Know simple rules for baby clothes shopping and your little one will enjoy his days in style and ease.
Many new parents don’t put too much thought when buying baby clothes. Indeed, when preparing their baby’s layette, most parents just head to a baby shop and buy the cutest outfits that catch their eye.
However, between the feedings, changing and soothing, the last thing you want is to fret over babywear that is too much hassle, irritates bubba or makes them cry and are generally a waste of space.
Did you know that there is more to choosing baby’s clothing than just the design? Factors such as the softness, size and even kind of fasteners used can affect your little champ’s mood. Imagine wearing an itchy, tight and warm outfit the entire day, your baby will not be happy. Worse, the wrong type of clothing can actually endanger your cherub’s life!
So, how do you make sure that the clothes you pick out will not only fit the baby, but also offers comfort and convenience? We have tips on how to selecting baby’s clothes for you!
1. Pick clothes in your baby’s size
Baby clothes are sized according to age. However, as everyone develops at a different rate, you should carefully choose based on your own baby’s size. Bubba might be the same age as your friend’s baby, but he could be a size bigger, or vice versa! As clothes sizes aren’t an indication of your baby’s growth, don’t worry if your little one wears a size bigger or a size smaller.
Be smart and pick apparel a size bigger (eg choose 3 to 6 months for a newborn instead of 0 to 3 months), so that you can extend its use. You can always roll the sleeves up if it is too long, unrolling them as your baby grows.
Although it’s pricier, bamboo is perfect for babies with eczema as it is hypoallergenic and is cool and soothing on the skin.
2. Pay attention to the fabric
Babywear can be made out of various materials, all with different levels of softness. The most common materials are blended cotton (mixed with a small percentage of man-made material such as polyester) or organic cotton (100 per cent cotton). Silky on your little champ’s soft skin, this will also keep him warm and comfy. However, if you prefer something even softer, organic bamboo is a popular choice. Although it’s pricier, bamboo is perfect for babies with eczema as it is hypoallergenic and is cool and soothing on the skin. Make sure to avoid getting woollen clothes as these can worsen eczema by irritating baby’s sensitive skin.
3. Look out for irritants
Clothing tags behind the neckline even irritates adults, so what more against baby’s delicate skin? Simply snip it off carefully, make sure to remove every bit of the tag as what’s left behind can cause even more irritation. Or pick clothes that are tag-free, since clothes details are printed on the fabric itself.
Metal buttons can also cause an allergic reaction in some kids, especially if your family has a history of allergies, so watch out for this, too! Be sure to throw bubba’s new togs in the wash with fragrance-free laundry detergent before letting your cutie wear them, as there might be leftover manufacturing chemicals on the clothes. Some manufacturers add a chemical finish on their clothes to prevent wrinkling, which can irritate baby’s skin.
4. Convenience is key
Babies usually change their clothes several times throughout the day because of spit-up, pee and poop, so it’s important to get clothes that are easy to put on and remove. The last thing you want is to struggle to dress and undress your mini-dynamo every time they are due for a clothes change. Look for easy fasteners and clothes with stretch as these will minimise the time you spend changing your peewee. It will also be less of a trauma as your kiddo will protest at the sudden temperature change when you remove their clothes.
* Fasteners: Zips, buttons and snaps are the most common types of fasteners you’ll find on clothing. Try to get snaps and zips instead of buttons as these are more convenient. Imagine trying to button the onesie while your little wriggler keeps flailing their arms and legs. Some outfits will also have a snap-over tab to prevent the zip from sliding down and also to protect bubba from scratches.
Look for attire with an envelope neckline as these are stretchy, so it’s easier to dress or undress your little one.
* Arm and neck holes: Wide neck- and arm-holes will ease removing junior’s clothes. Look for attire with an envelope neckline as these are stretchy, so it’s easier to dress or undress your little one. This will definitely come in handy when you have to deal with a poonami, since you won’t have to pull a stinky and soiled outfit over their head.
* Kimono style: Try the kimono-style onesies if you prefer to skip the hassle of having to pull your mini-me’s outfit over their head! The wrap-around design and easy snap fastenings allows you to dress your baby without having to touch their head.
5. Be careful of frills and ribbons
Anything that isn’t attached securely to your little darling’s duds is a choking hazard. Ribbons, sequins, beads or any other trimming might look cute, but these can be pulled off. So, it’s best to set these aside till bubba is older. Avoid kits with drawstrings as well, as these can cause strangulation. Opt for elastic bands instead!
6. Don’t buy in bulk
Because all baby clothes look so cute, you might be tempted to buy a lot of at one go. Resist as this won’t be wise because your little angel will grow faster than you can imagine. What fits them this month might not fit them the next, so it is better to buy just enough to last several months, then get more when they outgrows them. Many parents spend loads of money buying up a storm and end up having to give the baby clothes away before their kiddo even gets to wear them. So, don’t buy in bulk, but if there is a sale, you can consider getting clothes in bigger sizes for your tot.
Photos: iStock
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