When summer arrives and you have a new baby in the house, ensuring they are dressed appropriately becomes a top priority. The warm and often humid weather of summer calls for specific types of clothing that keep the baby comfortable, protected from the sun, and allow for easy movement. Parents might find themselves a bit overwhelmed when trying to figure out exactly what to buy for their newborn’s summer wardrobe. This article will take a comprehensive look at the essential clothing items for a newborn in summer, from the types of outfits to the best fabrics and even some tips on accessorizing.
Basic Outfit Requirements for Newborns in Summer
Onesies
Onesies are a staple in any baby’s wardrobe, and this holds true for summer as well. For summer, short – sleeved onesies are the way to go. They are incredibly convenient, with snap – closures at the bottom that make diaper changes a breeze. Newborns are prone to frequent diaper changes, and the snap – closures on onesies allow for quick and easy access.
When it comes to the number of onesies, having 5 – 7 is a good starting point. This number provides enough for daily changes, taking into account that babies can be messy. Spit – ups and small accidents are common, so having a few extra onesies ensures that your baby can always be in a clean and fresh outfit.
The material of the onesies is crucial. Light – weight cotton is an excellent choice. Cotton is breathable, which means it allows air to circulate around the baby’s body, keeping them cool. It is also hypoallergenic, making it gentle on a newborn’s delicate skin. Bamboo – based fabrics are another great option. Bamboo is even softer than some types of cotton and is highly breathable. It also has natural antibacterial properties, which can be beneficial for a baby’s sensitive skin.
Shorts and Lightweight Dresses
In addition to onesies, shorts and lightweight dresses are essential for a newborn’s summer wardrobe. For baby boys, a few pairs of soft – fabric shorts are a must. Shorts should be loose – fitting to allow for easy movement. They can be paired with a short – sleeved onesie or a simple t – shirt. Aim for 3 – 5 pairs of shorts.
For baby girls, lightweight dresses are a cute and practical option. Dresses can be made from cotton or a cotton – blend fabric. They should be loose – fitting and not too long to avoid tripping hazards as the baby starts to move around. A – line or empire – waisted dresses are often a good choice as they are comfortable and flattering. Having 3 – 5 lightweight dresses in the newborn’s wardrobe will ensure that she has plenty of options for different occasions.
Footwear and Headwear for Summer
Socks
Socks are still important for newborns in summer, even though it’s warm. Newborns have a hard time regulating their body temperature, and keeping their feet covered can help. However, in summer, you should choose thin and breathable socks. Look for socks made from cotton or a cotton – blend with a bit of stretch.
Avoid socks that are too tight around the ankles, as this can restrict blood circulation. Having 5 – 7 pairs of socks is a good idea. This allows for daily changes and also gives you some extras in case of loss or dirt.
Sun Hats
A sun hat is an absolute must – have for a newborn in summer. The sun’s rays can be harmful to a baby’s delicate skin, and a sun hat provides much – needed protection. When choosing a sun hat, look for one with a wide brim. A wide – brimmed hat can protect the baby’s face, ears, and neck from the sun.
The material of the hat should be breathable. Cotton or a cotton – blend is a good choice. Some hats also come with a chin – strap to keep the hat in place, especially if the baby is active. There are different styles of sun hats available, such as bucket hats, floppy hats, and baseball – style hats. Choose a style that you think will be comfortable for your baby and that suits your personal taste.
Special Considerations for Summer Clothing
Sun Protection
In addition to a sun hat, it’s important to consider sun protection when choosing summer clothing for a newborn. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. Clothing with a high UPF rating can block a significant amount of the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Some lightweight fabrics can be treated to have a higher UPF rating. For example, certain types of cotton can be specially processed to provide better sun protection. If you can’t find clothing with a UPF rating, you can also consider using a light – weight, long – sleeved cover – up when the baby is exposed to the sun for longer periods.
Breathability and Moisture – Wicking
As mentioned earlier, breathability is crucial for summer clothing. In addition to breathable fabrics, look for clothing that has moisture – wicking properties. Newborns can sweat, especially in the summer heat, and moisture – wicking fabrics can help keep them dry.
Accessories for Newborn Summer Outfits
Bibs
Bibs are an essential accessory for a newborn, especially in summer. Babies are prone to spit – ups and drooling, and bibs can help keep their clothes clean. In summer, choose lightweight and breathable bibs. Cotton bibs are a good choice, and there are also bibs made from a waterproof material on the back to prevent the moisture from seeping through to the baby’s clothes.
Having 5 – 7 bibs is a good idea. This allows for daily changes and also gives you some extras in case of spills or dirt. There are different styles of bibs available, such as bandana – style bibs, which are not only functional but also look cute on babies.
Sunglasses
While it may seem a bit early to think about sunglasses for a newborn, they can actually be beneficial in summer. Sunglasses can protect the baby’s eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Look for sunglasses that are specifically designed for babies.
These sunglasses should be made from a soft and flexible material to ensure they are comfortable for the baby. They should also have a good fit to prevent them from slipping off easily. Some sunglasses come with a strap to keep them in place.However, it’s important to note that not all babies will tolerate wearing sunglasses, so it may take some time and patience to get your baby used to them.
Tips for Buying and Maintaining Newborn Summer Clothing
Buying Considerations
When buying summer clothing for a newborn, always check the size. Newborns grow quickly, so it’s a good idea to buy clothes that are slightly larger to allow for growth. However, don’t go too big, as overly large clothes can be uncomfortable and may pose a safety hazard.
Look for clothing that is easy to put on and take off. Newborns can be fussy, and clothing with large openings for the head and arms can make dressing and undressing easier. Also, consider the brand and its reputation for quality. Reading reviews from other parents can give you an idea of the fit, durability, and comfort of the clothing.
Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance of newborn summer clothing is important to keep them in good condition. Most summer clothing for newborns, especially those made from cotton, can be machine – washed. However, always check the care instructions on the label.
Wash clothes in a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as these can be harsh on the baby’s skin. Hang the clothes to dry or use a low – heat setting in the dryer. This helps to preserve the shape and color of the clothing.
In conclusion, having the right clothing for a newborn in summer is essential for their comfort and well – being. By considering the basic outfit requirements, footwear and headwear, special considerations like sun protection and breathability, layers for indoor and outdoor transitions, accessories, and following the tips for buying and maintaining the clothing, parents can ensure that their little one is dressed appropriately for the summer months. Remember, every baby is unique, and you may need to adjust your choices based on your baby’s specific needs and preferences. But with careful planning, you can create a summer wardrobe for your newborn that is both practical and stylish.
Related topics:
- WHAT TO WEAR WITH WOOLINO SLEEP SACKS?
- ARE CHEAP INFANT NAME BRAND CLOTHES WORTH BUYING?
- WHAT TO WEAR TO BED?
