In the days before your baby arrives, you will pack your hospital bag and include a baby take home outfit. Before heading to your local shopping mall in search of the cutest, fanciest baby outfit you can find, take a moment to consider the practicalities.
Cute, lacy newborn dresses and dressy baby boy outfits may catch your eye, but you may want to consider something less fancy. The outfits may look adorable, but there are several things you may want to consider before making your purchase.
Is it important to you that your baby be able to wear this outfit again? Will you want to save it as a keepsake or heirloom? Be aware that this special outfit could possibly become stained with the iodine on the baby's umbilical cord. Babies also have accidents that stain clothing. Also note that due to these things; you may want to have a back-up outfit tucked away just in case.
The baby's comfort should always be of the utmost importance when selecting your outfit. Your baby is accustomed to being warm and cozy inside mom's tummy, and for this reason, a soft cotton onesie would be ideal.
Avoid cute gowns since your baby's car seat will need to buckle between his or her legs. Make sure the outfit is warm enough but not too hot. An infant cap should also be worn. Since newborns cannot regulate their body temperatures in the same way that adults can, these hats protect them from losing heat through their heads. Baby socks or baby booties will protect their feet.
Choosing an outfit in which to take home your baby can be a family event. If you already have another child at home, involve him or her in the shopping process. Big brother or sister can help you find the softest fabric or tell you which outfit he or she likes best.
Make sure to end your shopping trip with a stop at your local supermarket to pick up some special detergent. You do not want to wash your baby's clothes in traditional, harsh detergents. Choose a mild product such as Dreft that caters to newborns ultra-sensitive skin.
Finally, remember that any newborn's outfit is not complete without a soft receiving blanket. Swaddled snugly in a fuzzy blanket, being carried to the car, your baby will feel warm and secure.
