Preparing for the arrival of your baby is an exciting time! One of the most important (and fun!) tasks is getting your little one’s wardrobe ready. With so many tiny clothes to choose from, it can feel overwhelming at first. But don’t worry — we’ve got you covered! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prep your baby’s wardrobe, ensuring that you’re fully ready for those adorable first few weeks.
Start with the Essentials
Before you dive into the world of baby fashion, it’s important to focus on the basics. Newborns don’t need a ton of clothing in the beginning. Start by gathering a small collection of essential items that will keep your baby cozy, comfortable, and cute.
What You’ll Need:
● Onesies: Soft, cotton onesies are a must. Get a few short-sleeve and long-sleeve options for versatility.
● Sleepers: Zip-up sleepers are the easiest for nighttime changes, and they’ll keep your baby snug.
● Socks and Mittens: Babies can get cold easily, so stock up on socks and mittens to keep their little hands and feet warm.
● Hats: A soft hat is perfect for keeping your newborn’s head cozy, especially in the first few weeks.
Tip: Stick with neutral colors like white, grey, and beige for the first batch of clothes. These shades are timeless and can be mixed and matched effortlessly.
Pick Your Fabrics Wisely
Your baby’s skin is delicate, so when preparing their wardrobe, choose fabrics that are gentle and breathable. Soft cotton is ideal for babies because it allows their skin to breathe, prevents irritation, and is easy to wash. Organic cotton and bamboo fabrics are also excellent choices for sensitive skin.
What to Look For:
● Cotton: Lightweight, breathable, and soft.
● Organic Cotton: Great for babies with sensitive skin.
● Bamboo: Naturally hypoallergenic and super soft.
Tip: Avoid fabrics with harsh chemicals or dyes, and opt for organic or natural fibers whenever possible to ensure your baby’s comfort.
Plan for the Weather
Depending on the time of year your baby is born, you’ll need to plan for the season. Whether it’s summer or winter, your baby will need different types of clothing to stay comfortable.
For Summer Babies:
● Lightweight bodysuits and rompers to keep your baby cool.
● Light blankets for swaddling.
● Sun hats to protect from the sun.
For Winter Babies:
● Cozy sleepers and onesies with long sleeves.
● Warm hats, mittens, and socks to keep your baby warm.
● Blankets and swaddle wraps for extra warmth.
Tip: Remember that babies often need an extra layer than adults, so make sure to always have one more layer than you think you'll need for colder months.
Choose Easy-to-Use Fastenings
In the first few weeks, you’ll be changing your baby frequently. Make this process as simple as possible by choosing clothing with easy-to-use fastenings. Look for items with zippers or snaps instead of buttons, as they’re quicker and easier to manage—especially in the middle of the night!
What to Look For:
● Zippers for quick changes.
● Snaps at the front and between the legs for easy diaper changes.
● Stretchy necklines for easy on-and-off.
Tip: Clothes with an envelope neck (a neckline that stretches over the baby’s head) can be a lifesaver when you're in a hurry.
Stock Up on Newborn and 0-3 Month Sizes
It’s easy to get carried away with cute baby clothes, but remember, newborns grow quickly! Stock up on clothes in the newborn and 0-3 month sizes, but don’t go overboard. Babies grow fast, and some newborn sizes might only fit for a few weeks.
What to Do:
● Newborn Clothes: Get around 6-8 onesies, sleepers, and outfits in newborn sizes.
● 0-3 Month Clothes: Once your baby starts growing, you’ll want a few extra outfits for the 0-3 month range. This gives you some options when they start outgrowing newborn sizes.
Tip: Babies often wear one size for only a few weeks, so don’t go crazy buying too many clothes in each size. You can always buy more when your baby grows into the next size.
Wash Everything Before Baby Arrives
Once you’ve gathered all the clothes, it’s time to get them ready for your little one. Wash everything before your baby arrives to ensure it’s clean, soft, and free of any harsh chemicals. Baby skin is sensitive, so it’s important to use a gentle, baby-safe detergent.
What to Do:
● Wash all new clothes in a hypoallergenic, baby-safe detergent before using them.
● Avoid fabric softeners that might irritate your baby’s skin.
● Dry everything thoroughly to avoid any potential allergens or dust.
Tip: Take a few minutes to sort the clothes into size categories before washing them. This way, it’ll be easy to organize later!
Create a Storage System for Baby’s Clothes
Before the baby arrives, make sure you have a functional system in place for organizing your little one’s wardrobe. Having an easy-to-access system will save you time and frustration, especially when you’re sleep-deprived!
What to Do:
● Drawer Organizers: Use dividers to keep onesies, socks, and hats in their own compartments.
● Closet Space: Hang up any special outfits or dresses. Use closet dividers to separate clothes by size.
● Storage Bins: Keep outgrown clothes in labeled storage bins for easy access in the future.
Tip: Keep a small basket of clothes near the changing table so that you can grab outfits quickly during those middle-of-the-night changes.
Be Prepared for Last-minute Needs
Even with all the prepping, babies have a way of surprising us! Make sure you’re ready for any last-minute clothing needs that might arise after your baby arrives.
What to Do:
● Stock up on extra diapers, wipes, and burp cloths to keep things handy.
● Have a few "emergency" outfits for when things get messy!
● Keep a small bag packed for hospital visits or trips to the doctor.
Tip: Keep a few extra outfits in your diaper bag so you’re never caught without a clean change of clothes.
Conclusion
Preparing your baby’s wardrobe before birth doesn’t have to be stressful. By focusing on the basics, choosing the right fabrics, and organizing your baby’s clothes for easy access, you’ll be fully ready for those precious first weeks. Plus, with these tips in mind, you’ll make sure your little one is dressed for comfort, warmth, and style—no matter the occasion!
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the final days of waiting for your sweet bundle of joy. You’ve got this!
