Congratulations on your growing family! Getting your baby’s first wardrobe ready is one of the most enjoyable parts of waiting, but with so many tiny, beautiful things to choose from, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. This checklist covers the newborn clothes you will really use.
The newborn essentials
- Babygrows: every newborn needs several. Choose soft, breathable cotton, with a mix of short and long sleeves for changing weather.
- Sleepsuits: for naps and bedtime. Look for poppers or zips that make night-time nappy changes quick.
- Vests and bodysuits: the base layer under almost everything. Stock up, because babies get through plenty.
- Socks and booties: choose ones with elasticated cuffs that stay put.
- Hats and mittens: gentle cotton keeps a baby’s head and hands warm without irritating delicate skin.
- Muslin cloths and swaddles: endlessly useful for swaddling, burping and mopping up.
- Cardigans and jumpers: easy layers that slip on and off as the temperature changes.
- Bottoms: soft leggings and trousers with elastic waistbands.
- Dresses and rompers: for special days, or just to add some cuteness to everyday wear.
- Outerwear: a warm jacket, snowsuit or raincoat, depending on the season.
- A special outfit or two: for family visits, holidays or your first photos.
- Accessories: headbands, bows or bibs, as long as they are comfortable and safe.
Kimono-style bodysuits and sets
These wrap around the chest and fasten with snaps or ties at the side, so nothing has to go over your baby’s head. That makes them especially easy in the first one to two weeks, until the umbilical cord falls off. Browse our newborn girl outfits and newborn boy outfits.
Sizing and sustainability
Babies grow fast, so buy a range of sizes rather than a lot of newborn pieces. Handing clothes down from sibling to sibling saves money and cuts down on waste. Wash everything at 30 degrees before the first wear, so it is clean and free of irritants.
With this list in hand, you are ready to welcome your little one in style. See our new arrivals for baby clothes in soft, comfortable fabrics.