Baby Clothes for the First Months – Guide to Sizes, Seasons, and Fabrics

Dressing your newborn can feel overwhelming – babies grow fast and the weather changes throughout the year. Here’s an easy guide to what clothes your newborn really needs, which sizes work best, and how to dress your baby for every season.

Linnea Dinesen

Read time: 3 m

Written by Linnea Dinesen

Content Creator

Baby Clothes for the First Months – Guide to Sizes, Seasons, and FabricsPhoto: Preggers

Essential Baby Clothes for the First Year

When you have a baby, baby clothes are essential, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on soft, practical outfits that are easy to put on and take off. Stock a few items in sizes 0-3, 3-6, and 6-9 months (baby’s length or age) – these are commonly used in the first weeks at home from the hospital.

Tip: Items that are too small can usually be returned, and larger clothes will fit eventually.

Winter Baby Clothes – Keep Your Baby Warm

Layering is key in winter. Indoors, your baby doesn’t need too many layers, but check the neck and back as temperature indicators:

  • Neck warm → perfect temperature
  • Neck cold → add a layer
  • Neck sweaty → remove a layer

Extra winter tips:

  • Mittens for outdoors and soft socks indoors
  • Cozy booties to keep tiny feet warm
  • Soft, stretchy socks that stay on comfortably

Spring Baby Clothes – Layer Up

Spring weather can change quickly. Dress your baby in layers that can be removed or added depending on temperature and wind. As it gets warmer, remove the outer layer but keep a middle layer for comfort.

Summer Baby Clothes – Light and Breathable

Summer calls for light clothing, though layering still works for changing temperatures. Important: protect your baby’s head with sun hats tied under the chin.

Fall Baby Clothes – Flexible Dressing

Fall weather varies a lot. Use your baby’s neck and back to check if they are warm. Layering makes it easy to add or remove clothing as needed.

First Shoes – When Baby Starts Walking

When your baby begins walking outdoors, it’s time for shoes. Good first shoes are:

  • Flat and lightweight
  • High top with a smooth sole
  • Breathable materials to prevent sweaty feet

Checklist: Newborn Essentials

  • Bodysuits (short and long sleeves)
  • Soft pants and tops
  • Socks and booties
  • Outerwear for the season
  • Hat or sunhat
  • Optional: blanket or sleep sack

Key Tips

Dressing your baby doesn’t need to be stressful – focus on layering, soft fabrics, and practical clothes. A few key items can cover all weather conditions and your baby’s rapid growth.

Pro tip: Label clothing sizes and have extra basics on hand – it saves time and stress during the first weeks home.

Check out: Time to Buy a Stroller?

Linnea Dinesen

Written by Linnea Dinesen

Content Creator

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