The 8 most essential items of clothing every newborn needs

Many new parents find it hard to resist all that adorable infant clothing. However, if you're on a budget, here are the eight essential items of clothing every newborn needs.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re preparing to welcome a new baby into the world. Choosing newborn clothes doesn’t have to be hard. Stick with quality essentials that make it easy on mom and dad—and the budget.

These adorable one-piece bodysuit outfits snap at the crotch.

• Depending on the time of year your baby is born, you can opt for either long-sleeve or short-sleeve onesies.

These are typically better than onesies until the baby's umbilical cord falls off.

• They can be either short- or long-sleeved.
• Choose undershirts that snap or tie on the side. They’re easier to put on than undershirts that have to be pulled over baby's head.

Until your child starts walking, shoes are more trouble than they’re worth.

• Choose elasticized socks and booties to keep baby's tiny tootsies warm, as they're more likely to stay on little kicking feet.

You can never have too many baby bibs.

Choose long gowns that close at the bottom to keep baby's feet warm and make changing diapers a breeze.

The built-in feet help keep baby cosy all night long.

Depending on the weather, hats will protect your baby’s head from the sun and keep your baby snug and warm.

Your newborn might need a few of these, or possibly even a snowsuit.

It’s always a good idea to wash new clothes before baby wears them. This will soften the fabric and help prevent rashes. Use a gentle detergent and avoid bleach, dryer sheets and fabric softener.

• Fabric: Choose natural silks or cottons that are easy on a baby’s sensitive skin.
• Size: Clothing that is too small or even too big can be uncomfortable. When in doubt, buy a size up so that your baby can at least get some wear from the outfit even as he or she grows rapidly.
• Neckline: Newborn outfits should feature an elasticized neckline that’s neither too loose nor too tight.
• Cost: Go for quality over quantity in order to protect baby’s sensitive skin.
• Season: Make sure you’ve got infant clothing items for the current season so baby can wear them right away.
• Gender: Whether you’re looking for baby girl clothes or baby boy clothes, don’t worry if an all-pink or all-blue wardrobe isn’t your style. Any colour goes.

Stocking up on newborn baby clothes is a fun and exciting experience for new parents. Buying plenty of quality essentials is best for baby and for your budget.