What to Look for When Selecting Baby Clothes for the First Year

Bringing home a new baby is a big, exciting moment. But choosing clothes for your little one can feel confusing at first. What do you really need? How do you know what size fits? And what fabrics are best for soft, sensitive skin?

This guide is here to help! No matter if you're a new parent, a thoughtful gift-giver, or just building a baby registry, we’ll walk you through the must-knows of picking baby clothes for the first year. 

You'll learn how babies grow, what types of clothes are actually useful, and how to keep comfort and safety first.

A Look at Baby Clothing Sizes and Growth Stages

Babies grow fast. Really fast. One day those tiny socks fit, and the next, you’re wondering if they shrunk in the wash. So, when shopping, it helps to understand baby clothing sizes and growth stages.

How Baby Clothing Sizes Work

Baby clothes are usually labeled by age, like:

• Newborn (NB)
  

• 0–3 months
  

• 3–6 months
  

• 6–9 months
  

• 9–12 months

But here’s the trick: not all babies grow at the same rate. Some newborns outgrow newborn sizes in just a few weeks. Others might fit into 0–3 months right from the start. Always check the weight and height guidelines on the label to help you choose the right size.

What to Expect During the First Year

• Newborn Stage (0–3 months): You’ll want soft, easy-to-change clothes like footed sleepers and onesies. This is when babies wear the best baby clothes for newborns—things that keep them cozy and don’t irritate their skin.
  

• 3–6 months: Your baby starts moving more. Stretchy pants, short-sleeve bodysuits, and zipper rompers are helpful here.
  

• 6–12 months: Babies may begin crawling and even pulling up to stand. You’ll want sturdy but comfortable baby clothing that lets them move freely.

Tip: Don’t buy too much in one size. Babies can skip sizes or grow out of things quickly.

Why Fabric and Comfort Matter Most

When it comes to baby clothes, what they’re made of is just as important as how they look. Babies have delicate skin, and they can get uncomfortable easily. That’s why fabric and comfort should be your top priorities.

Best Baby Clothes Fabrics to Choose

Some fabrics feel nice in your hands but may not be great for your baby’s skin. Here are some better options:

• Cotton: Soft, breathable, and gentle—great for everyday wear.
  

• Organic cotton: Even better! It’s grown without harsh chemicals, making it a smart choice for baby clothing for sensitive skin.
  

• Bamboo: Light and naturally moisture-wicking.
  

• Blends (like cotton-spandex): Add stretch for comfort without giving up softness.
  

These are great baby clothes fabric choices to keep your baby comfy all day.

Watch for These Features

• Flat seams or seamless styles: These reduce rubbing on your baby’s skin.
  

• No scratchy tags: Tagless designs or printed labels are best.
  

• Easy fasteners: Look for snaps, zippers, or wide necks that make changing quicker.
  
  

If you’re choosing items from a baby layette set essentials checklist, go for pieces with soft fabric and simple designs first. Things like bodysuits, sleepers, and swaddles matter more than fancy outfits early on.

And if your baby has extra sensitive skin? Organic baby clothing is worth it. It’s gentle, safe, and perfect for peace of mind.

What to Look for When Selecting Baby Clothes for the First Year

Choosing clothes for your baby isn’t just about finding something cute—although that part is fun. It’s really about finding pieces that are soft, simple, and safe. Babies have sensitive skin, grow quickly, and need clothes that are easy to wear (and easy to clean). Below is a rundown on the things you should keep in mind when building your first year baby wardrobe.

1. Pick the Right Size at the Right Time

Babies grow a lot in the first year, so sizes can change fast. Here’s a quick tip: always check both the age and the weight/height guidelines on the label. Some clothes may say "0–3 months" but fit babies up to 12 pounds. Others may run smaller or larger depending on the brand.

What to look for:

• Stretchy necklines or snap shoulders for easy dressing
  

• Built-in feet on sleepers (especially helpful for wiggly newborns!)
  

• Clothing that doesn’t leave marks on the skin—this could mean it’s too tight

Use a newborn clothing guide or size chart from the brand if you’re unsure. Many parents like to have a few sizes on hand, just in case baby skips a size (yes, it happens).

2. Focus on Comfort First

Babies spend a lot of time sleeping, stretching, and being carried. So they need clothes that feel good, move easily, and don’t get in the way. Prioritize comfortable baby clothing over fashion, especially in the early months.

Look for:

• Soft seams (or no seams at all)
  

• Tagless labels or printed size info
  

• Wide openings for heads, arms, and legs

And remember, buttons and zippers are okay—as long as they don’t press against the baby’s skin. If you're dressing your baby at 3 a.m., you'll also be grateful for easy snaps or zippers during diaper changes!

3. Choose Safe and Gentle Fabrics

The fabric your baby wears matters a lot. Their skin is much more sensitive than adults'. Some babies may get rashes or red spots from rough or synthetic materials.

The best baby clothes fabric choices include:

• Cotton: Soft, breathable, and gentle for daily wear
  

• Organic baby clothing: Free from chemicals and dyes; ideal for peace of mind
  

• Bamboo blends: Super soft and naturally cool

If your baby has extra-sensitive skin, go for baby clothing for sensitive skin. Look for clothes labeled “hypoallergenic” or “organic.” These are often safer and more soothing.

4. Stick with the Essentials

In the first year, babies don’t need a huge wardrobe. A few well-chosen basics can go a long way. Start with baby layette set essentials, which often include bodysuits, sleepers, pants, socks, hats, and mittens.

A good rule is to have:

• 6–8 onesies or bodysuits
  

• 4–6 sleepers or footed pajamas
  

• 2–3 hats (one for warmth, one for sun)
  

• Swaddles or wearable blankets
  

• A couple of dress-up outfits, if you like—but keep them comfy too

If you’re building your registry or getting gifts, point friends and family toward baby clothing essentials for the first year. These are the clothes your baby will wear over and over again.

5. Plan for All Seasons

Think about your local weather and how it changes during your baby’s first year. If you have a winter baby, go for layers—like long-sleeve bodysuits and cozy sleep sacks. For summer babies, choose lightweight cotton pieces that breathe well.

Tip: Always check the fabric weight. Some cottons are thick and warm; others are light and better for hot days.

6. Don’t Forget About Easy Care

Babies spit up. A lot. And they have diaper leaks. (It’s part of the deal!) So make sure the clothes you choose are easy to wash and hold up well in the laundry.

Choose clothes that:

• Can go in the washer and dryer
  

• Keep their shape after washing
  

• Don’t require ironing (because really—who has time for that?)

When shopping for the best baby clothes for newborns, check the label for care instructions. The easier they are to clean, the happier you'll be.

By focusing on size, comfort, fabric, and ease of care, you’ll build a smart, cozy, and practical first year baby wardrobe. And that means less stress—and more snuggles!

Conclusion

Choosing baby clothing essentials for the first year doesn’t have to be stressful. Start with the basics: soft, stretchy fabrics, the right sizes for your baby’s age and stage, and items that are easy to put on and take off. Keep comfort front and center, and you’ll be setting your baby up for a cozy, happy first year.

Want to make shopping easier? Explore our thoughtfully made clothes at Moonlight Layette—where softness, comfort, and care come first.