Important information when buying baby clothes
Differences between a bodysuit, outfit and cardigan
A bodysuit fastens under the diaper, keeping it in place as a base layer. An outfit also covers the legs. A cardigan opens at the front and can be removed as a separate layer. Choose the fastenings and fabric you find comfortable for each item; one does not always replace another.
How many bodysuits and outfits should you buy?
Use the checklist as a starting point and adjust quantities to your laundry routine, gifted clothes and your baby’s growth. Spread your first supply across two sizes. With a bodysuit, compare how the neckline opens; with an outfit, check how you reach the diaper. Pants with a separate top are an alternative to a one-piece outfit.
When are a cardigan and socks useful?
A cardigan is a separate layer that is easy to remove. Socks can go with pants without feet; an outfit with enclosed feet does not automatically need extra socks. Check whether the elastic fits comfortably and whether there are loose threads inside. Buy small quantities so you can assess the fit first.
Does your baby need a hat after birth?
Use a hat after birth according to your care team’s advice on keeping your baby warm. It is not a standard part of sleepwear in bed. During the first week after birth, ask which combination of clothing and bedding suits your baby.
Which outdoor clothing suits the season?
Choose layers you can adjust when moving indoors from outside. In a car seat, check that the harness fits snugly; thick padded clothing can prevent this. Follow the seat manual. Also check cords on hoods and clothing: the NVWA warns about snagging and entanglement.
What should you check in a sun hat?
Look for a good fit and a brim that provides shade. A hat does not make direct sunlight suitable for a young baby. Keep babies in the shade as much as possible and do not cover the pushchair with a cloth. Buy a hat in a size that fits now.
What can you wash, store and pass on?
Read the label before washing new or gifted clothes. You do not need special baby detergent for this clothing. Store outgrown sizes in a basket or box you already own and check gifted clothes for loose parts and damage.
Best baby clothes: what suits your family?
The white bodysuit is an example of a base layer, the sand-colored sleepsuit of an all-in-one outfit and the taupe cardigan of a separate layer. Start with the size, fastenings and care instructions that work for you at home. These examples serve different purposes; you do not need to buy them as a set.