Welcoming a newborn baby into your life is an exciting and enjoyable experience. As new parents, you want to make sure that you prepare everything ahead of time, especially when it comes to clothing. Newborns grow quickly, so it’s important to have enough clothes on hand to keep up with their growth.
In this article, we’ll take a look at how many newborn clothes you need and provide some tips on how to prepare for your little one’s arrival.
The Basics
Before diving into the specifics of newborn clothing, let’s first define what “newborn” really means. Newborn sizes generally refer to clothing designed for babies up to 8 pounds or 21 inches long. However, keep in mind that not all newborns are the same size, and some may require preemie sizes or larger sizes right from birth.
When it comes to basic clothing items, it’s recommended that new parents have around seven to ten onesies or bodysuits, three to five sleepers, and two to four outfits for going out. This should be enough to get you through the first couple of weeks while you adjust to your new routine.
Onesies or Bodysuits
Onesies or bodysuits are a staple in any newborn’s wardrobe. They are comfortable, easy to change, and perfect for layering. You can find them in a variety of styles and materials, ranging from short-sleeved to long-sleeved, cotton to polyester blends.
Newborns tend to go through a lot of onesies in a day due to regular feedings and diaper changes. It’s best to have at least seven to ten on hand to ensure that you always have a clean one available. Keep in mind that accidents happen, and you may need to change your baby’s outfit multiple times a day.
Sleepers
Sleepers are another essential item for newborns. They come as one-piece outfits that zip or snap up the front, making it easy to change your baby’s diaper without having to remove their entire outfit. Like onesies, sleepers come in a variety of styles and materials, including cotton, fleece, and velour.
To get started, it’s recommended that new parents have three to five sleepers on hand. Your baby will likely be sleeping a lot during the first few weeks, so you’ll want to make sure they are comfortable and cozy.
Outfits for Going Out
While onesies and sleepers are perfect for everyday wear, you’ll want to have a few outfits on hand for going out. This can include anything from a cute dress or romper to a more formal outfit for special occasions.
When it comes to going-out outfits, it’s best to have two to four on hand. Keep in mind that your baby will grow quickly during the first few months, so you may not get a lot of use out of these items before they outgrow them.
Other Considerations
In addition to the basic clothing items, there are a few other things to consider when stocking up on newborn clothes. These include:
- Seasonal needs:
If your baby is due during the winter months, you’ll want to make sure you have warm clothing items like jackets, hats, and mittens. Similarly, if your baby is due during the summer, you’ll want to have lightweight clothing items to keep them cool.
- Diaper sizes:
Newborns go through a lot of diapers, so it’s important to make sure you have enough on hand. Keep in mind that different brands may fit differently, so it’s a good idea to have a few different options available.
- Laundry frequency:
With all the spit-up, milk spills, and diaper blowouts, you’ll likely be doing a lot of laundry during the first few months. Make sure you have enough clothing items on hand to get you through a few days between washes.
- Hand-me-downs:
If you have friends or family members with older children, consider asking if they have any baby clothes that they no longer need. Hand-me-downs can be a great way to save money and ensure that you have enough clothing items on hand.
Conclusion
Preparing for a new baby can be overwhelming, but stocking up on newborn clothes doesn’t have to be. By following these guidelines and considering your individual needs, you can ensure that you have enough clothing items on hand to keep up with your little one’s growth and development. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy this special time with your new bundle of joy!
