When creating your baby registry, one of the key items you’ll need to stock up on is bibs. But with so many cute patterns and styles to choose from, how do you know how many bibs to register for? You want to make sure you have enough to get you through those messy early months, but not end up with a surplus that will just take up precious nursery space. This article will go through the key factors to consider when deciding how many bibs to put on your registry. We’ll look at how many bibs you’ll realistically need for the day-to-day, how bib usage changes as your baby grows, and extra considerations like cloth vs. disposable. You’ll also find a handy bib calculator to help determine the right number for your needs. With this guide, you’ll feel confident registering for the perfect bib stash to handle even the messiest of babies.
How Many Bibs Do You Need Per Day?
When estimating how many bibs you need for your registry, the first question is how many you’ll go through in a typical day. For newborns 0-3 months, you can estimate needing 6-10 bibs per day. Very young babies tend to eat frequently and often spill or spit up. Having a fresh, clean bib for each feeding or bout of playtime will make your life easier. Here’s a look at why you may need so many bibs a day at this stage:
– Feeding time – With 8-12 feedings a day, you’ll want at least 1 bib per feeding. Breastfed babies tend to be especially messy, so have extra bibs on hand.
– Spit ups – Young babies still getting used to feeding often spit up frequently, sometimes going through multiple bibs after one feeding.
– Drool – Teething and normal baby drool means you’ll find yourself changing soggy bibs often.
– Playtime – Bibs aren’t just for eating anymore! Use them anytime your baby’s clothes are at risk of getting dirty.
– Minor accidents – Bibs help contain any loose bowels or accidental spit ups between outfit changes.
– Doubles – Some days you may need 2 bibs during one feeding or play session if your baby is extra messy.
So in those early months, having at least 6-10 clean bibs at the ready will make it less likely you’ll end up bib-less mid feeding. Stock up so you can simply grab a fresh one whenever needed.
How Many Bibs Per Day as Baby Grows
As your baby grows older and becomes less messy, you likely won’t need quite as many bibs per day. Here’s how bib needs tend to decrease as babies reach different stages:
– 4-6 months: At this age, babies have better control of swallowing and spit up less, so you can likely get by with 4-8 bibs per day.
– 6-12 months: As you introduce solid foods, look for bibs with crumb catchers since tidiness decreases! Still plan on at least 4-6 bibs per day.
– 1-2 years: Toddlers become more self-sufficient and you can scale back to just 2-4 bibs daily.
– 2+ years: Once kids can keep themselves relatively clean, bib use drops to just 1-2 per day for mealtimes.
Keep in mind every baby is different – some are prone to messes no matter what their age! But in general you can safely reduce your daily bib stash as months pass.
Total Bibs Needed for Newborn Registry
Looking at the numbers above, how can you determine a total bib quantity to put on your registry? Here are some tips:
– Stock up for at least 2 weeks of use – Babies grow fast so you’ll likely need larger bibs soon. Register for enough smaller bibs to get through the first couple of weeks until you can purchase more.
– Assume higher end of range – It’s better to have too many than too few! Register for the high end of the daily recommended quantity for each age range.
– Include laundry time – You won’t be able to use all your bibs every single day. Make sure you have enough to use some while others are dirty.
– Consider cloth vs. disposable (see next section) – Cloth requires more changes, disposable allows less laundry.
– Calculate for outings – Bring extra for car trips, visits to family, etc.
Using these tips, here’s an example bib registry quantity for the first 3 months:
– 10 bibs needed per day
– Stock up for 14 days at newborn stage
– 14 days x 10 bibs per day = 140 bibs
This gives you over 100 bib options to start without having to constantly run the laundry. Adjust up or down based on your own laundry preferences!
Cloth vs. Disposable Bibs
One factor in your total bib count is whether you’ll use cloth or disposable options. Here’s how to factor in bib type:
| Cloth Bibs | Disposable Bibs |
| – Require washing after every use | – Can be tossed after one wear |
| – More eco-friendly | – Less laundry |
| – Cute patterns; often keepsake | – Good for travel, outings |
| – Register for 15+ | – Register for a multi-pack |
Since cloth bibs need laundering frequently, make sure to register for at least 15. Disposable bibs can be bought in multi-packs since you’ll go through them quickly. When creating your registry, register for a selection of both cloth and disposable bibs so you have options for any situation.
Most Useful Bib Features
Not all bibs are created equal! Here are some key features to look for when adding bibs to your registry:
– Absorbent material -especially for cloth bibs. Look for multilayered cotton, microfiber, flannel.
– Pocket or crumb catcher – helps contain messes during meals.
– Waterproof backing – prevents leaks and stains on clothes.
– Large coverage – should extend over baby’s chest and lap.
– Adjustable or snapping closure – ensures a comfy custom fit.
– Soft edges – prevents chin irritation from drool and dribbles.
– Machine washable – for easy cleaning and reuse.
– Fun patterns and colors – because baby gear should be cute!
Prioritize bibs that have features like these that make mealtimes less stressful for parents and more comfortable for baby.
Matching Bibs & Burp Cloths
Don’t forget about burp cloths for your registry! Bibs and burp cloths are used together, so register for sets that complement each other. Look for:
– Absorbent burp cloths in same material as bibs
– Matching prints or patterns
– Burp cloths in multiple sizes for versatility
– At least 10 burp cloths to rotate for laundry
Pairing your bibs with useful burp cloths completes the essential mealtime setup.
Specialized Bibs to Register For
In addition to standard bibs, here are some specialized styles to consider:
Bandana bibs – Absorbent and fashionable! Great for older babies and toddlers.
Silicone bibs – Easily wipes clean and catches food. Ideal for teething babies who chew.
Waterproof sleeved bibs – Contains messes that go down to the arms. Lifesaver at dinner!
Bibs with catch-all pockets – Catches fallen food so less ends up on the floor.
Seasonal/holiday prints – Festive bibs make great gifts from family wanting to celebrate baby’s first holidays!
Don’t limit your registry to only standard bibs. Register for special bibs like these to handle specific scenarios.
Matching Your Bibs to Your Feeding Style
Your bib needs may also vary based on whether you bottle feed vs breastfeed. Here’s how:
Bottle feeding bibs:
– Prioritize bibs with crumb catchers since milk drips down chin
– Register for lightweight styles that won’t get too hot
– Look for bibs thatwon’t interfere with holding bottle
Breastfeeding bibs:
– Focus on maximum absorbency to handle milk
– Large coverage is essential, including chest and lap
– Should attach closed around neck, not back
– Opt for soft materials that won’t irritate delicate skin
Think about your own feeding plans as you choose bibs. The right bib makes feeding time more pleasant for both mom and baby.
Coordinate Bibs With Other Registry Essentials
Get the most out of your baby registry by choosing bibs that coordinate with other key items:
– Match bib colors/patterns to burp cloths, swaddles, crib sheets
– Register for bibs that layer well under baby outfits you pick
– Choose bib fabric that works with diaper bag, stroller, car seat, etc. you register for
– Get multiple bibs in your top clothing prints so they always match
Registering for coordinated essentials makes dressing baby easier. You’ll always have a bib in their outfit print!
Focus on Quality Over Quantity
It’s tempting to just register for tons of cheap bibs, but quality is important. Look for:
– Soft materials that won’t irritate
– Tightly woven fabric that absorbs well
– Strong snaps and stitching that withstand washing
– Brands like Aden + Anais known for quality
With higher end bibs taken care of on your registry, you can purchase budget bulk packs later as needed.
Find Registry Completion Discounts
Once your due date approaches, you’ll likely need to purchase additional bibs. Many baby stores offer registry completion discounts – take advantage! Stock up on extra bibs using your remaining discount after your shower. This will give you your full supply for baby’s early months.
Considerations for Twins or Multiples
If you’re expecting twins or higher order multiples, everything – including bibs – needs to be multiplied! Here are bib tips for multiples:
– Assume at least 10 bibs per day, per baby
– Stock up for the newborn stage when bib use is highest
– Register for bib variety since babies may prefer different kinds
– Choose different prints or color bibs for each baby
– Recruit family to gift bibs at your shower to help supply
Having twins or triplets means you’ll fly through bibs even faster. Bulk up your registry to prep for the increased need.
Don’t Forget Backup Bib Storage
Once you accumulate all those adorable bibs from your registry, you need a system to organize them. Consider registering for:
– A hanging organizer or bins to store bibs in nursery
– Wet/dry bib storage bags for diaper bag
– A divided bib folder to keep bibs tidy in car or stroller
– Drawer inserts so bibs don’t jumble in dresser
Bib organization is key to keeping your sizable stash neat. Add storage solutions to your registry for easy access to bibs when you need them.
Register for a Variety of Styles and Prints
While you’ll need multiples of certain bibs, also register for variety:
– Solids, stripes, polka dots, and prints
– Different colors like primary, pastel, and gender neutral
– Holiday and seasonal designs
– Sports team logos or cute animals
Mixing up bib styles keeps things interesting! Having options also ensures you can find one to match any baby outfit.
Involve Your Shower Guests in Fun Bib Themes
Your baby shower is the perfect time for guests to gift you bibs. Make it fun and theme related!
– Jungle animals / safari
– Circus / carnival
– Snowflakes / penguins / polar bears
– Owls / woodland creatures
– Farmyard / baby farm animals
– Hot air balloons
– Camping / national parks
Suggest bib themes on your registry so guests can contribute to your essential supply. Themed bibs also make great photos at your shower!
Consider Personalized Bib Options
For an extra special touch, look for personalized bibs to register for:
– Monogrammed with baby’s initial
– First name or nickname printed on bib
– Family name date established
– Funny custom phrases like “Milk Mustache in Training”
– Birth stats like weight and date
Personalized bibs are perfect shower gifts or keepsakes from grandparents. They also help identify bottles if you’ll send your baby to daycare.
What to Avoid When Registering for Bibs
While piling your registry high with cute bib options, beware of these bib pitfalls:
– Thin, holey material that leaks through
– Oversized bibs that don’t secure on
– Sharp edges or snaps that could scratch
– Hard to clean bibs that must be hand washed
– Delicate fabrics like silk or satin that stain easy
– Impractical triangular bandana styles
– Dated prints or silly sayings
Keep your bib choices functional and classic. Think absorbent, durable, and adorable on your little one!
Questions to Ask About Recommended Bib Quantity
Wondering if you should register for more or fewer bibs? Here are some key questions to help you decide:
– How often do you plan to do laundry? The less often, the more bibs you need.
– Will you primarily use cloth or disposable bibs? Cloth requires more changes.
– Does your baby seem especially prone to spitting up or drooling messes so far? Messy babies need extra bibs.
– Do you prefer outfit matching or don’t mind bibs and clothes clashing? Matching requires more.
– Will your baby attend daycare and need multiple bibs packed daily? Daycare babies may need more backups.
– Are there medical or developmental factors that could make your baby messier? Special needs may increase bibs needed.
– Will family gift you additional bibs at your shower beyond what’s on your registry? This allows you to register for less.
By factoring in your own habits and plans, you can fine tune the right bib quantity for your family’s needs. Don’t hesitate to overestimate your bib supply, especially for the newborn phase. You want to be fully prepared for any amount of mess!
Conclusion
A new baby equals lots of new messes. Ensuring you have plenty of cute, functional bibs will make your life easier as you handle the inevitable spills during feedings, playtime, and early teething. Use the tips in this article to determine the right number of daily bibs you’ll need as your baby grows. Take into account your laundry preferences, feeding styles, and favorite prints. Register for at least 2 weeks’ worth of bibs in the newborn phase, opting for quality over quantity. Mix cloth and disposable bibs and include specialty styles for specific scenarios. Complement your bibs with burp cloths, storage solutions, and extras like personalized picks. With the right bib supply ready, you can focus on bonding with your little one during your precious first months as a new parent. Those messes will happen, but the right stash of handy, absorbent bibs means you’ve got things covered!
