How Many Outfits Does Your Newborn Really Need? (2024)

FAQs

How many outfits do you really need for a newborn? ›

Layers are crucial with newborns, as they struggle to regulate their own body temperature. Long-sleeved onesies and long-sleeve sleepwear are both good ideas. You can also match onesies with shirts. On average, it's best to have at least 14 newborn clothing options (two for each day of the week).

Aim for one outfit in newborn size and one 0-3 months. Don't forget hats and/or socks, if weather-appropriate, to keep baby warm.

What your new baby needs: 6-8 bodysuits or vests – for babies born in spring, autumn and winter these are usually worn under a sleepsuit (or a little outfit). They are like little T-shirts that fasten with poppers between the legs. In summer these can be worn on their own.

Babies grow very quickly. All you need for the first few weeks are enough clothes to make sure your baby will be warm and clean. You'll probably need: 6 stretch suits (all-in-ones) for both day and night, or 4 stretch suits and 2 nightdresses (nighties) for the night – use socks or bootees with the nightie if it's cold.

In this case, “outfit” means shirt/onesie, pants, and a pair of socks. 0 – 3 month – Plan on two outfits and a sleeper each day, but don't overbuy in this range as your child will grow quickly. 3 – 6 month – Plan on one to two outfits a day plus a sleeper. You may also need bibs for drooling.

The general rule of thumb is to make sure baby wears one additional layer than what you're comfortable wearing—if you're feeling chilly, your baby probably is too.

Too many clothes.

You'll likely be in your nightgown for most of your stay, so you won't need a lot of clothes. Pack a going-home outfit that is comfortable and easy to put on, like leggings and a loose shirt.

Newborn Swaddles or Gowns

This is preferred because nurses, pediatricians, pediatric specialists and other care providers will be by your room frequently to perform vital sign checks and other newborn procedures. Non complicated outfits are key, and frankly, more comfortable for your baby (who has never worn clothes!).

If they are starting to feel warm, taking off a layer or two until they return to a safe temperature is recommended. Use common sense (and a weather report) when determining how many layers they need. The general rule of thumb is babies typically should wear one more layer than we would.

Babies are notoriously messy, and you might need to change their outfits 2-4 times a day just because they spat and got their onesie dirty again. Factor in the outfit needed for their 'outside' time, and you'll quickly come to learn you might need a few outfit changes throughout the day.

Will 0-3 months fit a newborn? ›

Whereas size 0-3 months should fit your baby up to 12 pounds, and you can always roll up sleeves and pant legs for a few weeks while baby grows into the larger size. If your baby is predicted to be petite, or you have a preemie, Newborn or Preemie sizes make a little more sense.

Onesies are a fundamental part of a baby's wardrobe, offering comfort and ease for both the baby and the parents. They are designed to be worn alone in hot weather or layered under other baby outfits, or paired up with baby pants in cold weather. Onesies are great for nap time, play, or going out.

Sleepers (4-6 pieces): Comfortable sleepwear is crucial for both you and your baby. Sleepers with easy-access snaps make nighttime diaper changes a breeze. Tops and Bottoms (6-8 sets): Invest in a few sets of mix-and-match tops and bottoms for daytime outfits. Look for elastic waistbands and comfortable fits.

While this really comes down to personal preference, on most baby registries you'll find that your newborn should have three to six swaddle blankets in their wardrobe.

Your growing baby is fitting into new clothes on a regular basis now. Baby clothes are the most common gift that new parents receive, but the average cost of clothes is around $50 a month for the first year. Using hand-me-downs or shopping at second-hand clothing stores can help you save in this area.

Put simply, there is no straightforward answer to the question, “How long do babies wear newborn clothes?” But, here is a general rule of thumb: If your baby weighs eight pounds or less at birth, you can probably expect them to be in newborn sizes for about three to five weeks.

A good rule of thumb is to give your baby 1 extra layer of clothing than what you're wearing. For example, if you're in a t-shirt and jumper, dress them in a vest, sleepsuit and cardigan or jumper. If you feel chilly, your baby probably does too.

To sum it all up…on an average day, expect to change your baby's clothes anywhere from 2 to 4 times.

How Many Sleepsuits Do I need? The general rule when shopping for your newborn sleepsuits is to buy 3-5 to begin with as your little one is still growing and tends to outgrow their sleepsuits within two to three weeks!