Jun 22, 20233 min read

Preparing For a Newborn — Must Have Baby Clothes

Preparing for a newborn is equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. Ensure you have all the clothes necessary with our expert guide. Read more here.

You’ve decorated the nursery, packed your hospital bag, and considered endless baby names. But have you stocked up on newborn clothes?

Preparing for a newborn can feel challenging, especially if it's your first time. New parents can be tempted to over-buy for their baby, but excess buying sometimes leads to more mess at home. Not ideal when you’re caring for a newborn with constant diaper leaks and spitting!

However, with some quick research, you’ll be ready to meet your babe in no time. In this article, we’re looking at essential baby garments all parents-to-be should own. Keep reading to get the lowdown on must-have newborn clothes.

Preparing for a Baby Arrival: Complete Clothing Checklist

We’re splitting the crucial clothes into key categories. Use these to guide your own shopping list!

Onesies/Baby Grows

Onesies (also known as baby grows) are all-in-one sleep suits that keep babies warm and comfortable while sleeping. If you live in a warm climate, you might want to avoid fleece options, as these can be too warm for babies. You can also layer baby vests under onesies for extra warmth in cold months.

We love the Duckling Baby Sleep Suit made from 100% organic cotton. This neutral design is super soft and cozy, ensuring all babas sleep well while looking adorable! Sustainable baby clothes don’t get more charming than this.

Alternatively, the Estella Short Sleeve Organic Baby Romper provides knitted comfort for colder environments.

Vests/Bodysuits

Baby vests and bodysuits are lighter layers that keep babies at a safe temperature. Cotton is the best fabric for this garment, as it’s breathable and comfortable. In the summer, opt for baby vests without sleeves to keep your baby extra cool.

The River Bodysuit is a great example of a long-sleeved option. Made from 100% organic cotton, this pick is breathable, versatile, and extra soft for newborn babies.

Need a short-sleeved bodysuit? Estella’s Guacamole Baby Bodysuit is on-hand to help.

Mittens and Hats

Accessories are essential for babies, so don’t scrimp on the mittens or hats.

For hats, opt for light-cotton beanies with adjustable knots. This way, you can tailor the cozy accessory to your babe’s needs. Check out our Knotted Hat for a sustainable organic cotton option.

Mittens (or scratch mitts) are also a must. These ensure babies don’t hurt themselves with their little nails. Sometimes, mittens are built into onesies.

Special Occasion Clothes

Some baby clothes are too cute to ignore.

Allow yourself to buy one or two special occasion or novelty outfits. These make for super sweet photos, creating memories for years to come.

Pro Tip: Special occasion outfits make excellent baby shower gifts.

Consider a beautiful baby vest, such as the delicate floral Viperine piece. This outfit features a piped white bib collar and exquisite finishings.

Our Kokori Floral Set is another perfect pick for any big event. This blush pink ensemble includes a cardigan, pants, and a matching hat. Each is adorned with hand-crafted flowers for a super sweet finish.

We have so many beautiful options. Go check them out on our website.

Getting Ready For a Baby — Final Tips

As the due date gets closer, it’s time to start putting your baby’s wardrobe together. Here are some final tips for any soon-to-be moms!

For newborn-sized clothes, consider buying 5 vests, 5 onesies, 2 hats, and 3 scratch mitts. This might seem more than necessary, but babies get messy quickly! And they grow out of their newly born clothes fast!
Stock up on some 0-3 month clothes, too. Experts recommend 7 vests, 7 onesies, 3 jumpers, 2 hats, and 3 scratch mitts.
Focus on keeping your baby warm and clean in the first few weeks.
Add socks and booties only when it’s cold. You don’t want your baby to overheat! We have the most adorable baby slippers that you don't want to miss!