The Best Newborn Clothes to Stock Up on
Searching for the best newborn clothes to add to your little one’s wardrobe? Whether you’re starting your registry, staring down a mountain of baby shower gifts or looking into the wide eyes of your days-old newborn (who, surprise, just spit up again!), chances are, you may have that nagging sense that you’re missing some infant-wear essentials. And you very well might be—with all the adorable stuff out there, it’s easy to miss the not-so-obvious but oh-so-necessary items.
From a coming home outfit to everyday basics, there are quite a few different types of newborn baby clothes you’ll need. The good news? We’ve made a short list of the best newborn clothes every parent should own, along with a few cute options from some of the best baby clothing brands. Plus, you can snag some handy tips on how to dress a newborn.
Overwhelmed by too many choices? Here are four top online destinations to shop for cute newborn baby clothes. These stores stock all types of baby clothes, so you can check everything off your list at once. Whether you’re looking for affordable baby bodysuits to buy in bulk or you want to invest in some high-quality infant wear, you’re sure to find the best newborn baby clothes to suit your needs.
- Carter’s: Carter’s is the place to shop for budget-friendly newborn clothing. You’ll find everything from practical baby bodysuits to cute rompers. Be sure to check out Little Planet by Carter’s too—each piece is sustainably made using organic fabric. Newborn clothes that are affordable, eco-friendly and cute? Yes, please! And don’t miss out on their Black Friday deal: between now and 11/26, take 60% off everything on their site!
- Kissy Kissy: Kissy Kissy is a firm favorite with The Bump editors. Why? This brand uses the finest Peruvian Pima cotton to create premium newborn baby clothes that are both soft and durable. We adore the brand’s signature baby sleepers and hats. Pieces are on the pricey side, but the brand’s heirloom-quality newborn clothing is worth the investment; styles can be passed onto new siblings down the line. Plus, Kissy Kissy’s baby clothes sets make fantastic baby shower gifts.
- Monica and Andy: This mom-founded brand is a real winner. Monica and Andy uses only the softest GOTS-certified organic cotton and offers fun, mix-and-match designs that parents adore. Browse a range of bodysuits, pants and hats, along with all-in-one sets. Bonus: For an additional fee, Monica and Andy offers a personalization service. And if that wasn’t enough, they’ve also got a Black Friday deal going on—from now through 11/27, take 40% off sitewide!
- Spearmint Love: If you like to shop around, Spearmint Love carries a fantastic range of baby clothes for newborns. The site features top brands such as Burt’s Bees Baby and Finn & Emma. Whether you’re looking for complete newborn outfits or separates, this online store has it all.
First up on our list of the best newborn clothes? The classic baby bodysuit. It’s a shirt! It’s a complete outfit! It’s whatever you want it to be. Baby bodysuits—aka onesies—form the corner-stone of your newborn’s wardrobe. They’re a go-to shower gift, but it’s a good idea to have varying sizes on hand, so you can keep pace with your quickly growing baby. Plus, with infants going through as many as four or five clean ones in a day (hello, spit-up and blowouts), you can practically never have enough. Luckily, many brands sell baby bodysuits in affordable multi-packs.
Organic cotton bodysuits pack
It’s nice to have a selection of solid color bodysuits as well as prints to easily mix and match, like this cute three-pack from Carter’s. But regardless of the pattern, look for baby bodysuits with envelope-style necks. Those cute little flaps on the shoulders actually serve a vital purpose: After a major diaper leak, they let you pull the bodysuit down over baby’s torso and legs instead of up over the head for a more sanitary outfit change.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn to 24 months
- Material: GOTS-certified 100 percent organic cotton
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Long-sleeve thermal bodysuits
What’s better than a great bodysuit for baby? Why, four, of course—bonus points when they’re soft and adorable, like this set from Carter’s. Each bodysuit features thermal material that would coordinate perfectly with khakis or jeans for babies, and are cozy for chilly weather.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Preemie to 24 months
- Material: 100 percent cotton
- Cleaning:Machine-washable
Organic short-sleeve bodysuit
Looking for a simple, match-with-anything bodysuit for baby? Look no further than this organic cotton option from Primary. It’s available in a ton of bright hues (and some neutrals too!), and also features button snaps and that all-important envelope neckline.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn to 24 months
- Material: GOTS-certified 100 percent organic cotton
- Cleaning: Machine-washable with like colors
The best newborn baby clothes are versatile, and that’s why we love wrap-style baby tops. Besides being super cute, these loose T-shirts with side snaps or ties have minimal contact with a newborn’s still-sensitive umbilical cord stump. Plus, while you and baby are still getting used to dressing, having shirts that don’t have to be pulled over your infant’s face can be a real lifesaver. This newborn clothing staple comes in short- and long-sleeve styles and can be worn as a top or a thin cover-up over a bodysuit.
Wrap-style baby shirt
Hello, cuteness! This basic wrap-style baby shirt is a must-pack item in your hospital bag. Made from a super soft heathered cotton material and available in eight basic colors and a limited-edition farm print, this newborn wrap is a baby essential.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn to 3 months
- Material: 100 percent organic cotton
- Cleaning: Machine wash, tumble dry low
Pointelle long-sleeve shirt
For a newborn essential that feels totally luxurious, pick up this crisp, white pointelle wrap-style shirt to tuck into your hospital bag. Made of ultra-soft Peruvian pima cotton and featuring subtle pointelle detailing at the cuffs, this newborn shirt is perfect for those photo opportunities!
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn to 6 months
- Material: 100 percent Peruvian Pima cotton
- Cleaning: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Short-sleeve kimono
This wrap-style baby shirt is slightly different from the other two on our list, in that it has bottom snaps. That means it'll cover baby’s belly button, but the wrap style still makes those earlier diaper changes that much easier. We love the upscale stripes on this baby shirt, and the tiny tie that holds the wrap together. Choose from a long-sleeve or short-sleeve option.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: 0 to 18 months
- Material: 100 percent organic cotton
- Cleaning: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Believe it or not, the humble baby hat is an essential piece of newborn baby clothing, no matter the season. There’s a reason the hospital nurses popped a hat on your brand-new baby’s head, even before a diaper: Since newborns get cold easily, a hat is a great way to help them regulate their body temperature. Not to mention that baby beanies are super adorable! Throw a baby beanie hat in your diaper bag and pull it out in a chilly restaurant, car or store to keep your little one comfy, regardless of what the weather is like. Some styles have a tip that you tie into a knot, letting you easily adjust the size as baby grows.
Set of four baby beanies
Snag this four pack of beanies, and never have to worry about shopping for baby caps again. Seeing pink? Choose the ballerina-style pack, which features pinks and grays and is finished off with a sweet, oversized bow. There’s also a blue set, and one featuring adorable bear ears. Such a cute option for baby!
Baby top knot cap
We’re simply gaga for this top knot cap from Monica + Andy. Not only is it available in tons of different adorable colors and patterns to coordinate with just about any of baby’s clothing, it’s just, well, so cute. And the super-soft fabric is icing on the cake!
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: One size fits most
- Material: 100 percent organic cotton
- Cleaning: Machine wash, tumble dry low
Top-knot beanie
This top-knot beanie is crafted with a combination of Lyocel tencel fabric and cotton for a soft yet breathable cap for baby’s sensitive head. Choose from several chic patterns suitable for both boys and girls, in two sizes that will fit most babies during the entire first year of life.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Available in two sizes, 0 to 6 months and 6 to 12 months
- Material: 68 percent Tencel lyocell, 26 percent organic cotton, 6 percent spandex
- Cleaning: Machine wash gentle cycle, tumble dry low and lay flat
Baby rompers are cute and practical, earning them a well-deserved spot on our list of the best newborn clothes. Also sometimes called a one-piece or bubble, a baby romper is a top and bottom all in one, usually with snaps at the crotch for easy diaper changes. Not only do rompers mean fewer pieces of clothing to put on a squirmy baby, but they also come in fun, fashion-forward prints and patterns, making them an ideal option for playdates, family gatherings or photoshoots. A newborn romper can be worn over a bodysuit or on its own for a cute warm-weather look.
Zippered romper
It doesn’t get much more versatile than this long-sleeved baby romper from KyteBaby. Featuring a zipper that goes all the way from chin to ankle, this crazy-soft romper is available in a myriad of colors, patterns and even a few seasonal options as well. Fold-over cuffs on smaller sizes keep tinies from scratching themselves, while a protective zipper tab prevents any chin injuries.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn to 4T
- Material: Soft, breathable bamboo rayon
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Snap-up romper
A Carter’s romper for babies is an absolute classic. These rompers feature snap-up fronts and frilled sleeves for a feminine look for girls, and tee- or tank-style sleeves for boys. Choose from a ton of different kid-friendly patterns on these easy-to-wash rompers.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn to 24 months
- Material: 100 percent cotton rib fabric
Muslin romper
Stylish comfort is the name of the game with this cute baby romper from Hanna Andersson. Featuring an amazingly soft muslin material, a snappy collar perfect for photos and five fade-free patterns, this baby romper definitely deserves a spot in your little one’s wardrobe.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: 0 months to 3T
- Material: Cotton muslin with a cotton voile lining
- Cleaning: Machine-wash cold, hang to dry
Soft, stretchy leggings make a great addition to any newborn baby outfit. They’re great for quick walks in the baby carrier, when the weather turns cool and when baby begins to crawl. And there are a number of ways to style them: pulled up over a baby bodysuit, paired with a baby kimono top or worn under dresses or shorts. Look for baby leggings in comfortable fabrics like cotton that won’t irritate or chafe baby’s sensitive skin.
Five-pack cotton leggings
If you’re not looking to break the bank on baby basics like leggings, this five-pack from H&M is perfect for you. You’ll get a few pairs of cotton leggings in various colors, so you’ll always have something warm to pop on baby, even on laundry day. Choose from several different packs, some that include basics like black and beige, and others that feature several coordinating colors.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Preemie to 4T
- Material: 95 percent cotton, 5 percent spandex
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Cotton baby leggings
You can always count on parent-favorite brand Primary for quality basics for babies and kids—and this pair of baby leggings is no exception. For less than $10, you’ll get a pair of soft yet durable leggings, available in a variety of sizes and fun, bright colors.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: 0 to 24 months
- Material: 93 percent cotton, 7 percent spandex; pre-washed to minimize shrinkage
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Three-pack bamboo leggings
These baby leggings from Baby Mori feature cuffs at the bottom, which help them stay in place as baby kicks and plays. Best of all, they come in several cute but subtle colors and patterns. Also helpful? A stretchy waistband that pulls down for easy diaper changes. We’re sold!
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn to 3T
- Material: 30 percent organic cotton, 70 percent bamboo from viscose fabric
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Can’t tell your bodysuits from your sleepers? No worries—we’re here to help. A sleeper is an all-in-one outfit, often made from cotton or fleece, that keeps newborns warm and cozy as they snooze. But these handy newborn ensembles aren’t just for bedtime; baby sleepers can be worn at home during tummy time or even on outings. More often than not, sleepers have long sleeves and cover baby’s feet—perfect for keeping your little one as snug as a bug anytime, anywhere. In addition, many styles have zip-up or snap-front fastenings, making diaper changes a breeze. Stock up on a few of these versatile newborn baby outfits, as you’ll probably use at least one a day.
Baby zippered sleeper
An infant and baby staple, this long-sleeved zip sleeper from Hanna Andersson is a must-have item. A chin-to-knee zipper makes diaper changes a snap, flat-lock seams allow for added comfort and the amazing array of super-cute, kid-friendly patterns (everything from hearts to rocket ships) will have you coming back for more.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: 0 months to 3T
- Material: Organic combed cotton rib knit
- Cleaning: Machine wash cold
Footed baby one-piece
This zippable sleeper from Gap is one of our favorite baby sleepers for its soft material and cute patterns. The footed sleeper ensures baby stays warm but not overheated, thanks to the soft but lightweight cotton material. Choose from a pink print, a green print or a sand/beige checkered print.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Preemie to 9 months
- Material: 100 percent cotton
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Patterned zippered sleeper
This is the baby sleeper that has it all. Not only is it completely adorable—featuring phases of the moon in chic navy and beige tones—but it’s incredibly soft and breathable as well, thanks to the unique bamboo rayon fabric. And there’s more: The company has thought of every detail, adding fold-over flats to make it footed and cuffs on the hands to prevent scratching, while also making it tagless. Needless to say, we’re obsessed!
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Preemie to 3T
- Material: Custom-milled Lunaluxe bamboo viscose fabric
- Cleaning: Machine-wash cold
For the littlest set, a sleeper gown is a lifesaver when it comes to all those diaper changes (especially the nighttime ones!). These are sleepers that don’t have feet, but rather the bottom is completely open, often with a slightly gathered opening. They make it super easy to access baby’s diaper, since you don’t have to worry about snaps, buttons or zippers. Shop some of our favorite sleeper gowns below.
Convertible gown
How’s this for versatility? This infant sleeper gown converts to a regular sleeper just by using the snaps at the bottom. That’s key, since sleeper gowns really only work for the first few weeks of life. Functionality aside, we love the super soft fabric and cute chick print on this baby sleeper gown.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn and small
- Material: 100 percent Pima cotton
- Cleaning: Machine-wash cold, tumble dry low
Pack of infant sleeper gowns
We’re huge fans of Carter’s sleeper gowns because they’re affordable, washable and, of course, cute! Here, you’ll get three sleeper gowns (likely all you’ll need!) in a variety of gender-neutral colors and patterns. These cotton sleepers feature envelope necklines for easy dressing and removal, cinched hems to help prevent baby’s feet from getting cold and cuffs at the hands to prevent scratching.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn and 0 to 3 months
- Material: 100 percent cotton
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Infant knotted gown
This ultra-soft infant sleeper gown from Little Sleepies is made from a light, breathable bamboo viscose fabric for the ultimate newborn comfort. Plus, we love the peaceful watercolor pattern that’s suitable for both girls and boys. Helpful features include a knotted bottom to keep baby’s feet snug and warm, a stretchy neckline for easy dressing and cuffed hands to prevent scratching.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: One size fits most
- Material: 95 percent viscose from bamboo, 5 percent spandex
- Cleaning: Machine-wash cold
The next essential on our list of the best newborn clothes is small but mighty: a pair of socks. Regardless of what month baby was born, having plenty of socks makes it simple to make sure those itty-bitty feet stay warm, whether it’s cold outside or arctic-like inside, thanks to blasting AC. Of course, babies are notorious for kicking their socks off, so look for options with sturdy elastic tops. Another shopping tip: Buy several packs of the same color or pattern, so it won’t be an emergency if one goes missing. After all, those tiny socks are hard to keep track of.
No-slip socks
Socks aren’t something you probably want to put a ton of thought into, which is why this four-pack is great. Just one click and you’ll get four pairs of socks, which is especially helpful when they start to mysteriously get lost in the laundry. Choose from a few different match-with-anything colors, or simply opt for white for easy matching.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: 0 to 24 months
- Material: 77 percent organic cotton, 19 percent recycled polyester, 2 percent elastane, 2 percent nylon
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Baby ankle socks
If you’re a fan of Burt’s Bees’ baby clothing, you’ve got to snag this six-pack of organic cotton baby socks. The pack features three pairs of socks in two solid colors (gray and white) for ultimate matchability right out of the dryer. Grippy bottoms and a gentle elastic ankle round out the great features of these baby socks.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: 0 months to 5T
- Material: 72 percent organic cotton, 26 percent recycled polyester, 2 percent spandex
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Snap baby socks
Say bye-bye to losing those tiny baby socks in the laundry when you opt for these clever snap-together socks. A tiny snap in the back of each fits with the other sock, allowing you to keep them together during washing and drying, and the socks come in packs of three.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: 6 months to 3T
- Material: 85 percent cotton, 10 percent polyester, 5 percent elastic fiber
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Let’s round out our list of the best newborn clothes with a couple of layette sets. A layette is a collection of essential items you’ll need after baby’s arrival. Rather than purchasing everything piece by piece, you can pick up a curated collection of clothing at many stores—or simply add a layette set to your registry.
Bee-themed layette box
This wooden box comes chock-full of just about everything you’ll need for baby’s first three months, including five onesies, two hooded towels, infant sleepers, receiving blankets, washcloths and much more. Beautifully packaged, it makes the perfect gift, either for your own little one or someone else’s.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: 0 to 3 months and 3 to 6 months
- Comes with 28 items
- Arrives packaged in a decorative box
Newborn clothing set
How sweet is this “suitcase” full of chic, soft baby items? Choose from pink or blue items that come stuffed in the suitcase, with everything baby will need for that all-important trip home from the hospital. This gift set includes a cardigan, pants, socks and a beanie. Just imagine the photos!
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: One size fits most
- Material: 80 percent nylon, 20 percent rayon
- Cleaning: Machine-wash, tumble dry low
Baby starter set
This beautifully packaged layette set comes with tons of baby essentials from the upscale brand Baby Mori. You’ll get 11 essentials—all of which can be personalized for an extra charge—including a sleep sack, onesies, footed sleepers and a receiving blanket. Choose from three striped patterns or a solid gray, each of which is suitable for boys and girls.
Specs at a glance:
- Sizing: Newborn to 9 months
- Material: Products are either 100 percent cotton or cotton/viscose blend
- Cleaning: Machine-washable
Plus, more from The Bump:
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