Essential Baby Clothing: What New Parents Need and What to Leave Out

Newborns don't need as many clothing items as you think.

To start, a newborn needs very few clothing items, far fewer than what is typically purchased. A basic layer to keep the baby warm and a swaddle blanket are all that's necessary in the cooler temperatures. In the United States, newborns are dressed in a simple, inexpensive "onesie" and diapers, then swaddled in a light blanket. This setup keeps the baby warm, comfortable, and consolidated to ensure good sleep and speed up diaper changes. Since diaper changes occur hourly for the first month, this is a significant time-saver.

Considerations for Spitting-up Babies

For some babies, spitting up can be a significant issue. If this applies to your child, it's crucial to invest in bibs. Bibs are a much more affordable option compared to outfits and require minimal effort to launder. If you have to change your bibs several times during a feed, bibs offer an easier and more practical solution than changing baby's shirts every time. Breastfeeding can also help reduce spitting up, as breastfed babies often spit up less due to the self-digestive properties of breastmilk. However, it's important to note that formula feeding can sometimes be unavoidable and essential.

The Right Amount of Clothing

If you're expecting another child, consider the following purchases:

A half-dozen newborn shirts A 3-pack of light blankets A 3-pack of slightly heavier blankets Up to 20 bibs

Keep all receipts in case you need to return some items. If it's a summer baby, you might skip the slightly heavier blankets. If your baby is a regular spitter-up, purchase a couple more packs of light blankets.

Swaddling: An Essential Skill

While at the hospital, make sure to learn the proper way to swaddle your baby. Practice swaddling as much as possible. For new parents, I strongly advise getting the swaddle technique perfect from the very beginning. It will help the baby sleep, provide comfort, and make the early weeks much easier.

Note: When you begin introducing solid foods around 6 months, bibs will become essential for clean-up. However, your baby may have doubled in size and weight, so newborn bibs are likely too small. These bibs can be repurposed as excellent cleaning cloths and face-wipers.

Conclusion

Parenting is an overwhelming task, but with the right essentials, you can make your journey smoother. Understanding the baby's needs and preparing accordingly can make a significant difference. Remember, it's all about balance and practicality—choosing the right clothes and supplies, and using them effectively.