Buzz
New parents often find themselves inundated with clothing gifts. However, many of these items may not be practical or suitable for infants. If you end up with unnecessary items, consider exchanging them for essentials that better meet your needs.
Deciding on the right clothing for your little one can be overwhelming, especially when factoring in the complexities of diapering. In this guide, we’ll address all your concerns about baby attire across the following sections:
- DiapersDiapers are a cornerstone of parenting during the early years. Many new parents are unfamiliar with diapers and may have numerous questions. This section will outline the different diaper options available, helping you choose the best fit for your family. We’ll start with disposable diapers, the most widely used option, then move on to reusable cloth diapers. Lastly, we’ll highlight common diapering pitfalls to avoid.
- Infant ClothingInvesting in baby clothes can feel futile since infants outgrow them so quickly. Here, we’ll guide you in selecting comfortable, safe garments while keeping in mind their short lifespan. We’ll cover essentials like socks, onesies, sleepwear, hats, sweaters, winter gear, and blankets.
- Toddler ClothingAs your child starts crawling or walking, their wardrobe needs will evolve. This stage often coincides with potty training, adding another layer of consideration. In this section, we’ll help you navigate clothing choices for ages one to three, including daywear, sleepwear, and footwear. We’ll also discuss how to select outfits that suit your child’s needs.
This content is intended for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and the publisher are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, dietary changes, actions, or medication applications based on this information. This publication does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
Diapers
In the initial two years, your baby will use nearly 6,000 diapers.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.Considering that your baby will require around 6,000 diapers in their first 30 months, it’s wise to carefully consider your options: disposable diapers or reusable cloth diapers that you wash at home.
Disposable Diapers
Environmental concerns have been raised about disposable diapers, as they are not biodegradable and cannot be recycled. They also pose public health risks, as viruses in waste can spread to sanitation workers. Additionally, when disposed of in landfills, these diapers can contaminate water sources with harmful pathogens.
On the brighter side, disposable diapers offer significant convenience and reduce effort. They remove the necessity for plastic covers and are ideal for travel. Their pin-free design makes them user-friendly, encouraging even inexperienced family members to assist with diaper changes.
If you opt for disposable diapers, consider these tips:
- Experiment with various brands. Begin with a selection of newborn sizes to identify one that fits comfortably and meets your standards for softness and quality. Name brands often deliver more consistent quality.
- Avoid brands that clump, tear, or bunch when wet, as loose paper fragments could pose a choking hazard for your baby.
- Choose brands designed to prevent plastic from touching your baby’s skin, as this helps reduce the risk of rashes.
- Once you find a preferred brand, look for discounts and purchase in bulk to save money.
- Check each diaper for any impurities, discoloration, or foreign objects in the padding.
- Refer to the weight and size charts on the packaging to ensure a proper fit. Diapers with elastic leg openings are better at preventing leaks. When securing the diaper, ensure the leg holes aren’t too tight.
- Some disposable diapers claim to have flushable components, but these often don’t work well. Still, try to flush away as much waste as possible before tightly rolling the diaper to seal the soiled area and using the diaper tape to secure it before disposal.
- Line trash bins with plastic bags, and ensure they are tightly sealed before disposal. Lidded garbage cans are recommended to keep curious toddlers out.
- Most disposable diapers feature refastenable tape or Velcro closures for convenience. However, it’s a good idea to keep a small roll of strapping or masking tape and safety scissors on hand for emergencies or defective diapers.
Home-Laundered Cloth Diapers
Opting for cloth diapers and washing them at home is the most economical solution to the diaper dilemma. (However, remember to account for the time, effort, and costs associated with washing, including soap, water, electricity, or laundromat fees.)
Modern cloth diapers come in various fabrics, styles, and colors, offering more options than the traditional flat diapers made from a single piece of fabric. Today, you can select from pre-fold, fitted, all-in-one (with a built-in waterproof layer), and pocket diapers (where absorbent material is inserted into a pocket between a soft inner layer and a waterproof outer cover).
If your chosen cloth diapers lack snap or Velcro closures, you’ll need diaper pins. Additionally, diaper liners for nighttime absorbency and waterproof covers are essential. Be cautious when washing cloth diapers, as fabric softeners, bleach, and certain detergents can irritate a baby’s delicate skin.
For those who prefer not to wash diapers at home, diaper services offer a convenient alternative. These services collect soiled diapers and deliver fresh, clean ones.Diapering Hazards
No matter the type of diaper you use, diaper rash is a common issue. It results from prolonged exposure to moisture, warmth, and irritants in urine and stool. Plastic or rubber materials can worsen the condition, while cool, dry air helps alleviate it. Always change wet or soiled diapers promptly and allow your baby’s skin to air dry whenever possible.
Another risk during diapering is the potential for your baby to ingest or inhale harmful substances. This often occurs when the caregiver gives the baby an object to hold, or the baby grabs something nearby. Items like baby powder, ointments, creams, or wipes can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, choking, breathing difficulties, or vomiting. Always keep these products out of your baby’s reach during diaper changes.
Diaper pins pose a risk of accidental puncture injuries to your baby. To prevent this, always place your finger between the pin and your baby’s skin during diaper changes. Most injuries happen when pins become dull, requiring extra force to penetrate the fabric. Occasionally dipping pins in soap or petroleum jelly can help, but it’s best to replace dull or rusted pins immediately.
The safest diaper pins feature safety locks that securely cover the metal latch. It’s wise to purchase multiple pairs. Avoid decorative pins with plastic tops, as the plastic can become brittle over time, chip off, and expose sharp edges.
No matter which diaper type you choose, the question of clothing remains. In the next section, we’ll explore the essentials of baby clothing.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and the publisher are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, dietary changes, actions, or medication applications based on this information. This publication does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
Infant Clothing
Frequent diaper changes are a reality, so prioritize practicality when selecting your baby’s wardrobe.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.Opt for a single color palette when buying baby clothes. Bright hues are gender-neutral, more visible, and less prone to showing stains compared to pastels. They’re particularly ideal for outerwear—spotting a child in a vibrant red coat in a crowded store is far easier than one in pale pink.
Prioritize functionality. Babies are messy, so ensure all clothing is machine washable, regardless of its cuteness. Fancy outfits often hinder movement and lack comfort. Cotton and other natural fabrics are preferable, especially in warm weather. Adjustable buckles are more practical than buttons, as they can accommodate your child’s growth.
Higher prices don’t always mean better quality. Inspect each item carefully, as baby sizes vary widely. Don’t hesitate to remove items from packaging to check for sturdy seams, strong stitching, and durable knit fabrics.
Thrift stores and hand-me-downs from other parents are excellent sources for baby clothes. Many items are nearly new. Wash used clothing thoroughly, possibly with a bit of bleach, and verify that sleepwear meets flame-retardant standards, as discussed in the next section.
Birth to Six Months
Your initial layette depends on your local climate and the season your baby is born. If you need to gather these essentials yourself (and don’t receive them as gifts), seek advice from other parents or observe how babies are typically dressed. Remember, most newborns outgrow their first sizes within weeks. Always wash new or used items before your baby wears them.
Avoid overdressing your baby, especially in hot weather. A good guideline is to dress your baby in as many layers as you’re wearing. If you feel warm, your baby likely does too. When transitioning from cold to warm environments, like stores or malls, adjust your baby’s clothing by loosening or removing layers. Many parents remove their coats indoors but forget to do the same for their bundled-up baby.
Here are some tips to help you assemble your initial layette:
Underwear: Purchase four to six undershirts in the three- to six-month size, as cotton fabrics tend to shrink slightly. Side-snap undershirts are easier for newborns, while one-piece styles that snap at the crotch prevent the shirt from rolling up. These are available in white, solid colors, and prints.
Socks or booties: Aim for four to six pairs of socks, ensuring they fit snugly on your baby’s feet. Stretchy, cuffed booties are ideal, as they stay on better than other styles that babies often kick off.
Sleepwear: Prepare six to ten sleep outfits, such as footed stretchy suits or gowns. Blanket sleepers, which are thicker, are suitable for colder weather. Gowns make diaper changes easier and allow more movement for older infants. However, older gowns with strings posed a risk of cutting off circulation to toes or ankles. Modern versions use enclosed plastic strips instead of strings to eliminate this hazard.
If you choose footed sleepwear, avoid adding socks, as this can overheat your baby’s feet and lead to sweaty sock dermatitis.
Sleepwear must comply with flame-retardant standards established by the Consumer Products Safety Commission in the 1970s. New sleepwear is labeled as such, while other garments may state, "Not intended as sleepwear." Polyester is commonly used because it’s naturally flame-resistant, whereas cotton requires chemical treatment to meet safety standards.
When using secondhand clothes, be aware that Tris, a flame retardant banned in 1977 due to its cancer-causing effects in animals, should be avoided. Do not use items labeled as treated with Tris or Fyrol.
Hats or caps: Two hats or caps should be sufficient. They are available in various styles and materials, ranging from lightweight cotton stretch caps to heavier cotton or acrylic options. Choose based on your climate. Ensure the hat fits snugly to stay in place and is positioned far enough from the baby’s face to prevent suffocation if they move their head.
Sweaters: One sweater is usually enough. Ensure the fabric is tightly woven to prevent tiny fingers from getting caught. Also, check that any decorations on the sweater—or any clothing—are securely attached to avoid choking hazards. Avoid items with glued-on embellishments.
Bunting or snowsuit: The need for a snowsuit or bunting depends on your local climate. A bunting is essentially a quilted or knitted zip-up bag with a hood, making it easy to place your baby inside. If you opt for a bunting, ensure it has slits at the bottom to accommodate car seat and stroller safety straps. Most modern designs include this feature, but older styles may not.
Newborns find comfort in being snugly wrapped, so keep several blankets available.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.Blankets:
You’ll need three to six baby blankets. Most newborns enjoy the secure feeling of being swaddled. Receiving blankets, which are smaller and lightweight, are perfect for this. They can also protect your clothes during burping. Cotton is a great material, but flannel, woven, and knit options are also available. Additionally, a crib blanket, typically heavier and sized for standard crib mattresses, is useful for covering a sleeping baby or as an extra layer in cold weather. Ensure all blankets are soft and machine washable.
Children grow rapidly in their first year, quickly outgrowing their baby clothes. In the next section, we’ll explore clothing options for toddlers.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and the publisher are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, dietary changes, actions, or medication applications based on this information. This publication does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
Toddler Clothing
Overalls with adjustable straps are perfect for toddlers, as they simplify diaper changes.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.As toddlers become more mobile, durable clothing becomes essential. Here, we’ll provide guidance on selecting clothes for children up to three years old.
Six to Twelve Months
At this stage, functional clothing is crucial to ensure your baby’s movements and explorations aren’t restricted. Your shopping list should include snap-crotch overalls, tops, undershirts (depending on the climate), a jacket, a sweater, and footed sleepwear or nightgowns.
Daywear:
For daytime, opt for bright T-shirts with shoulder snaps and straight-cut overalls featuring adjustable straps. Avoid pants with elasticized waists, as they can be too tight on a baby’s stomach. Ensure overalls are reinforced where the straps meet the bib and around the crotch snaps. Adding foam or cotton-stuffed knee pads can protect your baby during outdoor crawling. Dresses are suitable once your baby starts walking but can hinder movement for crawlers, as they tend to get pinned under the knees.
Sweaters and jackets:
Sweaters that slip over the head and zip at the back are the easiest to put on. Ensure any sweater you purchase is machine washable. Jackets with front zippers or snaps are ideal. If a snowsuit is necessary, opt for a two-piece set so the jacket can be used separately in milder weather.
Sleepwear:
At this stage, your baby may outgrow one-piece footed sleepwear, though blanket sleepers might still fit. Two-piece pajamas with adjustable waist snaps are a great option, offering flexibility for growth. Gowns are also suitable, as they accommodate growth. Sleepwear for this age must meet the same flame-retardant standards as infant sleepwear.
One to Three Years
Once your child starts walking, shoes, boots, and a raincoat become essential additions to their wardrobe. As they approach toilet-training age, you’ll also need to purchase underpants.
Daywear: Separate tops and bottoms are ideal for toddlers who are walking or learning to use the toilet. As your child grows taller, you may need to replace tops more often.
When transitioning from diapers to underwear, you might notice that pants previously too tight over diapers now fit comfortably. Dresses and pull-on pants simplify toilet training and promote independence. Avoid jumpsuits with back zippers during this phase, as they can be frustrating for both you and your toddler.
As your toddler learns to dress themselves, choose clothing that’s easy to put on and remove. Keep in mind that sizes vary by brand, and cotton fabrics tend to shrink, so factor this into your purchases.
In addition to clothing, hats for rain, snow, and sun are crucial components of your toddler’s wardrobe.
Coats and winter wear: A machine-washable coat featuring a drawstring hood is highly practical. Coats with large buttons, loops, or toggle closures are ideal, as your child will eventually learn to fasten them independently. Ensure the coat isn’t too bulky, restricting movement. Layering thinner garments can provide warmth without the bulk.
For younger toddlers, thumbless mittens are warmer than gloves. Older toddlers may prefer mittens with thumbs for better dexterity. Mittens connected by a string threaded through coat sleeves are a smart choice. Avoid suspender clips for attaching mittens, as they can pinch and often result in lost mittens. Always buy two pairs of the same style, as one mitten is likely to go missing.
Avoid letting preschoolers wear long scarves, as they pose a strangulation hazard if caught on objects while the child is moving.
Rainwear: Traditional yellow raincoats with hoods or ponchos are suitable for this age. Clasp latches are easier for toddlers to manage than zippers. Avoid vinyl coats, as they tear easily, especially under the arms or at the snaps. Choose a size large enough to wear over a winter coat if needed.
Galoshes are popular with young children, likely because they’re easy to put on independently. Opt for styles worn without shoes, preferably with an inner lining and a waterproof fabric neck secured by a drawstring. These are perfect for mud and puddle play, which toddlers naturally enjoy.
Avoid purchasing child-sized umbrellas, as their sharp points and opening mechanisms can pose safety risks, including pinching hazards for small children.
Underwear:
Training pants and pull-up diapers are optional. Transition your child to regular cotton underpants when they’re ready for toilet training. Cotton is preferable because it’s breathable, unlike synthetic materials. Undershirts are unnecessary unless you live in a cold climate or home.
Shoes become essential once your child starts walking.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.Socks and shoes:
Shoes aren’t necessary for babies before they start walking. In fact, going barefoot is beneficial for infants, as their feet provide sensory feedback and natural grip. If protection is needed, inexpensive sneakers or leather moccasins are sufficient.
For babies beginning to walk, lightweight leather shoes are preferable, as they reduce tripping risks. As your child grows, the choice between leather shoes and sneakers becomes less critical. However, leather is better for breathability if your child’s feet tend to sweat, unlike synthetic materials used in sneakers.
When fitting shoes, ensure a half-inch gap between the big toe and the shoe’s end while your child is standing. The shoe should fit snugly at the heel without gaps. Avoid high sides that rub against the ankle and shoes with artificial arches or raised heels. Opt for nonskid soles and closures like buckles or Velcro for ease of use.
Once your baby starts walking, expect to replace shoes every four to six months, which can be costly. While expensive shoes aren’t always better, specialty children’s shoe stores may be necessary for hard-to-find sizes. If your child is easy to fit, sturdy sneakers are a practical choice for climbing and running, unless advised otherwise by a doctor.
Oxford-style shoes offer more toe space compared to other designs. While Mary Janes and similar dress shoes are suitable for special occasions, they’re not ideal for everyday wear due to their stiffness and toe constriction.
Socks are equally important, as overly tight socks can be as harmful as ill-fitting shoes. Opt for cotton socks to absorb moisture effectively. Purchasing socks in the same color and style simplifies matching after washing. For girls, cotton tights are a warmer, more durable alternative to nylon, as they are less prone to runs.
The main challenge in selecting children’s clothing is finding items that are comfortable, easy to wear, and adaptable to their rapid growth. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your child has a versatile wardrobe suitable for every season.
Publications International, Ltd.
About the Consultant:
Alvin Eden, M.D.:
Alvin Eden, M.D. is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at Weil Medical College of Cornell University in New York, New York. He chairs the Department of Pediatrics at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn. Dr. Eden has authored several child care books, including *Positive Parenting* and *Growing Up Thin*.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and the publisher are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, dietary changes, actions, or medication applications based on this information. This publication does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
