Newborn Clothing Essentials: How Much Is Enough?

There are many different opinions on how many newborn clothes you need, but most sources agree that you will need at least 10-15 items. Some parents suggest having enough clothes on hand for two weeks, while others recommend having at least 14 newborn clothing options (two for each day of the week). It's also important to consider the season and temperature when preparing your newborn's wardrobe. For example, if you're having a winter baby, you'll need to stock up on leggings, socks, and hats. On the other hand, if you're having a summer baby, simple clothes and layers such as onesies and dresses are usually enough.

How many onesies does a newborn need?

The number of onesies a newborn needs can vary depending on several factors, including the season of their birth, your baby's growth rate, and your laundry routine. Here are some guidelines and tips to help you determine how many onesies to prepare for your newborn:

Seasonality

The season your baby is born in will impact the number and type of onesies you need. If your baby is born during the summer, you will likely need more short-sleeved or sleeveless onesies, while a winter baby will require more long-sleeved onesies to stay warm.

Growth Rate

Babies grow at different rates, and this will affect how long they stay in each clothing size. Some babies may outgrow newborn sizes within a few weeks, while others may fit into them for a couple of months. It's a good idea to monitor your baby's growth and adjust your onesie supply accordingly.

Laundry Routine

Your laundry routine will also play a role in determining the number of onesies you need. If you do laundry frequently, you may not need as many onesies. On the other hand, if laundry day is less frequent in your household, having more onesies on hand will ensure your baby always has a clean one to wear.

Recommendations

Based on the above factors, it is generally recommended to have at least three onesies in the newborn size, especially if you live in a warmer climate. For the 0-3 month size, having 8-10 onesies is a good starting point, with a mix of long-sleeved and short-sleeved options depending on the season. You can always adjust and purchase more if needed.

It's worth noting that some babies never even fit into newborn sizes, so it's a good idea to have a few options in the next size up as well. Additionally, consider opting for onesies with built-in footies that allow for sufficient length so your baby can move around freely.

What other types of clothing does a newborn need?

When it comes to newborn babies, less is more. You will be doing lots of laundry in those early weeks, so it's best to have a paired-back list of basics.

In addition to onesies, which are a must-have, here is a list of other clothing items your newborn baby will need:

• Bodysuits and/or undershirts: Simple cotton bodysuits are inexpensive, easy to launder, and simple to put on and take off tiny baby bodies. Go for both short and long-sleeved varieties depending on the season.
• Leggings: Cotton leggings are soft and cosy and easy to pull over a baby's diaper and bodysuit.
• Pajamas, sleepers, and/or footies: Choose a few pairs of footie PJs along with a couple of gowns. You may want to add a couple more to your baby's wardrobe if you plan to keep them in PJs during the day.
• Special occasion outfits: You'll likely be dressing your newborn in easy basics most of the time, but it's nice to have at least one special outfit for coming home from the hospital, family photos, or meeting friends and family.
• Socks: Baby socks are inexpensive and sold in multi-packs.
• Hats: Baby beanies will keep your newborn warm and feeling secure during the day. Just remember to remove them before putting your baby down for naps and nighttime sleep.

Creating a versatile wardrobe for your newborn is economical and fun. Select pieces that are interchangeable to maximise outfit combinations while minimising clutter. Start with a base of neutral-coloured bodysuits and onesies, and add in multi-use items like reversible jackets or dual-sided bibs.

How many outfits does a newborn need in total?

It's important to prepare your wardrobe with some newborn essentials. You'll want a newborn outfit or two to take with you to the hospital, as well as plenty of other options to change your little one into when you welcome them home. If you're having a winter baby, it's a good idea to consider leggings, socks, and hats. On average, it's best to have at least 14 newborn clothing options (two for each day of the week).

Newborns struggle to regulate their body temperature, so layers are crucial. Long-sleeved onesies and long-sleeve sleepwear are both good ideas. You can also match onesies with shirts. A knotted gown or sleep sack (paired with an extra layer underneath) is a perfect option for a newborn-size outfit.

It's worth keeping things simple, as many babies will grow out of the newborn stage quickly. Avoid any overly fancy garments if you want to make sure they get plenty of wear.

You'll be changing a lot of newborn clothes, so it's a good idea to have a few basics on hand. You probably need less than you think. Laundry is constant in those first few weeks at home, so parents typically decide to buy conservatively, launder frequently, and get as much use as possible out of these tiny basics.

• 6 to 8 bodysuits and/or onesies
• 3 to 4 pairs of pants and/or leggings
• 4 to 5 pairs of pyjamas, sleepers, and/or footies
• 1 to 3 special occasion outfits
• 5 to 6 pairs of socks

Creating a versatile wardrobe for your newborn is not only economical but also fun and stylish. The key is selecting pieces that are interchangeable, maximising outfit combinations while minimising clutter.

What are the best materials for newborn clothing?

When it comes to choosing the best materials for newborn clothing, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to select fabrics that are soft, comfortable, and safe for your baby's sensitive skin. Here are some of the best options:

Natural Materials

Natural materials such as cotton, linen, and wool are excellent choices for newborn clothing. They are soft, breathable, and gentle on your baby's skin. Cotton is a versatile option that can be used for various garments, including shirts, dresses, and underwear. It is also durable, moisture-absorbent, and allows air to pass through, keeping your baby comfortable. Linen is another breathable fabric ideal for summer clothing. It is lightweight and pleasant to the body, but it may require frequent washing due to its light colour. Wool is perfect for the cold season as it maintains body temperature without causing sweating. However, wool requires careful washing as it is a sensitive material.

Bamboo

Bamboo is an excellent choice for newborn clothing as it is soft, environmentally friendly, wear-resistant, and thermoregulatory. It protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation and absorbs moisture and odours effectively. Bamboo fabric retains its original appearance even after multiple washes, making it a practical choice for baby clothes. You can find various bamboo products, including towels, diapers, sheets, and bathrobes.

Gauze

Gauze is a breathable, soft, and stretchy fabric ideal for summer clothing and underwear. It is gentle on the skin and often used for items such as diapers, hats, booties, and blouses. The edges of gauze clothing are sometimes left unprocessed to ensure maximum comfort for your baby.

Interlock

Interlock fabric is a good choice for babies with sensitive skin. It is made from 100% cotton, providing warmth and a pleasant texture. Interlock stretches well and does not cause redness, allergies, or irritations, making it a safe option for newborns.

Silk

Silk is a natural fabric with a slightly shiny appearance, making it ideal for formal wear. However, it tends to fade in the sun, so it may not be suitable for extremely hot summers.

When choosing clothing for your newborn, it is essential to avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester. These materials can irritate sensitive skin and even trigger allergies or asthma. Opt for natural fibres and soft, breathable fabrics to ensure your baby's comfort and well-being.

How often will I need to wash newborn clothes?

How much laundry you'll need to do

It's likely that you'll be washing newborn clothes often, as babies tend to go through several outfits a day due to spit-up, diaper leaks, and other messes. One parent reported that their newborn went through 3-4 outfits a day, while another reported using up to 7 outfits in a single day.

How many outfits you'll need

The number of outfits you'll need for your newborn will depend on how often you want to do laundry. If you want to avoid daily laundry, it's recommended to have at least 14 newborn clothing options (two for each day of the week). Some parents suggest having enough clothes for two weeks, or about 10-15 onesies, 7-10 pairs of pants/leggings, and 4-5 pairs of pajamas.

Laundry tips for newborn clothes

When laundering newborn clothes, it's important to use 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. Regularly check for loose buttons or threads to ensure safety. Air drying is best for maintaining clothing quality, but if using a dryer, choose a low-heat, delicate setting.

Frequently asked questions