1. Safety
• Avoid tight elastic bands that could reduce circulation.
• Ensure there are loose features because laces, for example, could pose a choking hazard.
• Ensure that the clothing is appropriately sized for your baby so that excess fabric does not hinder your newborn’s breathing if it becomes bunched up near your baby’s face.
2. Fabric
• The fabric should be breathable; allows baby skin to be aerated.
• Moisture-absorbing materials that are soft and comfortable e.g. cotton, flannel, etc.
• It is recommended that you wash the clothing before dressing your baby in it to reduce the number of chemicals from the fabric which can irritate a newborn’s delicate skin.
3. Functionality
• Easy outfits for newborns include growers, rompers, pyjamas and stretchy outfits.
• Clothing should be easy to put on and take off since newborns are fragile.
• The outfit can have stretchy necklines or have snaps instead of buttons for closures.
• Clothing should be appropriate for the climate or season since newborns can easily get hot or cold in the wrong type of clothing.
4. Style
• Remember there will be lots of photos taken at this time. Buy outfits that are cute and adorable.
• Choose what appeals to you.
5. Durability and Sizing
• Newborns need clothing that washes easily since they often spit up and have diaper leaks.
• The clothing should be easy to launder and can handle stain remover, or warmer water temperature.
• Try and buy very few ‘newborn’ sized clothes as they outgrow them very fast if at all. Instead buy a size or two bigger to accommodate your fast-growing baby.
