5 Things to Consider When Buying Newborn Baby Clothes

by Stacie McClintock
Updated July 14, 2017

As a new parent, and especially if you're a first-time parent, your stomach might do flip-flops at the very sight of newborn baby clothes. So small and delicate, they're adorable and hard to resist.

However, your goal should be to fill your baby's closet with practical newborn clothes and avoid items that could potentially make your baby uncomfortable or baby clothes that are a waste of money. You also need to consider softness, durability, and safety; at this age, style should be the last thing on your mind. 

Skip Designer Baby Clothes

A newborn baby lying on a bed
Michael Poehlman / Photographer's Choice / Getty Images

Manufacturers and designers know that baby clothes are hard to resist - and they know that you want to dress your baby in the very best.

But here's the thing, your baby will grow so fast and sleep so much that all those tiny versions of grown up clothes will go to waste; it's like throwing money out the window. 

Save the designer purchases for later on when your baby has grown a bit and will be able to wear them for a longer period of time.

Consider Comfort

Just like you, babies like to be comfortable. Honestly, they could care less whether they're wearing a $35 designer bodysuit or a Gerber onesie that comes three-to-a-pack.

When babies are comfortable, they're happier (which means a more peaceful house) and they sleep better (which means you do too).

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Newborns Sleep A Lot

And I mean a lot! Most newborn babies will sleep up to 18 hours per day!

In reality, that means baby needs comfortable pajamas and coveralls, not outfits.

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You'll Get A Lot of Baby Clothes as Gifts

Baby clothes are the third most-often gifted item at baby showers. It's clear that few are immune to the pull of tiny clothes.

If you want to buy new baby clothes, wait to shop until after your shower. Or, if you really can't resist, consider shopping consignment.

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Be Mindful of Baby Clothes Sizes

When people tell you that babies grow like weeds, they're not kidding. In fact, the general rule of thumb is to double your baby's age to determine his size - at least up until he hits age 2.  

If you try to buy baby clothes too far in advance, you'll just be wasting your money because your baby will never get to wear half of what you bought.

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Edited by Jennifer Nicole Sullivan, Baby Clothes Expert

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