Table of Contents
ToggleWhy Selecting the Ideal Outfit for Your Newborn is ImportantThe Complete Newborn Clothing Checklist1. Onesies (Short and Long Sleeve) – 6 to 10 Pieces2. Sleepers / Footed Pyjamas – 5 to 7 Pieces3. Swaddle Blankets and Sleep Sacks – 2 to 4 Pieces4. Soft Beanie Hats – 2 to 3 Pieces5. Socks and Booties – 4 to 6 Pairs6. Mittens – 2 to 4 Pairs7. Kimono Tops or Side-Snap Shirts – 2 to 4 Pieces8. Pants or Leggings – 3 to 5 Pairs9. Warm Outer Layer – 1 to 2 Pieces10. Special Occasion Outfits – 1 to 2 Pieces (optional)How Many Clothes Do You Really Need?Pro Shopping Tips for Newborn ClothingWhat to Skip (for Now)Final Thoughts: Building a Baby Wardrobe That Works
Having a child is nothing short of a wondrous experience. It can be very daunting for a person, especially when combined with a lack of sleep. And for those who are first-time parents, there is a new blast of wondrous difficulties that pile on top of everything else.
What should you get during the first month?
Don’t worry, we’ve peppered every inch of the guide with insight that has been compiled over the years, ensuring that every stitch of the baby’s outfit works wonders, from the undeniable comfort alongside effortless ease of maintenance. No more brace yourself laundry sessions or frantic wardrobe misadventures during unearthly hours.
Why Selecting the Ideal Outfit for Your Newborn is Important
A newborn is not merely a miniature human that needs dressing. Their skin is extremely delicate, their body temperature alters easily, and they sleep and feed for most of their day. Hence, their clothes need to:
Soft and breathable fabric like cotton or bamboo should be used.
They should be simple to put on and remove. (Hello midnight diaper changes).
During particular seasons, they should provide a mix of warmth and ventilation.
There should be no irritating tags, harsh seams, or tight elastics.
Well-designed newborn clothes assist in avoiding skin rashes, overheating, and discomfort. They also make the lives of new parents easier during the fourth trimester fitted with all the joy and chaos.
The Complete Newborn Clothing Checklist
Now, let’s dive into details. Here is an organized summary of what your newborn requires categorised in sections.
1. Onesies (Short and Long Sleeve) – 6 to 10 Pieces
Reason: Any baby’s attire would be incomplete without onesies also known as bodysuits. They snap at the crotch, which makes diaper changes a breeze, and they are available in both short and long sleeves to allow for layering.
Therefore:
Avoid pulling clothing over baby’s head by selecting envelope style necklines or snap closures at the shoulders.
Babies outgrow sizes quickly, so stock up in simple patterns and neutral tones.
Seasonal Note: Add more short sleeves for spring/summer newborns and go heavier on long sleeves for autumn/winter babies.
2. Sleepers / Footed Pyjamas – 5 to 7 Pieces
Single pyjama style outfits that can be worn both during the day and night are known as footies or onesie pyjamas, also called ‘sleepers’. Sleepers are soft enough to be worn at night and warm during the day.
Look for:
For more convenience when changing, front zippers rather than buttons.
Warmth for little toes and hands can be provided by footies and convertible cuffs (built-in mittens).
Fabric tip: Sleepwear is best of bamboo or cotton that has a bit of stretch.
3. Swaddle Blankets and Sleep Sacks – 2 to 4 Pieces
Why: Newborns wrapped in swaddles tend to sleep better as it imitates the snug environment of the womb. You will switch to sleep sacks once babies start rolling.
Types to consider:
Lightweight multipurpose muslin swaddles
Great for beginners, velcro or zip swaddles
Safe alternatives to loose bedding, sleep sacks which are wearable blankets.
Pro tip: There’s no need to go all out here — you will find out what your baby likes quite quickly.
4. Soft Beanie Hats – 2 to 3 Pieces
Why: Babies quickly lose heat from their heads. A beanie or hat helps keep them warm, especially in colder areas because babies have a very delicate way of keeping their body temperatures in check.
Use case: Perfect for hospital visits, outdoor strolls, and air-conditioned areas.
Avoid: Heavy knit caps indoors because of the real threat of overheating.
5. Socks and Booties – 4 to 6 Pairs
Why: Socks and booties keep baby feet warm especially before babies start walking because baby’s feet are embodied in cuteness but end up with less movement tend to get cold.
Check for:
Soft elastic that won’t restrict blood circulation to the legs.
Tying or Velcro booties for easier wearing and better fit.
Pro tip: Newborn socks tend to disappear in the laundry. To keep pairs together, place them in a laundry mesh bag.
6. Mittens – 2 to 4 Pairs
Why: Without supporting help such as babies, a newborn tends to scratch their faces uncontrollably. Mittens help protect the face from the danger of sharp baby nails.
Buy or DIY? Many onesies come with built-in mittens so if you don’t have any a few cotton pairs under the bed will do.
7. Kimono Tops or Side-Snap Shirts – 2 to 4 Pieces
Why: In the beginning, these open-front tops are easier to manage than over-the-head styles and are more gentle on a healing belly button.
Extra bonus: Gentle for skin-to-skin contact. Great in the first weeks.
8. Pants or Leggings – 3 to 5 Pairs
Why: While onesies are great by themselves, having pants allows for more versatility when it comes to outfit changes, especially when only one part gets dirty (which it will).
Fabric check: Go for soft, stretchy waistbands that will not irritate the belly.
Fun tip: No need to buy entire outfits, simply mix and match with bodysuits for cute sets.
9. Warm Outer Layer – 1 to 2 Pieces
Why: Depending on the season, your baby may need:
Fleece bunting or baby snowsuit (for winter).
Cotton hoodie or cardigan (for spring/autumn).
Safety tip: Coats should not be bulky in car seats. Instead, use a blanket or specially designed car seat cover.
10. Special Occasion Outfits – 1 to 2 Pieces (optional)
Why: Not necessary, but a couple of extra “nicer” outfits can be great for photos, holidays, or grandma’s first visit.
Look for: Comfort + ease. Avoid stiff or complicated fastenings.
How Many Clothes Do You Really Need?
It depends on how often you plan to do laundry — and how messy your baby is. Here’s a quick starter guide:
Item
Suggested Quantity
Onesies
6–10
Sleepers
5–7
Swaddles/Sleep sacks
2–4
Hats
2–3
Socks/Booties
4–6 pairs
Mittens
2–4 pairs
Kimono tops
2–4
Pants/Leggings
3–5
Outerwear
1–2
Special outfits
1–2 (optional)
Add or subtract based on your climate, baby’s size, and laundry habits.
Pro Shopping Tips for Newborn Clothing
Go one size up if you’re not sure. Babies outgrow sizes quickly. When in doubt particularly with outerwear or sleepwear, go for the next size up.
Keep looking for ease of use. Snaps can be a pain, so go for zippers and for necks please get envelope ones. Also, make sure they are machine washable because it will save your sanity.
Don’t go for any embellishments. Avoid sequins, buttons or anything else that is or can be a choking hazard.
Pay attention to seasonal sales. Purchasing items out-of-season can be a fantastic way to get better value for money.
What to Skip (for Now)
There are super adorable baby clothes that you are better off saving for later. You can skip:
Shoes: Why get them when they don’t start walking?
Fancy dresses or button-up shirts: They are absolutely cute but oh so impractical.
Jeans or stiff pants: Not suitable at all for newborns as they are too uncomfortable.
Overly layered clothing: Babies don’t like being overheated or constricted.
Final Thoughts: Building a Baby Wardrobe That Works
Your newborn won’t care if they are dressed in hand-me-down cotton basics or designer babywear. However, they will care if the outfit is too hot, tight or complicated. Therefore make sure to focus on comfort, practicality, and ease of use.
As always, prepare for your essentials ahead of time. Don’t worry if you forget something, because that is why online shopping exist.
When it comes to stocking up on essentials, planning out a hospital bag, setting up a baby registry, or even taking the first steps into parenthood, we designed the checklist to assist you in optimising your baby’s first clothes.
Ordinary and elegant essentials that parents love? Visit PatPat to find that the term “newborn collection” embodies ease and elegance, proving that low prices can be high quality.
