You buy the first baby clothes during pregnancy. The baby wears these clothes immediately after delivery. Therefore, they must be comfortable. Natural materials are preferred. Cotton, wool and terry cloth absorb moisture, synthetics do not. Soft, stretchy fabrics ensure that you can easily put on and take off the clothes. Also pay attention to the closure! Clothes with a Velcro or press stud closure do not always have to be worn over the head. Always wash new clothes before use.
The first baby clothes
The first clothes can already be purchased during pregnancy. These clothes are used immediately after birth and must therefore be easy to use and comfortable to wear. These clothes are often neutral so that they can be worn by boys and girls. Preferably choose soft, stretchy materials so that the clothes are easy to put on. The clothes often have a Velcro or press stud closure and therefore do not always have to be pulled over the baby’s head.A standard baby wardrobe can consist of:
- 6 rompers
- 4 sets of clothes
- at least 1 hat
- at least 3 or 4 pairs of socks
- jacket or vest
- slippers (indispensable in the winter months to prevent cold feet)
Tip – Wash small socks in a laundry bag to prevent them from getting lost.
Baby sizes
After the birth, the wardrobe is soon filled with clothes that have been given as gifts by the maternity visit. If the visit inquires about any wishes, (regarding the gift) ask for clothing in consecutive sizes. This way you can prevent people from all taking the same size. Standard baby clothing starts at size 50. For premature babies there is also clothing in sizes 44 and 48. For baby sizes, the length of the baby, in centimeters, is equal to the size. Size 50 therefore fits a baby of approximately 50 cm.
The following clothing sizes fit a baby with the average age of
- 0 – 2 months – size 50/56
- 3 – 6 months – size 62/68
- 9 months – 1 year – size 74/80
- 18 months – 2 years – size 86/92
Sometimes clothes run smaller, so don’t just go by size.
Summer or winter clothing
When buying clothes, take into account the season in which the baby is born. In summer, rompers without sleeves are sufficient. Long sleeves are nice and warm in the winter months. When buying clothes in larger sizes, consider what time of year the baby can wear them.
The use of materials
Baby clothes should be comfortable and preferably made of soft, natural fabrics. Natural fabrics such as wool, cotton and terry cloth absorb moisture (sweat), synthetic fabrics do not. Stretchy clothing is convenient because it takes less effort to put on. Stiff fabrics such as denim are also not very comfortable and are therefore less suitable in the first months. Because a baby lies down a lot, clothes with a hood are not suitable. The baby then lies on a lump all the time.
Washable clothes
Baby clothes must be washable (60 degrees). Washing at higher temperatures is necessary to remove stains. In addition, soap residue and pathogens are rinsed better from the clothing. Babies and people with lower resistance are more sensitive to this. Baby clothes should always be washed before first use. Preferably use a neutral detergent to prevent skin irritation.
Safe clothing
Baby clothes must also be safe. Buttons, bows and the like can come loose and pose a choking hazard to the baby.