Should Newborns Wear Pajamas? Understanding Infant Sleepwear

do i need to put newborn in pajamas

Deciding what to dress your newborn in can be a daunting task, especially for new parents. The most important factor to consider is the temperature of the room, not the outside climate. Generally, you will dress your baby in thicker fabrics and more layers in the winter and more breathable fabrics and fewer layers in the summer. The ideal room temperature for a sleeping baby is between 68° and 72°F, and you should dress them in one more layer than you would wear in the same temperature. Onesies, footed pyjamas, and sleep sacks are ideal for helping your baby sleep comfortably without overheating or getting too cold.

Characteristics Values
Number of newborn-sized clothes to buy It depends. While many babies quickly outgrow newborn sizes, it's nice to have some clothes that fit your newborn.
Types of clothes to buy Basics such as onesies, bodysuits, undershirts, and PJs are recommended.
Number of onesies to buy 6 short-sleeved and 6 long-sleeved onesies are recommended for each size range (0-3, 3-6, 6-9, 9-12 months).
Number of sleepers/footie pajamas to buy 4-5 pairs are recommended.
Number of socks to buy 5-6 pairs are recommended.
Dressing newborns for sleep Dress newborns in one additional layer than you would wear.
Ideal room temperature for a sleeping baby 68° to 72°F (20° to 22°C).
Safe sleeping environment Bare crib with a fitted sheet only. No loose sheets, blankets, bumpers, pillows, or stuffed animals.
Swaddling Safe for newborns but discontinue once the baby starts rolling over.
Hats Not recommended for unsupervised sleep as they can slide over the baby's face.

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What to wear in summer

When it comes to dressing your newborn in the summer, the key is to keep them cool and comfortable. Here are some tips to follow:

  • Avoid Overheating: It is important to avoid bundling up your baby too much in the summer months. Instead of sweatshirts, sweatpants, jackets, or blankets, opt for light, breathable clothing that covers their skin.
  • Minimize Layers: While layers can be useful for changing temperatures, avoid too many layers as they can cause your baby to overheat. Pack a light extra layer for unexpected temperature drops or air-conditioned spaces.
  • Choose the Right Fabrics: Opt for organic cotton, linen, or bamboo fabrics for summer clothing. These materials are more breathable and will help your baby stay cool.
  • Consider the TOG Rating: Baby sleepwear and bedding have a 'thermal overall grade' (TOG) rating, which indicates the level of insulation and warmth. Choose lower TOG ratings for summer, such as cotton or muslin.
  • Incorporate Hats: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping babies under 6 months out of direct sunlight. Include wide-brim hats in your baby's wardrobe to protect them from direct sun exposure.
  • Single Layer for Hot Weather: Generally, a single layer of lightweight, breathable cotton is enough to keep your baby comfortable in hot weather.
  • Pram Sunshade: When outdoors, ensure your pram has a clip-on parasol or sunshade to protect your baby from direct sunlight. Do not cover the pram with muslin or blankets, as this can cause overheating.
  • Minimal Nightwear: Keep nightwear and bedding to a minimum during warm nights. A vest or just a nappy may be sufficient. If your baby kicks off the covers, consider leaving them in just a nappy with a well-secured sheet that cannot cover their face or entangle them.
  • Safe Room Temperature: Maintain a room temperature of 16°C to 20°C for sleeping babies. A comfortable and safe option is light bedding or a lightweight, well-fitting baby sleep bag.
  • Avoid Loose Clothing: Ensure your baby's clothing fits properly and is snug. Loose clothing can ride up and potentially cover their face during sleep.
  • Swaddle or Sleep Sack: Consider using a swaddle or sleep sack to provide extra warmth. Choose breathable fabrics like muslin or cotton for summer nights.
  • Short-Sleeve Options: Short-sleeve onesies or bodysuits are ideal for summer. Keep a light layer handy for warmer environments or sudden temperature changes.
  • UV Protection: For sun protection, opt for long-sleeve onesies or lightweight outfits that cover your baby's sensitive skin when outdoors.
  • Breathable Pants: Pair onesies with breathable cotton or organic cotton pants to create a comfortable summer outfit.
  • Monitor for Overheating: Keep an eye on your baby for signs of overheating, such as sweating or a hot tummy. Remove layers or bedding if they feel too warm.
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What to wear in winter

Indoors

It is crucial to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature for your newborn, ideally between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Layering is key to keeping your baby warm, so dress them in one more layer than what you would wear yourself in the same environment. For example, if you're wearing a t-shirt and jumper, dress your baby in a vest, sleepsuit, and cardigan or jumper.

Breathable fabrics are important to prevent your baby from overheating. Merino wool is an excellent choice as it regulates temperature effectively and is breathable, ensuring your baby's skin stays dry.

Bedtime

The ideal sleep temperature for a baby is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. If the nursery is below 68 degrees, you can add an extra layer, such as a onesie and a sleep sack. Fleece footed pajamas are another good option to keep your baby warm.

Swaddling is a great way to make your newborn feel safe and soothed, like they're back in the womb. A cotton or muslin swaddle is a good choice as they are lightweight and breathable. However, once your baby starts to roll over, it's time to stop swaddling and switch to a sleep sack or wearable blanket.

Outdoors

When going outdoors with your newborn in winter, it is essential to plan carefully. Start with thermal layers close to your baby's skin, such as a wool bodysuit. Then, add a long-sleeved shirt and pants, or a snowsuit for extremely cold days.

It is important to protect your baby's head, hands, and feet as these get cold very easily. A hat is essential as babies lose a lot of heat through their heads. Make sure to also include some warm mittens, socks, and booties.

Safety Tips

  • Remove hats and extra clothing as soon as you're indoors or in a warm car, bus, or train.
  • Overheating a baby increases the chances of SIDS.
  • Bulky winter clothing can be a safety concern in car seats. Thick outfits can prevent car seat straps from securing your baby safely. Instead, opt for thin, warm layers.
  • Moisturize your baby's skin as cold air can be drying.
  • When baby-wearing, ensure their airway remains unobstructed.
  • Regularly check your baby's temperature.
  • The ideal room temperature for a sleeping baby is between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius.

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How to check if your baby is comfortable

As a new parent, it can be challenging to determine whether your baby is comfortable, especially since they can't tell you themselves! Here are some ways to help you figure out if your little one is cosy:

  • Check the room temperature: The ideal room temperature for a sleeping baby is between 68°F and 72°F (20°C and 22°C). If the room is too hot or too cold, your baby may be uncomfortable.
  • Feel their skin: Place your hand on your baby's chest, neck, or tummy to check their temperature. If these areas feel hot or sweaty, it's too warm, and you should remove a layer of clothing.
  • Look for physical indicators: Perspiration, rash, wet hair, red cheeks, and quickened breathing could be signs that your baby is too hot. On the other hand, if their hands and feet look slightly blueish, they may be too cold. Note that a baby's extremities might remain cool to the touch, as their circulatory system is still developing.
  • Observe their behaviour: If your baby is fed, changed, and still acting distressed, they may be uncomfortable or too hot or cold.
  • Consider the fabric: Dress your baby in lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, or muslin. Avoid heavy fabrics that don't allow their skin to breathe.
  • Avoid overdressing: It's better to underdress your baby slightly than to overdress them. Overheating is a serious concern and has been linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
  • Adjust for the season: Use thicker fabrics and more layers in winter and more breathable fabrics and fewer layers in summer. In colder months, footed pyjamas, long-sleeved onesies, and sleep sacks are great options. In warmer months, opt for short-sleeved bodysuits, footless sleepsuits, or just a nappy and swaddle.
  • Swaddle: Newborns often respond well to swaddling, as it makes them feel safe and soothed, like they're back in the womb. Use a lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton or muslin, and make sure the swaddle isn't too tight. Stop swaddling once your baby starts rolling over.
  • Footwear: Keep your baby's feet warm with socks or footed pyjamas. However, remember that babies don't mind having their feet exposed in appropriate temperatures.
  • Headwear: Avoid hats or bonnets for sleeping, as they can slide down and cover your baby's face, increasing the risk of suffocation and overheating.

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How to dress a newborn

Basics

The first few weeks with a newborn involve a lot of sleeping, feeding, and changing nappies—and clothes! You'll want to have a few newborn basics on hand, but you'll probably need less than you think. Newborns grow fast, so you'll be moving on to the next size before you know it. Laundry is a constant task, so parents typically decide to buy conservatively and launder frequently.

Temperature

The ideal room temperature for a sleeping baby is between 68° and 72°F. You'll want to dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear yourself in the same temperature. In general, you'll want to dress your baby in thicker fabrics and more layers in the winter and more breathable fabrics and fewer layers in the summer.

What to Wear

Onesies, bodysuits, and footed pyjamas are ideal for helping your baby sleep comfortably without being too hot or cold. You can also use sleep sacks, which are wearable blankets that zip or snap around your baby, providing a safe and cosy sleeping environment.

In warm weather, a short-sleeved bodysuit or summer baby pyjamas underneath a lightweight sleep sack should keep your baby comfortable and safe through the night. If it's very warm, a footless sleepsuit or bodysuit on its own should be fine.

In cooler temperatures, you can dress your baby in a long-sleeved onesie or bodysuit, and add a pair of socks if their feet feel cold. If it's very cold, you may want to add mittens, too. You can also use a swaddle or a wearable blanket, which can help young infants feel safe and soothed, like they're back in the womb.

Safety

It's important to avoid loose clothing, hats, hoods, or any type of head covering, as these can slip over your baby's face and increase the risk of suffocation and overheating. You should also avoid clothing with loose parts, strings, or cords, as these can pose a safety hazard. Always opt for snug-fitting clothing.

Laundry

When laundering newborn clothes, choose a gentle, baby-friendly detergent to protect your baby's sensitive skin. Always pre-wash new clothing to remove any residues, and use a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent shrinkage and preserve fabric softness.

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How many newborn clothes do you need?

The number of newborn clothes you need depends on a few factors, such as the season your baby is born, how often you plan to do laundry, and your baby's growth rate. Here is a detailed guide to help you determine how many newborn clothes you may need:

Onesies and Bodysuits:

Get 6-8 onesies or bodysuits in both short and long sleeves. These are essential for layering under other clothes and can be used alone during warmer months. They are also useful for preventing scratches and are easy to clean in case of any messes.

Pants and Leggings:

3-4 pairs of pants or leggings will be sufficient. Look for soft and cozy fabrics that are easy to pull over diapers. Avoid tight waistbands that might press on your baby's tummy.

Pajamas and Sleepers:

4-5 pairs of pajamas or sleepers are recommended. You can choose between footed pajamas or gowns. Some parents prefer to keep their newborns in pajamas during the day, so you may need a few extra pairs. Include a mix of snaps and zippers to see which you prefer.

Special Occasion Outfits:

You will likely only need 1-3 special outfits for occasions like coming home from the hospital, family photos, or meeting loved ones. These can be more elaborate or fancy outfits.

Socks:

5-6 pairs of socks should be enough. Baby socks are inexpensive and tend to fall off, so having a few pairs on hand is a good idea. Depending on the season, you may not need to use them often.

Beanies and Hats:

While these are cute and can provide warmth, they are not necessary for newborns, especially during sleep, as they can increase the risk of overheating. If you plan to go out in colder weather, 2-3 beanies can help keep your baby warm.

Seasonal Considerations:

If your baby is born during colder months, you may need slightly more clothes to keep them warm. Fleece footed pajamas, a few extra bodysuits, and a warmer sleep sack or swaddle may be needed. For summer babies, focus on lightweight and breathable fabrics, and you may need fewer layers.

Laundry Considerations:

Keep in mind that newborns tend to go through multiple outfit changes in a day due to messes and spit-ups. If you plan to do laundry frequently (every day or every other day), you can get away with having fewer clothes. If you prefer to do larger laundry loads less often, having more clothes on hand will be helpful.

In summary, for the first two months or so, you will likely need around 4-8 of each essential clothing item, depending on the factors mentioned above. You can always purchase more if needed or ask for clothes as gifts from friends and family.

Frequently asked questions

The ideal room temperature for a sleeping baby is between 68° and 72°F.

Newborns typically need 4-5 pairs of pajamas.

No, it is not safe for babies to sleep with hats, hoods, or any type of head covering.

Natural, lightweight, and breathable fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, and muslin are best for newborn pajamas.

Swaddling is safe for newborns and can help them feel safe and soothed, but it should be stopped once they start to roll over.

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