Buying baby clothing can be an exciting experience for new parents, but it can also be a daunting task. With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. If you're a new parent in Australia, you may also need to consider factors like the climate, local fashion trends, and cultural preferences. 

In this quick guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to make informed decisions when buying baby clothing in Australia. From choosing the right size to understanding the different fabrics and styles available, we've got you covered. So, let's get started!

Essential Tips For Buying Baby Clothes

When it comes to buying baby clothes, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind. 

1.    It's essential to remember that babies grow incredibly fast, so it's always a good idea to opt for a larger size if you're in doubt. 

2.    The clothes you buy should be soft, comfortable, and easy to take care of. 

3.    Another factor to consider is the weather - choosing clothing appropriate for the season is essential. Keeping your baby cool and choosing moisture-wicking fabric like bamboo will keep your baby dry and happy in summer. Adversely, layering up, adding a beanie, socks, and mittens, as well as using blankets, is vital for keeping bub warm and snuggly in the winter.

4.    When selecting clothes, it's crucial to keep them simple and avoid any unnecessary features that could be a hazard to newborns. So, while they might look super cute in a lion outfit, it’s best to keep it simple!

5.    Choose clothes that are easy to put on and take off to make your job easier. Stretchy jumpsuits with a zip and a neckline that allows you to slip it on over your baby’s head are ideal for quickly changing clothes or nappies when needed.

6.    And remember, there is no need to feel obliged to stick to gender stereotypes regarding colours. There is so much beautiful gender-neutral baby clothing to choose from; just select the most practical pieces - they will grow out of everything in a flash anyway!

Fabric

Choosing the right fabric for baby clothing is crucial. Babies have delicate skin that can be easily irritated, so it's important to select materials that are soft and gentle on their skin. Below is a list of the best types of fabric to choose from for your baby.

1.    Cotton is popular for baby clothes due to its softness, breathability, and absorbency. It is also gentle and ideal for sensitive skin. Organic cotton, grown and processed without chemicals, is the best choice for babies as it eliminates exposure to harsh chemicals.

2.    Bamboo fabric is soft, breathable, hypo-allergenic, and thermal regulating, making it ideal for delicate baby skin. It is also moisture-wicking, which

3.    Fleece is a popular and durable fabric for cold-weather clothing and blankets. It is moisture-wicking, soft, breathable, and holds heat well. Fleece is easy to wash and quick to dry, but it's not suitable for warmer climates.

4.    Jersey knit is a great fabric choice for baby clothes. It's stretchy, soft, and breathable, making it perfect for your baby’s constant body movement, and the flexible material will accommodate growth spurts.

5.    Linen is an overlooked fabric for baby clothes. It's more breathable than cotton and regulates temperature well, keeping your baby cool in hot weather. Thin linen fabric used in clothes is soft enough for a baby's skin and absorbs moisture well, keeping your baby drier for longer.

Fabrics to Avoid

You should avoid synthetic fabrics. These fabrics can trap heat and moisture, causing discomfort and irritation. 

It's also important to avoid fabrics that are too thick or heavy, as they can cause overheating. Wool is another fabric to avoid, as its rough texture can cause skin irritation.

Finally, when shopping for baby clothes, it’s essential to read the labels and check for any chemicals or synthetic materials that could cause irritation or allergies.

What Clothing Should I Buy For My Newborn?

As a new parent, figuring out what clothes to buy for your newborn can be overwhelming. It's important to remember that babies grow quickly, so take your time with buying too many clothes in one size. As a general rule, the following should be enough to see you through for a newborn:

• 6x singlets
• 6x jumpsuits
• 2x jumpsuits for nightwear
• 2x sleeping bags
• 3x tops
• 2x jumpers
• 3x beanies
• A hat
• A few pairs of socks 

Remember, the newborn phase goes quite quickly, so you don’t want to buy too much at this stage because continuous growth spurts mean you’ll need to buy bigger sizes constantly. Also, don't forget to stock up on cotton blankets and muslin wraps to keep your baby warm and comfortable.

Interpreting Baby Clothing Sizes 

Interpreting baby sizes can be confusing, especially for first-time parents. Sizes for baby clothes are typically based on the baby's age in months, with the most common sizes being newborn, 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-9 months, 9-12 months, and 12-18 months. 

However, babies come in different shapes and sizes, so it's always best to check the specific measurements for each garment before making a purchase, especially online. Also, remember that some brands may run small or large, so it's a good idea to try different sizes and see what fits best for your little one. You can check out our size guide for different brands we stock to ensure you find the right size for your child.

Below is a general guide to baby clothing sizes:

Size 00000

Size 00000 is the tiniest available and is intended for premature or very small babies weighing less than 2kg and measuring under 55cm in length. You probably won’t need to worry about buying clothes this size unless your baby is born prematurely.

Size 0000

This is the size that you will expect your new baby to fit into (unless you have been told they will be bigger or smaller), and new parents tend to go overboard with it because all the cute outfits are too tempting! But you should avoid buying too much size 0000 clothing before your baby's arrival, as they may end up being too small if your baby is bigger than expected. Additionally, even if your baby is born at a healthy weight of around 3 kg, they will soon outgrow this size within a few months. Instead, buy a few essential items such as singlets and grow suits. 

Size 000

Size 000 is typically recommended for babies up to 3 months old. However, it's important to consider the baby's genetic factors, like height, as this might affect how long your child will fit into this size. Size 000 is designed to fit babies up to 6kg in weight and up to 62cm in length.

Size 00

Size 00 is suitable for babies between 3-6 months old, weighing up to 8 kg and measuring 68 cm. At this size, there is a broader range of styles, colours, and designs to choose from, which can be exciting for new parents. Typically, babies in this size range from 3 to 6 months old, with a weight limit of up to 8kg and a length of 68cm. It's important to remember that every baby grows at their own pace, so some may move on to the next size sooner or later than others. 

Size 0

This size is designed to fit babies between 6 and 12 months old, who typically weigh up to 10 kg and measure up to 76 cm in length. What's great about this size is that it's generally fairly standard across different brands and retailers, making it easier for parents to find various clothing options in this size range. As always, it's a good idea to have a mix of staple items and fun outfits in your baby's wardrobe to ensure they are comfortable and stylish.

Size 1

Size 1 is typically the perfect fit for babies approaching their first birthday or having just celebrated it. It's designed for babies between 12 to 18 months old, with an average weight of 12 kg and a height of 84 cm. You can expect your little one to be more active and curious at this age, so choose comfortable clothes that allow for movement. 

Size 2

Size 2 is the biggest baby size available in many brands. This size is intended for babies aged between 18 and 24 months old who are in the process of transitioning into toddlers. At this stage, babies are more active and curious, so choosing clothes that will allow them to move freely and comfortably is important. Generally, babies in size 2 weigh an average of 14 kg and are around 92 cm long. 

Storing Baby Clothes

Storing baby clothes can be challenging, especially when they outgrow them quickly. It's important to store them properly to ensure they stay in good condition for your next baby or for future use by other mums. 

First, make sure the clothes are clean and dry before storing them. It's also a good idea to sort them by size and type so they're easy to find later. Use storage containers that are airtight and moisture-proof to protect the clothes from dust, mould, and mildew. Label the containers with the contents and date stored to make it easy to identify them later. 

Avoid storing clothes in areas that are exposed to extreme temperatures, such as attics or garages, as this can damage the fabric. Finally, if you're storing clothes for a long period, consider adding a moth repellent to protect them from damage.

As you embark on the journey of parenthood, choosing the right clothing for your newborn can be daunting. However, with this quick guide to buying baby clothing in Australia, you can feel more confident in your choices. From understanding baby sizes to selecting the best fabrics, you're now equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Remember, finding the perfect outfit for your little one is a joyous experience, so take your time and enjoy the process. With the right clothing, your baby will look adorable and feel comfortable and cosy. 

Discover a vast array of baby and kids designer clothes in Australia at our online store or brick-and-mortar in Brighton. Our carefully curated selection of high-quality kids' wear ensures your little one is dressed in comfort, practicality, and style. Shop today and give your child the gift of fashion-forward clothing that will impress.