The Importance Of Pants For Newborns

Newborns are delicate and need to be clothed with care. Their wardrobe should include essentials like bodysuits, pants, tops, and sleepers. In fall or winter, it's good to add extra layers like socks. When it comes to dressing a newborn, it's important to be gentle and avoid irritating their skin. Footed pajamas are popular for nighttime, while bodysuits and swaddle blankets work well for warmer nights. In warm weather, bodysuits and short-sleeved rompers keep babies cool. In cold weather, it's crucial to cover their heads, arms, legs, and hands. It's also important to avoid overdressing newborns as they can easily overheat. Dressing them in layers similar to what an adult would wear is a good rule of thumb.

Newborns and pants: a pain or a necessity?

The great pant debate

When it comes to dressing newborns, opinions vary on whether pants are a necessity or an unnecessary pain. Some parents swear by pants to keep their little ones warm and covered, while others find them cumbersome and prefer to stick with onesies or rompers. So, what's the verdict? Do newborns really need pants?

The case for pants

One argument in favour of pants is that they can provide extra warmth, especially in colder months. Newborns have trouble regulating their body temperature, so adding a layer of pants can be helpful. Additionally, some parents feel that pants offer more coverage and protection for the diaper area. This can be especially useful when taking babies outdoors or when they start crawling and exploring.

The case against pants

On the other hand, many parents find that pants can be more hassle than they're worth, especially when it comes to diaper changes. Pants can make diaper changes more complicated and time-consuming, which is less than ideal when dealing with a squirming baby. This is especially true for pants with buttons or snaps, which can be tricky to navigate. Additionally, in warmer months, pants may cause overheating, and onesies or short-sleeved rompers are often sufficient.

Striking a balance

So, what's the solution? It seems that the answer may lie in striking a balance. For the first few weeks, many parents prefer to avoid pants altogether, especially while the umbilical cord is healing. Onesie and footed sleepers or rompers are usually sufficient and make diaper changes a breeze. As babies get older, pants can be introduced, especially if they provide extra warmth or coverage.

The bottom line

Ultimately, the decision to put newborns in pants comes down to personal preference and the climate. While pants can offer warmth and coverage, they may also complicate diaper changes. The key is to dress babies appropriately for the weather, keeping them comfortable and safe. Whether it's a onesie, romper, or pants, the most important thing is that newborns are kept cosy and happy.

The best types of pants for newborns

Newborns don't need a huge variety of outfits, especially in their first few weeks of life. However, when it comes to pants, there are a few options to consider for your baby's comfort and your convenience. Here are some of the best types of pants for newborns:

Footie Pants

Footie pants are pants with built-in feet, eliminating the need for socks or booties. They are a great option for newborns as they are less likely to kick them off and keep their feet warm. They are also easier to put on and take off than regular pants, making diaper changes a bit easier.

Leggings

Cotton leggings are a good choice for newborns as they are soft, cosy, and easy to pull over a diaper and bodysuit. Look for leggings with a loose waistband that won't press into the baby's tummy. Leggings are also great for layering under dresses or other outfits.

Pants with Elasticated Waistbands

Pants with elasticated waistbands are easier to put on and take off than those with fixed waistbands. They are also more comfortable for the baby as they can accommodate their growing belly.

Pants that Go with Onesies

Onesies are a staple for newborns, and you can pair them with pants in complementary colours or patterns. Look for pants made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo.

Pants with Feet

Newborns often kick off their socks, so pants with built-in feet can be a good option. Just make sure they are not too tight around the feet and ankles, as this can restrict circulation.

In addition to these options, you can also consider sleep gowns, which are open at the bottom or can be tied in a knot. They are extremely convenient for middle-of-the-night diaper changes and can be adjusted as the baby grows.

Where to buy newborn pants

Newborns don't need pants, especially during the summer months. However, if you're looking to buy some, there are plenty of options available.

• Target has newborn pants available, with some users reporting that they can be found in the aisle with the packs of clothes, near the baby blankets.
• Amazon offers a wide range of newborn pants with various styles, materials, and colours to choose from.
• Walmart is a great option for affordable newborn pants, with some users finding pants for as low as $2.
• Kohl's offers a variety of newborn pants, including brands such as Carter's, Jumping Beans, and Little Co. by Lauren Conrad.
• Gerber sells 3-packs of sleepers with zippers at Walmart and Target, which are great for fall and winter babies as you can put a onesie underneath.
• Old Navy has newborn pants that aren't denim.
• Carter's sells multiple packs of baby pants, although they may be harder to find during the summer months.
• Second-hand stores and garage sales are excellent options for finding newborn pants at a fraction of the cost.
• Online marketplaces such as Craigslist and Kijiji often have listings for used baby clothes, including pants.

How to dress a newborn in pants

Step 1: Prepare the pants

First, gather the leg material of the pants and slowly pull them over the newborn's legs and diaper area. If the pants are not all the way over the diaper, pick up the newborn and bring the back of the pants up to their waist.

Step 2: Dress the newborn

When putting on the pants, ensure that the newborn's entire body, including their head and neck, remains stationary and supported.

Step 3: Check the fit

If the pants are too long, you can roll them up, or buy pants with built-in feet, also known as "footies".

Step 4: Add layers

Depending on the season, you may need to add extra layers to keep the newborn warm. In winter, this could include a vest, sleepsuit, cardigan, or jumper. In summer, a single layer of lightweight cotton is usually enough.

Step 5: Accessories

You may also want to add accessories such as socks, hats, or mittens to keep the newborn warm. Just be sure to remove any extra clothing as soon as you go indoors or get into a warm car, bus, or train.

When to dress a newborn in pants

Newborn Clothing Basics

A newborn's wardrobe should include a few basic essentials. These include at least five to seven bodysuits, pants, tops, and sleepers. It is also good to have several pairs of socks, especially in the colder months.

How to Change a Newborn’s Clothes

When changing a newborn's clothes, it is important to be gentle and careful as they cannot move their head or neck on their own. Gather the material on each side of the outfit's collar and slowly stretch it open until it forms a wide oval or circle. Pull the top over the baby's head, being careful not to let the collar touch their ears or hair. Reach back and pull the bottom bodysuit tab or shirt material downwards to make it easier to guide their arms into the sleeves. Pull the left sleeve to the side and gather the material before guiding the baby's arm through the sleeve. Do the same on the right side and then pull the remainder of the shirt or bodysuit down. Snap the garment closed. When putting on leggings or pants, gather the leg material and slowly pull the garment over the baby's legs and diaper area.

Dressing Baby for Sleep

Newborns get cold easily and have trouble regulating their body temperature, so footed pajamas are a popular choice for nighttime. If the temperature falls below 70°F, add a heavier cotton swaddle or a fleece wearable blanket. If the temperature is above 70°F, a bodysuit and swaddle blanket or sleep sack will do. Muslin and cotton fabrics are great choices for an extra layer in the spring or summer.

Clothing Baby in Warm Weather

In warm weather, a newborn should wear something to help them stay cool. Bodysuits and short-sleeved rompers are perfect choices. Adding shorts on top of a one-piece is also a good option. Tops and matching shorts sets are popular too. If the baby will be in the sun, protect them from harmful UV rays with a hat made from UV-blocking material.

Newborn Clothes for Cold Weather

In cold temperatures, it is important to keep a newborn warm by covering their head, arms, legs, hands, and feet. They should always wear a hat outdoors in the fall and winter. Socks, pants, and long sleeves are a must. Finish with gloves and a hoodie or heavy jacket as needed.

Dressing Baby Indoors

If the indoor temperature is on the cooler side, put socks on the baby's feet. Footed pajamas are often the go-to outfit for the first two months, while bodysuits become more common around month three. As long as the baby is eating and sleeping well, they are probably wearing the right amount of clothing. Check the back of the baby's neck or the top of their chest to see if they are too hot or cold.

Keeping Your Newborn Well-Clothed and Happy

When it comes to clothing, the newborn phase is fairly simple. Focus on gathering the essential outfits and follow the proper dressing techniques. With practice, each changing will become second nature!

Frequently asked questions