There is nothing like finding out about a new pregnancy to cause soon-to-be parents, family and friends to get all mushy and gushy in the baby clothing section of any given store. Adults tend to be drawn toward the "cute factor" and "trendiness" that can be found in today's baby wear. And the idea that it is more important to have a baby well-dressed in style and cuteness is exactly what the manufacturers are hoping for.
A baby could care less about the trendy labels and the miniature-sized adult wear that has found its way to the baby clothing section of most any given store. No, a baby is more content with comfort, which should be the main priority when it comes to baby clothes. Baby clothing, just like adult clothing, is for the main purpose of protecting the skin from the elements.
What to Look for
The comfort, roominess, durability, sizing and feel of the fabric are important to keep in mind when shopping for baby clothes. Restrictive and constricting clothing can cause a baby to be fussy and diminish the full range of motion. Baby clothing that is not made with soft cotton, cotton/polyester blend or organic cotton can be coarse and irritating to the baby's sensitive skin. Keep in mind that babies grow quickly in the early months and year after birth. So, choose a variety of sizes starting with 6 months and up, which will help keep baby clothing well stocked.
A new baby's clothing wardrobe should include a selection of one-piece outfits and sleepers that incorporate snaps that help make changing baby easy. Again, when it comes to baby clothes, you do not want clothing that will frustrate you and baby as you try to dress or undress her. Snaps and zippers in convenient locations, or easy-to-slip-on designs are essential clothing items to add to the wardrobe. But make sure all articles of clothing do not have faulty zippers, reachable buttons that can be pulled off and ingested or snaps that are damaged.
Do not be afraid to go with second-hand clothing from resale type stores or yard sales, even, because babies grow out of and go through outfits like no tomorrow in the early stages after birth. Remember, the baby is not interested in what it looks like, only that it keeps them protected, warm and comfortable. In many cases, baby clothing found in second-hand shops have barely been worn because they were outgrown before it was ever worn. Look for store sales, and use auction websites in your quest to stock up on baby clothes. There is nothing wrong with saving whenever possible, and baby clothing is one area where savings can be found.
Common Pitfalls
Just because the baby clothing is part of a name brand and well-known company does not mean the quality is any better than an outfit with no name brand attached. However, you can count on paying more for top-name baby clothing as opposed to an equally comfortable and durable outfit manufactured from an unknown company. It is also common to receive baby clothing gifts that are specific to newborn sizes, and parents may find themselves overly stocked with newborn clothing that tends to be outgrown quickly. So, encourage family and friends to shop for bigger sizes, as well.
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