Buying clothes for a newborn

Here's a list of useful tips and advice to help you out with the purchase of clothing for your newborn baby... to make the whole dressing experience that much easier for both of you.

• Whatever sizing system the manufacturer uses, make sure that you buy a size that will last until your baby's at least two months old. He won't be bothered if it's slightly too big and it's more practical than the newborn size, which he'll quickly grow out of.

• Buy only machine-washable, colourfast clothing for your baby.

• Make sure that any clothing you buy allows easy access to the nappy, so there's the minimum of undressing involved. Stretch suits with poppers in the crotch or right down the front and legs are the easiest to put on.

• In the early weeks you may find it simplest to use nightdresses that can just be lifted up to get at the nappy.

• Clothes that open down the front or have wide, envelope necks are the best because babies hate having their faces covered.

• Clothes that fasten up the front also mean that you don't have to turn your baby over when you're dressing him.

• Material should be soft and comfortable with no hard seams or rough stitching; check the neck and waistband before buying. Buy towelling, cotton or pure wool clothes; if you buy clothes made of man-made fibres do check that they feel soft and comfortable.

• Buy non-flammable clothing.

• Avoid lacy shawls or cardigans - your baby's tiny fingers can easily get caught in the holes.

• Avoid white - it gets dirty quickly and needs more care when washing. Babies suit bright colours just as much as the pastels traditionally specified for them.

• If you do buy a hat either buy one with a chinstrap, or sew some ribbons on. Many babies hate wearing hats and pull them off unless they're tied on under their chins.

Dr Miriam Stoppard

New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard

Posted 03.11.2010

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