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Ages & Stages

Registering for Baby Clothes

Registering for Baby Clothes Registering for Baby Clothes

​As your due date nears, you'll need a basic collection of baby clothes and accessories that will get your newborn through his first few weeks.

A suggested starting list to register for includes:

  • 3 or 4 sleepwear sets

  • 6 to 8 T- shirts

  • 3 newborn sleep sacks

  • 2 sweaters

  • 2 caps/hats

  • 4 pairs of socks or booties

  • 4 to 6 receiving/swaddle blankets

  • 1 set of baby washcloths and towels (look for towels with hoods)

  • 3 to 4 dozen newborn-size diapers

  • 3 to 4 onesies/T- shirts with snaps between legs

Guidelines on Making Baby Clothes Choices

Here are some suggestions to keep in mind when selecting clothing for your newborn:

  • Buy big. Unless your baby is born prematurely or is very small, they probably will outgrow "newborn" sizes in a matter of days—if theyever fits into them at all! Even three-month sizes may be outgrown within the first month. Your baby won't mind roomier clothes for a while.

  • To avoid injury from a garment that catches fire, all children should wear flame-retardant sleepwear and clothing. Make sure the label indicates this. These garments should be washed in laundry detergents, not soap, because soap washes out the flame retardant. Check garment labels and product information to determine which detergents to use.

  • Make sure the diaper area of clothing has snaps or access to be able to change diapers.

  • Avoid any clothing that pulls tightly around the neck, arms, or legs or has ties or cords. These clothes are not only safety hazards, but are also uncomfortable.

  • Check washing instructions. Clothing for all children of all ages should be washable and require little or no ironing.

  • Do not put shoes on a newborn's feet. Shoes are not necessary until after they start to walk. Take care that socks are not too tight around your baby's feet and ankles.

Last Updated
3/12/2021
Source
Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5 7th Edition (Copyright © 2019 American Academy of Pediatrics)
The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
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