Newborn Clothes: What to Buy, What to Avoid, and What Really Works

When your baby arrives, you’ll see a flood of options for newborn clothes, soft, simple garments designed for babies in their first weeks of life. Also known as infant wear, these items aren’t just cute—they need to be safe, easy to put on, and gentle on delicate skin. But not all newborn clothes are created equal. Some are too tight, too fancy, or even risky. The best ones? Simple, functional, and made for real life with a newborn.

Most UK parents quickly learn that newborn sizing, a category of clothing designed for babies up to 8-9 pounds and 21 inches long doesn’t last long—sometimes just a few days. That’s why buying too much in 0-3 month sizes can backfire. You’ll need a mix: enough baby clothing, practical, easy-to-change outfits for daily use to last through the chaos of diaper changes, feedings, and sleepless nights. Look for snap closures, stretchy fabrics, and no tags. Avoid anything with buttons, ribbons, or tight elastic. These aren’t fashion statements—they’re safety hazards.

What you don’t need? Fancy onesies with sequins, matching sets for photo shoots, or outfits that take five minutes to put on. What you do need? At least five to seven stretchy bodysuits, a few soft sleepers, a couple of swaddle blankets (or sleep sacks, which are safer), and maybe two hats for chilly days. And remember—your baby won’t care if their clothes match. They’ll care if they’re warm, dry, and not scratching their skin.

Some parents worry about cold feet, so they buy socks and booties. But in reality, your baby’s body temperature is best regulated by layers, not tiny footwear. Overdressing is one of the most common mistakes. If you’re warm in a t-shirt, your baby probably is too. Check their chest or back—not their hands or feet—to tell if they’re comfy.

You’ll also find tons of advice about organic cotton, bamboo, or hypoallergenic labels. While these can be nice, they’re not essential. What matters more is the weave, the fit, and whether the seams are flat. A simple 100% cotton onesie from a trusted brand will outlast a pricey "organic" one with rough stitching.

And here’s something most guides don’t say: you don’t need to buy all this before the baby arrives. Many parents end up with boxes of clothes they never use. Instead, keep a small stash ready—five or six outfits—and let your baby’s needs guide the rest. You’ll learn fast what works for your little one.

The posts below cover everything you didn’t know you needed to know about dressing your newborn. From how to choose the right size without guessing, to why certain fabrics can cause rashes, to what real parents in the UK actually buy and reuse. You’ll find advice on swaddle alternatives, safe sleep wear, and how to avoid the trap of buying too much too soon. No marketing fluff. Just clear, practical tips from parents who’ve been there.