Choosing Clothes for Babies

When you purchase baby clothes, it's a good idea to stick to one color scheme. Bright colors are unisex, more easily seen, and less easily soiled than pastels. They're a really good idea for outerwear, as a bright red jacket worn by a child can be easier to see in a busy shopping mall than a baby wearing light blue.

Be practical. Babies aren't neat, so you'll want everything to be machine washable. Avoid buying those fancy outfits. First of all, they're not very comfortable at all, and second, they can interfere with your baby's movements. The more comfortable clothes are those made of cotton and other natural fabrics, especially in hot weather.

Speaking of the weather, the climate where you live and the season in which your child is born determine your initial layette needs. If you're not sure what you need, you can talk to other parents and get some helpful ideas, or you can start observing how other babies are dressed. Keep in mind that most babies wear newborn sizes for only a couple of weeks. It is important not to overdress your baby, particularly when the temperature is hot. If you want a guide, just put as many layers of clothing on your baby as you are wearing. Also remember that if you're warm, your baby probably is, too.

If you need more ideas about putting together your initial layette, here are some suggestions:

Underwear - Get at least 4 to 6 undershirts for 3 to 6-month old sizes. These are usually made of cotton and can shrink to some degree. Some parents find the undershirts with side snaps easier to put on a new baby. All styles of undershirts are usually available in white, solid colors, and prints.

Socks and Booties - You'll probably want four to six pairs of socks. Make sure that they fit your baby's feet snugly, but not too tight. Get cuffed socks and booties made out of stretchy material, since babies often kick off other styles.

Sleeping Wear - You will need around 6 to 10 sleeping outfits initially. Stretchy, footed, or gowns all work great. Blanket sleepers, which are heavier than stretch garments, are good for colder climates. Parents like sleeping gowns because it makes diaper changing easier, and they also allow an older infant more freedom of movement. If you select sleepwear with feet, do not also put socks on your baby. Doing so will make the baby's feet become too warm, and this may cause a condition known as sweaty sock dermatitis.

Hats and Caps - Buying 2 hats or caps should be enough. Baby hats and caps come in all sorts of styles and made out of a variety of fabrics, from stretchable cotton to acrylic. The type you choose depends upon the climate. When buying caps or hats, check to see that they are small enough so they stay on and so you can place them well away from the baby's face, so he can't turn his head and suffocate in them.

Julie Vega is a researcher and writer working for http://www.gobohemian.com, where you can get all your infant and children's clothing at the best prices. Visit us for all your designer baby.

- Julie Vega