn skin
- No separate top and bottom means no riding up
- Snaps allow easy diaper changes
- Long sleeve and footed versions help keep baby warm
- Comes in many cute prints and colors
When are sleepsuits most appropriate?
Sleepsuits are ideal for:
- Sleeping – the soft fabric won’t irritate skin and built-in feet keep babies warm
- Playing indoors – provides comfort and range of motion for tummy time or floor play
- Quick trips outside like to the doctor – easy to put on and take off for appointments
- Newborns 0-3 months – snaps allow diaper access for frequent changes
Many parents use sleepsuits as the main clothing item during the newborn stage. But sleepsuits aren’t necessarily the only option.
What other clothing do newborns need?
While sleepsuits are extremely convenient for newborns, babies will also need some other clothing essentials:
Onesies
Short sleeve bodysuits without the snaps and feet are useful for layering under sleepsuits or pairing with pants or skirts.
Pants
Soft pants, leggings, and sweatpants allow mixing and matching with onesies and tops.
Socks
Socks help keep feet warm if not using footed sleepsuits.
Hats
Hats protect newborns’ heads when outdoors or in chilly rooms.
Jackets/Sweaters
An extra layer for warmth when needed. Button sweaters are easy to put on.
Gowns
Gowns are another sleep option allowing easy diaper access.
Tips for dressing newborns
Here are some tips for choosing clothes and dressing newborns:
- Use soft, stretchy natural fibers like cotton
- Avoid scratchy fabrics and tight elastic
- No ties or hoods to avoid safety risks
- Mitten cuffs keep hands covered without loose mittens
- Buy items oversized for warmer months
- Use layers for easy adding/removing
- Check neck size of tops to fit head
- Buy sleepsacks for use when swaddling stops
- Use kimono style onesies for cords/casts
- Only dress to go out if quick trip
With the frequency of diaper changes, most of a newborn’s day is spent in sleepsuits and onesies. But having some separates and layers will allow you to customize your baby’s outfit to the situation while keeping them comfortable.
How many clothes and sleepsuits do you need?
Since newborns spend much of their time sleeping and going through multiple changes of clothes per day, it’s important to have a good supply of sleepsuits and onesies on hand. Here are some recommended quantities:
- 10-12 sleepsuits in newborn size
- 10-12 onesies/bodysuits
- 5-7 pairs of pants
- 7-10 socks
- 2-3 sweaters/jackets
- 4-5 hats
- 2-3 pairs booties
- 2-3 swaddle wraps
Having multiples of essentials like sleepsuits ensures you always have a clean, dry option available even with round the clock changes. Stock up on the newborn size for the first 3 months.
When and how to transition out of sleepsuits
Sleepsuits are so convenient that many parents continue using them well beyond the newborn period. But around 3-6 months, you’ll want to start expanding your baby’s wardrobe.
Signs it’s time to start transitioning:
- Sleepsuits are tight in the feet
- Baby is moving more and needs greater range of motion
- Baby seems uncomfortable or hot in sleepers
- Baby is rolling over or pulling at snaps
Tips for transitioning:
- Try footless sleepers for more leg room
- Add onesies, leggings, and socks into the mix
- Use sleep sacks instead of footed sleepers
- Let baby go without socks and shoes more
- Offer tummy time without a sleepsuit
- Dress more for going out but undress at home
Making small changes gradually will help your baby get used to more clothing variety. Sleepsuits will likely remain part of the wardrobe but can be used less frequently as baby becomes more active.
Choosing dressy clothes for occasions
While comfort is the priority for everyday newborn attire, you may also want some nicer outfit options for special occasions like family photos, religious ceremonies, or meeting grandparents. Here are some tips:
- Softer fabrics like cotton knits are still ideal
- Skip scratchy fabrics, stiff layers, and complicated fastenings
- Newborn gowns and rompers are dressy but comfy
- Neutral colors with simple patterns photograph well
- Add a bow, headband, or socks for extra flair
- Take photos early before baby gets fussy
- Have a backup sleepsuit on hand for quickly changing
Aim for dressy but breathable fabrics that don’t dig in anywhere. And don’t worry about perfection – cute photos happen when baby is calm and cozy!
Shopping tips for newborn clothing
To make sure you get the most useful clothes for your new arrival, keep these newborn shopping tips in mind:
- Stock up on multiples of sleepsuits and onesies
- Buy clothes oversized to allow growing room
- Stick to soft, stretchy natural fabrics
- Choose snaps over zippers for easy changes
- Look for extra features like mittens and foot covers
- Get some accessories like socks, hats, and blankets
- Have outfit options for hot and cold weather
- Pick up a few special outfit sets or gowns
- Buy items in newborn and 0-3 month sizes
Shop secondhand stores to save money on items your baby will quickly outgrow. And remember outfits don’t have to match for a newborn – focus on comfort!
Handling laundry for newborn clothes
To keep your newborn outfitted in clean clothes, you’ll need to stay on top of laundry:
- Wash daily by size to limit sorting
- Use a gentle detergent and skip fabric softener
- Double rinse to remove detergent residue
- Air dry or use low heat to avoid shrinking
- Check for stains and treat promptly
- Disinfect clothes after sickness
- Designate small laundry bags for socks and accessories
- Assign hampers by clothing type or frequency of washing
Wash new clothes before use to eliminate chemicals from manufacturing and transport. With frequent washing, consider doing mini loads to avoid wasting water and energy.
Conclusion
While sleepsuits are a wardrobe staple, newborns can wear a variety of comfortable clothing items. Use breathable natural fabrics and prioritize easy diaper access and temperature regulation. Build a stockpile of essentials like sleepsuits, onesies, and socks in the newborn size. And don’t forget specialty items like going home outfits, formalwear, and accessories to complete your newborn’s wardrobe! Proper laundry techniques will keep clothes clean and safe for your baby’s sensitive skin. With the right mix of practical and cute clothes, you can keep your newborn cozy while also having fun dressing them up.