Anyone who is already a mom will tell you to avoid spending gobs on money on newborn clothes.
They grow out of them so quickly (and some babies skip right over the newborn sizes). Most advise buying clothes in multiple sizes and returning whatever it is you don’t use.Still, you only get to bring home baby for the the first time once. Many moms and dads-to-be want that outfit to be just right. It should be comfortable but cute. It should travel well. And (maybe) most importantly, it should photograph well.Comfort is Key
Anything lacy or fancy should be saved for another occasion. Baby skin is so soft and sensitive, which means you should stick to ultra-soft organic cottons, and avoid anything that might irritate your little one. Give the fabric a feel test, and make sure there are no too-tight elastics, or exposed buttons or snaps that might scratch the skin.
Wash Before Wear
All baby clothes should be washed prior to wear. While it is not absolutely necessary to wash the baby clothes in a special detergent, many new parents do, preferring a detergent that is free and clear of dyes. Dreft laundry detergent is specially formulated for baby clothes and is the most recommended baby laundry detergent by pediatricians. Also great, The Honest Company’s superior hypoallergenic laundry care. It is made free of: SLS, synthetic perfume, glycol, enzymes, dyes, phosphates, 1,4-dioxane, chlorine, DEA, formaldehyde, petrochemicals, caustics & optical brighteners.
Many parents also avoid using a dryer sheet or fabric softener because those products can potentially reduce the flame resistant nature of flame resistant labeled garments.
Your Going to Swaddle
Cute clothing aside, newborns love to be bundled, and they will spend the majority of their first minutes, hours, days swaddled and topped off with a hat. Just keep that in mind and if you’re big on coordinating, there are many layette set options that come with matching blankets.
What Month Will It Be
As a general rule of thumb, infants need one additional layer of clothing over what an adult needs. So consider the season and plan your purchase. If it’s going to be hot, a single layer of clothing is fine, plus lightweight receiving blanket. aden + anais make breathable and adorable muslin options.
Snap On, Snap Off
The clothing should be easy on, easy off. The neck opening should be wide, or have the ability to stretch or get larger with snaps or extra buttons. The last thing you want to do is try and make the clothing fit the baby. If it’s too complicated, it’s not best.
Just Like a Tire, Carry a Spare
Baby loves you, but baby doesn’t care how long you’ve carefully considered its first outfit. If they happen to make their first mess on your perfectly coordinated getup, you better have a backup.
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