“These precious souls aren’t doing much, other than sleeping, feeding, and pooping.”
And in between your newborn sleeping, feeding, and pooping, you’re going to be changing a lot of newborn clothes.
Registering for baby clothes can feel like math homework with its own vocabulary, strategies, and organizing principles. Do you really need newborn sizes? What size will the baby be wearing by next winter? How many onesies does a baby actually need, and how often do they need to be replaced?
As a newborn photographer serving Redlands families, I’ve seen just how many parents come into the studio with questions like these. The truth? In those early weeks, you don’t need a huge wardrobe. You’ll be sticking close to home, resting and bonding with your baby, and doing LOTS of laundry.
Here’s a pared-back list of the basics, and tips to help Redlands parents navigate those first two months with confidence.
What to Consider When Buying Newborn Clothes
Does my baby need newborn clothes sizes?
Newborn sizing is usually for babies between 5–8 pounds, and it fits most infants for only the first 2–4 weeks. Many families choose to keep just a few newborn basics on hand. Since laundry is a daily event in those first weeks, buying conservatively makes sense.
Stick with the essentials: onesies, undershirts, and PJs. Chances are, you won’t be dressing your baby for outings yet, so skip the frilly dresses or button-up shirts until your baby is a little older.
Can newborns wear 0–3 month sizes right away?
Yes! Many Redlands parents opt for 0–3 month sizes right from the start. The fit will be a little loose at first, but your baby will grow into them within a few weeks. If you don’t mind cuffing sleeves or rolling pant legs, 0–3 can be the practical choice.
New Baby Clothes Checklist
Here’s what I recommend keeping on hand for those first eight weeks:
- 6–8 bodysuits and/or onesies
Cotton bodysuits are the foundation of a newborn wardrobe. Look for envelope necklines (so you can slide messy onesies down instead of over baby’s head) or side-snap kimono styles, which are gentler on tiny necks. - 3–4 pairs of pants or leggings
Soft cotton leggings are easy to layer over a bodysuit. Choose waistbands that don’t squeeze baby’s tummy. - 4–5 sleepers or footed pajamas
Zippers are convenient at 3 a.m., but some parents prefer snaps. Try both to see what works best. A couple of gown-style sleepers are also helpful for quick diaper changes. - 1–3 special outfits
For family photos, first outings, or meeting grandparents. Most days you’ll stick to basics, but it’s nice to have one or two special outfits ready. - 5–6 pairs of socks
Especially for cooler weather in Redlands, though many babies manage to kick them off constantly! - 2–3 hats
A soft beanie keeps your baby cozy during the day, but always remove it before naps and nighttime sleep.
Mix and Match: A Practical Wardrobe
By sticking to neutral basics, you can mix and match easily without overstuffing drawers. For example:
- 6–8 bodysuits
- 3–4 pants
- 4–5 pajamas
- 5–6 socks
- 2–3 hats
That’s plenty of combinations for the first two months. Babies grow quickly, and you’ll soon be packing these away for the next stage.
Laundry Tips for Newborn Clothes
Redlands families know our summers can be hot and our winters chilly, so laundering with gentle fabrics in mind is key.
- Always pre-wash new baby clothes before use.
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent designed for sensitive skin.
- Wash in cold water on a delicate cycle to prevent shrinking.
- Skip fabric softeners, which can irritate baby’s skin.
- Air dry when possible, or use a low-heat dryer setting.
Pro tip: do smaller, frequent loads. It’s less overwhelming and you won’t end up with piles of unfolded laundry when you’d rather be resting.
Wrapping It Up
When it comes to newborn clothes, less really is more. For Redlands parents, the key is focusing on comfort, practicality, and easy laundry. A simple, versatile wardrobe will carry you through those first precious weeks while you focus on bonding with your baby.
And if you want to capture your little one in those tiny outfits before they’re outgrown, don’t wait too long. This stage passes quickly. My Redlands newborn photography studio is all about preserving those early memories in a way that lasts far beyond the laundry basket.
If you’re expecting or have recently welcomed your baby, I’d love to help you create timeless portraits that celebrate this fleeting stage. Contact me today to start planning your newborn session.
