HOW MANY BABY CLOTHES DO I NEED IN EACH SIZE?
Getting ready for a baby is super exciting, and it’s important to figure out “hmm.. how many baby clothes do I need in each size?” because it can be a bit overwhelming. When I was pregnant, I made the mistake of thinking I needed a closet full of clothes for every stage, only to realize that less really is more. Today, I’m here to share some practical advice on how to build a baby wardrobe that’s just right—no more, no less.
Walking down the baby isles and seeing all those irresistible tiny baby outfits is tough for any parent. You want to buy everything for your little one but remember, you’re not hosting a mini baby fashion show. Especially if you’re on a budget, you’ll want to focus on the essentials.
I wish I knew about these tips when I was pregnant with my little one. I definatly wasn’t focused on the essentials, I would just buy anything that was cute. And, reality hit me in the shoulders, babies grow so fast! Some of those cute newborn clothes were worn just once before my little one outgrew them and others weren’t worn at all.
It was a lesson in keeping things simple and practical—babies need comfy clothes more than a closet bursting with adorable outfits. So here I am, sharing what I wish I knew back then—how to build a baby wardrobe that’s cute and practical without going overboard.
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How Many Baby Clothes Do I Need To Buy Before Baby Is Born?
It’s hard to say exactly how many clothes you need to buy before your baby is born. But, I’ll share with you some rough estimates. You have to consider your baby shower, gifts from loved loves and how often you do laundry. I honestly wouldn’t recommend you go and buy clothes for every stage before your baby is born.
Before welcoming your little one you’ll want to be prepared with newborn clothes only. I’m not saying you can’t buy anything at all for your baby before it’s born, if you catch a sale get it! I’m just saying don’t lost in the sea of cuteness overload.
Don’t get outfits that are probably only going to be worn once, unless, you’re having a photoshoot. Memories last a life time so it’s worth it. But, if you’re not having a shoot focus on the essentials.
How Many Newborn Clothes Does A Baby Need?
I know babies are the cutest in their newborn stage, you’ll want to buy them everything and anything you see at the Target baby isles. But, you have to resist! You might not care much about spending all your money on newborn clothes now because all you can think of is how freaking cute they’re going to look. But, you’ll care when it’s time to get rid of the clothes because they didn’t even get to wear them.
My little one was wearing newborn clothes for only a few weeks before we moved on to 0-3 months. Yes, you read that right a few weeks! I wish they stayed that little a bit longer but truth is, they don’t. Before you know it, you’ll be bagging all their clothes making room for the next size.
Anyways, when shopping for newborn clothes, ask yourself this question: How much laundry do you want to do? Although it’s true that newborns grow fast, they also make a lot of messes. On average here is the amount of baby clothes you’ll need before your baby is born and only the essentials.
Onesies/Bodysuits: 7-10
Onesies or bodysuits are essential for newborns, they provide a comfortable base layer that’s easy to put on and take off. They are perfect for daily wear and allow for quick diaper changes without fully undressing the baby. With 7-10 onesies, you can ensure your baby is always dressed comfortably and ready for any unexpected messes. Here are some gender neutral really affordable ones you can get on Amazon…
Sleepers/Rompers: 7-10
Sleepers or rompers are ideal for nighttime and lounging during the day. Sleepers keep baby warm, especially in cooler environments. And, rompers and perfect for warmer days. Having 7-10 sleepers and rompers will help make sure baby has comfortable sleepwear for night-time changes and relaxed playtime during the day.
Pants/Leggings: 5-7
Pants or leggings are essential for layering and keeping the baby’s legs warm. With 5-7 pairs, you have enough for different outfits and weather conditions, ensuring your baby stays comfortable and stylish.
Socks: 5-10 pairs
Socks keep your baby’s feet warm and protected. They are crucial, especially in cooler climates or air-conditioned environments. Having 5-10 pairs should be enough for the newborn stage. Socks usually fit for a few months, babies don’t grow out of them as fast as onesies so, it won’t to buy a few extra pairs.
Beanies: 2-4
Beanies are a must for newborns to regulate body temperature and protect their heads. They are crucial for outings and keeping the baby comfortable outdoors. These beanies from Amazon are so adorable, they’re stretchy and warm. I love the colors, they’ll match different outfits and they’ll make your little one look so cute with the little bear ears.
Shoes: 0
Newborns do not need shoes right away for several reasons. First, newborns typically spend most of their time lying down or being held, so shoes are unnecessary and can even hinder foot development. Second, newborn feet are still soft and flexible, and they need to grow and develop naturally without restriction from shoes. It’s recommended to wait until your baby starts walking or standing more independently before introducing shoes to support their growing feet.
Should I Buy Clothes For After The Newborn Stage Ahead Of Time Or As My Baby Grows?
Babies grow so fast—seriously, one day they’re in one size and the next, they’re onto the next one. I prefer to buy clothes as baby grows. Trust me, I learned the hard way with my little one. Buying clothes ahead can mean you end up with a bunch that they never even wear ’cause they’ve outgrown them! So, it’s smarter to get what they need as you go along. Plus, it’s more fun to shop when you know exactly what size they’re in and what they actually need, right? Keep it chill and save those dollars for the essentials.
Baby Clothes Checklist By Size
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(0-3 MONTHS)
When it comes to newborns, having the right clothing essentials can make those early days much smoother. In this size range, you’ll want to focus on practical items like onesies and sleepers that keep your little one comfortable and snug.
I recommend you don’t buy many of the super cute outfits like the teddy bear fluffy rompers because they will probably wear it only once. You can one or 2, especially if you want to take some pictures of them looking extra adorable. Here is the newborn baby bear onesie I got for my son, I loved it.
Anyways, you’ll want to focus on clothes your little one will need on a daily basis.
Let’s break down what you’ll need to prepare for those precious first few months.
- Onesies/Bodysuits
- Sleepers/Rompers
- Pants/Leggings
- Socks/Booties
- Beanies
3-6 MONTHS
As your baby grows out of the newborn stage and starts to become more active, their clothing needs evolve too. In the 3-6 month range, you’ll find yourself reaching for a mix of onesies, pants, and sleepers that are both practical and easy to manage during diaper changes and playtime. Here’s a look at the essentials for this stage.
- Onesies/Bodysuits
- Sleepers/Rompers
- Pants/Leggings
- Jackets/Sweaters
- Pajamas
- Socks
6-9 Months
By the time your baby reaches 6-9 months, they’re likely becoming more mobile and curious about their surroundings. This stage calls for a wardrobe that includes versatile pieces like rompers, dresses, and comfortable tops that accommodate their growing movements and changing weather conditions. Let’s explore what’s essential during this developmental phase.
- Onesies/Bodysuits
- Pants/Leggings
- Dresses/Shorts
- Rompers
- T-shirts/Tops
- Sweaters
- Socks
9-12 Months
As your baby approaches their first birthday, their clothing needs start to reflect their growing personality and independence. In the 9-12 month range, you’ll want to focus on items that offer comfort and style, such as shorts, long-sleeve shirts, and shoes that support their early steps. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll want to have on hand during this exciting stage of their development.
- Onesies/Bodysuits
- Pants/Leggings
- Shorts/Dresses
- Short Sleeve/Long-Sleeve Shirts
- Jackets
- Shoes
Special Occasion Outfits
For special occasions like weddings or family gatherings, have 1-2 dressy outfits ready in each size range. Dresses, dress shirts, or rompers with special details are perfect for these events. Choose comfortable fabrics and easy closures for quick changes.
Winter Clothing
If you live in a colder climate, consider adding winter essentials to your baby’s wardrobe. Include 1-2 heavier jackets or snowsuits, hats, mittens, and warm socks. Layering is key to keeping your baby warm and comfortable during outdoor activities or chilly days.
Sweaters & Layers
Throughout all sizes, having a few sweaters, cardigans, or hoodies is essential for layering over outfits. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics that are gentle on your baby’s skin. These layers can be easily added or removed to keep your baby comfortable as temperatures change.
Tips For Buying Baby Clothes On A Budget
When you’re shopping for baby clothes on a budget, there are some awesome hacks to save those bucks! First off, check out second-hand stores or online swap groups—they’ve got gems in practically new condition for way less.
Another pro tip: focus on the essentials, like onesies and sleepers, and skip the fancy stuff that they’ll grow out of super fast. Also, focus on buying neutral colors that match almost anything so you can make as many outfits as possible.
Oh, and keep an eye out for sales or clearance racks at stores—sometimes you can score big time on cute outfits.
Lastly, if you’ve got friends or family with older kids, ask if they’ve got any hand-me-downs. Don’t be shy, shopping smart means you’ve got more cash for other baby must-haves, so why not?!
Other Tips for Buying Baby Clothes
When preparing for your baby’s arrival, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of shopping for adorable tiny outfits. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Baby Shower Gifts: Many of your friends and family will likely gift you with baby clothes at your baby shower. Consider holding off on buying too many clothes yourself until after the shower, so you can see what you receive first.
- Seasonal Considerations: If your baby is due in a certain season, plan accordingly. For colder months, invest in cozy layers like sweaters and jackets. For warmer weather, focus on lighter fabrics and sun protection.
- Practicality Over Fashion: While it’s tempting to dress your baby in the latest trends, prioritize comfort and practicality. Choose clothes that are easy to put on and take off, especially during diaper changes.
- Consider Growth Spurts: Babies grow quickly, often outgrowing clothes within weeks. Instead of buying a large quantity of newborn sizes, opt for a few essentials and then plan to purchase more as your baby grows.
- Quality Over Quantity: Invest in well-made clothes that can withstand multiple washes. Look for durable fabrics and strong seams to ensure longevity.
- Multipurpose Outfits: Choose outfits that can serve multiple purposes. For example, sleepers that double as playwear can save you money and closet space.
By focusing on essentials, being mindful of gifts received, and considering practicality and quality, you’ll build a baby wardrobe that’s both functional and adorable without overwhelming your space or budget.
Now you know how many baby clothes you really need in each size, including special occasion outfits, winter essentials, and cozy layers. Keeping your baby’s wardrobe simple yet versatile saves space and ensures you have everything your little one needs without excess. Trust me, I learned from experience that having a well-curated wardrobe makes dressing your baby easier and more enjoyable. Stick to the basics, mix in a few adorable outfits, and you’ll be ready to welcome your little one in style.
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