We all know the trope that babies don’t come with an instruction manual, but when it comes to dressing your baby for every day around the house, there is even less information available.
So, what should a newborn wear in the house? A newborn should just wear comfortable, soft, and breathable clothing at home, such as onesies, footed sleepers, or soft cotton pants and tops.
There’s no need to overthink it, though it is important to avoid clothing with strings or loose accessories that can pose a choking hazard.
The clothing should be weather-appropriate and not too tight or loose. Additionally, depending on the temperature of the home, a lightweight blanket or swaddle may be needed to keep the baby warm and cozy.
What Is the Ideal Home Temperature For a Newborn?
The ideal temperature to keep your home at for a newborn baby is between 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22.2°C). This temperature range provides a comfortable and safe environment for a baby, helping to prevent overheating or becoming too cold.
Of course weather and other circumstances can keep us from maintaining this baseline temperature in our home so It’s important to dress your baby appropriately for the temperature, avoiding clothing that is too heavy or too light.
If your home is colder than 68°F, add layers of clothing appropriately; if it’s warmer than 72°F remove or lighten the fabrics you choose to put on baby appropriately.
What Fabrics Are Recommended for Newborn Clothing?
Speaking of fabrics, when choosing newborn clothing, it is recommended to choose soft and breathable fabrics that are gentle on a baby’s delicate skin. Cotton is one of the best options for newborn clothing as it is hypoallergenic, comfortable, and easy to care for.
Other natural fibers such as bamboo, linen, and silk are also great choices as they are soft and breathable. It’s best to avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon, which can be rough on a baby’s skin and may cause irritation.
Additionally, it’s important to wash all new clothing before putting it on your baby to remove any potential irritants or chemicals that may be present.
Conclusion: Comfort is the Name of the Game
In essence, when dressing your baby for a time at home, comfort is the goal for several reasons:
- Comfortable clothing allows the baby to move and play freely, promoting healthy physical development.
- Comfortable clothing can help regulate the baby’s body temperature, preventing overheating or becoming too cold.
- Babies have delicate skin, and uncomfortable clothing can cause irritation or rashes, leading to discomfort and fussiness.
- Dressing your baby in comfortable clothing can help them relax and feel at ease, promoting healthy sleep and feeding patterns.
- Finally, dressing your baby in comfortable clothing can help reduce stress and make parenting a little easier. When your baby is comfortable, they are less likely to cry or fuss, which can help reduce your stress levels and promote a positive parent-child relationship.
I hope this helps you feel more comfortable about dressing your newborn!