What Clothes do You Need for a Newborn Baby Boy?

Photo: Newborn Sleeping by  Vera Kratochvil

What Clothes are Needed for Newborn Boys?

 

Baby Boy Layette Essentials

The answer to the question of what clothes do you need for baby boys depends a little on the time of year,  the weather, and where you live. T-shirts or onsies are good all year round. In warmer months, they can be worn as outer clothes, and in the cold months can be used as underclothes to help keep your baby warm.

Sleepers are what my baby wore most, especially in cooler seasons. The footed outfits kept his feet comfy, and the snaps and zippers made it easy to change diapers.

For extremely cold months, you might want to consider blanket sleepers. If your baby is anything like mine were, covers will be kicked off, exposing your little one to the cold.

While babies are really tiny, gowns with drawstring bottoms are nice, too. Baby's feet stay warm, and diapers are easy to get to when changing them.

Don't forget socks. Shoes are optional for babies, since they will not be walking, but baby socks are a must.

Babies usually need at least two changes a day. Depending on where you are, they may need more. Going on a trip to the store might only require one extra change, but if you are going to Gramma's house for the day, consider taking at least three changes.

Newborn Needs and Layette Essentials

 

Are Used Clothes a Good Idea for Babies

Buying used clothing for babies helps stretch your family finances. Babies often grow out of clothes before they can be worn out. That said, there are some important points to remember.

Always wash used clothing before your baby wears it. Instead of fabric softener, add 1/4 cup of vinegar mixed with 3/4 cup of water to the rinse cycle. It will soften clothes, but will also help to sanitize the clothing.

Check used clothes for malfunctions. Make sure there are no pins, open safety pins, or broken hook and eye closures that can cause your baby discomfort. Check seams to make sure they are sturdy and will not tear out the first time you put the outfit on your baby.

Remove long ties or straps, such as hoodie ties. Baby's can suck these down their airways and choke. They can also become tangled in them and strangle themselves.

My babies, and most of the babies in my extended family, at one time or another wore used clothing. If they are unstained, lightly worn, and freshly laundered, used baby clothes are a good bargain.

Used clothes can be found at yard sales, on eBay, and through family friends.

Baby Boy Layettes Make Ideal Baby Gifts