As a new parent preparing for your baby’s arrival, putting together the nursery essentials can be overwhelming. When it comes to feeding time, silicone bibs are a must-have item to catch all those inevitable dribbles and spills. But with so many options on the market, how do you know how many bibs to get? Here’s a handy guide to help determine the ideal number of silicone bibs you’ll need for your little one.
How many bibs does a newborn need?
For newborns, you’ll want to have at least 10-12 bibs on hand. Here’s why:
- Newborns eat 8-12 times per day, so you’ll go through plenty of bibs.
- Allow for spit ups and other messes that require outfit changes and fresh bibs.
- You’ll want extras so some can be in the wash while baby is wearing others.
- Multiple bibs allow you to have some stationed around the house for convenient access.
A dozen bibs ensures you have enough clean bibs available at all times during those first few months when your baby is feeding so frequently. Having a surplus also allows you to retire bibs that get heavily stained.
How many bibs does a 3-6 month old need?
As babies grow into the 3-6 month range, their feeding schedule decreases to 5-8 feedings per day. They also tend to get a bit less messy at this stage. For babies this age, here’s how many bibs you’ll need:
- Aim for 6-8 bibs total.
- You may not need to change bibs after every feeding.
- Have 3-4 that stay in rotation for feedings.
- Keep 2-3 as backups for outfit changes.
- Wash bibs every 2-3 days.
Fewer bib changes are required at this stage, but you’ll still want to have enough to stay on top of laundering while keeping some handy for mealtimes.
How many bibs does a 6+ month old need?
As babies near the 6 month mark and beyond, their feeding and eating habits shift again. Here’s an estimate of how many bibs you’ll need:
- Aim for 4-6 total bibs.
- Use 1-2 per day with regular meals.
- Have 1-2 for backup in case of outfit changes.
- Wash bibs every 2-4 days.
Older babies are generally less messy, so you likely won’t need more than a couple bibs per day. Still, have some extra on hand for laundry days or accidental messes.
Types of bibs to have on hand
In addition to having multiple bibs, it’s smart to have a variety of styles suited for different stages and purposes:
- Burp cloths: Absorbent multi-layered cotton cloths to catch dribbles or use for burping. Have 6-10 on hand.
- Bandana bibs: Triangular-shaped, absorbent, and easy to tie. Great for beginning eaters. Aim for 4-6.
- Waterproof silicone bibs: Essential once baby starts solids to contain messes. Have at least 4-6.
Having an assortment ensures you can use the right bib for the right moment – from milk dribbles to pureed peas!
Tips for getting the most from your baby bibs
To maximize your investment in baby bibs, keep these care tips in mind:
- Choose bibs made with quality materials like 100% cotton, microfiber, organic cotton, or silicone.
- Look for bibs with crumb catchers or food traps to contain solids.
- Get bibs with adjustable closure for a custom fit as baby grows.
- Buy different colors/patterns to easily tell which are clean or dirty.
- Wash bibs frequently using baby detergent and hot water.
- Inspect bibs and retire any with holes, tears or permanent stains.
Taking good care of your bibs means they’ll stand up to repeated use – saving you from buying replacements.
Stocking up on bibs
Here are some tips for building your baby bib stash affordably:
- Buy multi-packs of basic cotton bibs to save per piece.
- Register for bibs so others can gift them at your baby shower.
- Look for sales events and promo codes when buying online.
- Checkout second-hand stores for gently used bibs.
- Ask friends for hand-me-down bibs their kids have outgrown.
- Opt for bibs over pricier clothing protectors.
With some smart shopping, you can get all the bibs you need without breaking the bank.
Keeping bibs organized
To keep all those bibs under control, try these organization tips:
- Use hanging organizers or cubbies to store clean bibs.
- Keep a small basket of clean bibs in your main feeding area.
- Use wet/dry bags or hampers to separate dirty bibs from clean.
- Designate a laundry basket or bin just for dirty bibs.
- Fold/roll bibs neatly so they’re ready to grab and go.
- Store less used bibs under baby’s crib or in nursery closets.
Staying on top of the bib laundry and keeping bibs neatly organized can make your life so much easier!
Do you really need bibs?
While not an absolute essential, bibs can be extremely useful for a variety of reasons:
- Save outfits: Bibs take the hit from spills instead of staining clothing.
- Contain messes: Bibs keep food and liquids off baby, you, and surroundings.
- Comfort for baby: Bibs keep dribbles and drool from directly touching baby’s skin.
- Cute accessorizing: Fun prints and colors jazz up baby’s look.
- Easier cleanup: Quick outfit changes if needed versus washing entire outfit.
For most babies, bibs are a useful item that simplifies feedings and reduces laundry. But if your baby is especially neat or not a spitter, you may be able to skip bibs.
Special considerations
When determining your bib needs, factor in any special circumstances:
- Reflux issues: Babies prone to spitting up need extra bibs to frequently swap out.
- Sensitive skin: Opt for soft, natural fabric bibs if baby’s skin is easily irritated.
- Daycare needs: Provide enough labeled bibs for daycare providers to use/rotate.
- Eating style: Messier eaters may require more changes between meals.
- Autoimmune issues: Choose dye/latex/allergen free bibs if dietary limitations.
Think through your individual circumstances and adjust your bib supply accordingly. It’s always better to have too many than not enough!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bibs really necessary?
While not 100% essential, bibs can make life with a messy eater much simpler by containing food spills and dribbles. Most parents find them extremely useful, especially once baby starts solids.
How often should I change baby’s bib?
Aim to change bibs after each feeding or mealtime. Bibs soaked with liquids or loaded with food particles need swapping out for clean ones.
Should I buy designer bibs?
Basic and inexpensive cotton or silicone bibs tend to be the most practical. But if you want to splurge on some cute, patterned designer bibs for occasional use, go for it!
Can I just use burp cloths instead of bibs?
You can, but burp cloths are generally smaller and less absorbent than bibs designed to contain bigger messes. Bibs + burp cloths is the best combination.
How do I get stains out of silicone bibs?
Use a mix of baking soda and water to make a paste and scrub out tough food stains on silicone. Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners that could degrade the material over time.
Table: Quick Guide for How Many Bibs You Need
| Baby’s Age | Number of Bibs Needed |
|---|---|
| Newborn | 10-12 |
| 3-6 months | 6-8 |
| 6+ months | 4-6 |
Conclusion
Finding the right number of bibs for your baby may take some trial and error. Start with the recommended amounts based on age, then tweak as needed. The most important thing is having enough clean bibs on hand to keep your baby clean, dry and comfortable at mealtimes. With a well-stocked bib collection and smart laundering strategy, you’ll be prepared to handle anything your little eater dishes out!
