Baby Essentials & Apparel Guide
Getting everything ready for when a baby arrives shouldn't feel overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover everything you will need for when your little bundle of joy arrives, ranging from nursery necessities and baby's first outfit, all the way to car seats, strollers, baby gates and everything in between.
Functional & Playful
Baby Travel Essentials
Having the right travel essentials for your baby can ensure you and your little one are ready to take on unlimited new adventures together.
Strollers & Travel Systems
Strollers and travel systems provide a safe and convenient way to transport your baby while on-the-go. Having a stroller system or wagon is also a great way to help make sure everyone is comfortable.
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Travel Systems
Includes a stroller, an infant car seat and a car seat base. These are great for transitioning from birth through toddlerhood.
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Standard Strollers
Built with a sturdy frame, an adjustable canopy for sun protection and ample storage, these strollers are designed with versatility and practicality in mind.
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Lightweight Strollers
Also referred to as umbrella strollers, these are a great option when traveling or running errands, as they fold up quickly.
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Jogger Strollers
Provide a safe, comfortable way for parents to include their baby in their active lifestyle. Large, air-filled tires and specialized features make it possible to jog on various terrains.
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Double Strollers
Two children can ride together, either side-by-side or in a front-and-back arrangement. These are great for family outings or other adventures.
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Wagons
Perfect for trips to the park and other outdoor adventures. They often have additional features, like built-in storage, cup holders or removable canopies.
Car Seats
It’s recommended that babies sit rear-facing in a vehicle for as long as they can, or until they reach the height or weight limits of each manufacturer. It’s important to consider the recommended size range and how a car seat integrates with other essentials, such as strollers or other baby items.
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Infant
Rear-facing and designed to be portable. A detachable base makes it easy to move from car to stroller.
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Convertible
A 2-in-1 design accommodates infants and toddlers by transitioning from a rear-facing position to a forward-facing one.
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All-in-one
Complete system with rear-facing, forward-facing and booster seat configurations to ensure a secure fit as your child grows.
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High Back Booster
Offers the same benefits of a backless booster, but with a backrest for extra neck and head support.
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Backless Booster
Elevates the child above the seat to allow the seat belt to fit properly across their lap and shoulder.
Baby Carriers
Baby carriers offer moms and dads hands-free convenience without sacrificing the comfort and closeness of holding their baby.
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Sling & Wrap Carriers
Wraps around the body and connects with either a knot or rings to hold securely. Great adjustable option that folds down easily when not in use.
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Convertible Carriers
Made with comfort and versatility in mind, these carriers can be worn in a variety of positions, and can be adjusted to ensure a safe and comfortable experience as your baby grows.
Active Baby Gear
As your baby becomes mobile, it gets harder to keep an eye on them. Having the right baby gear like bouncers, play yards and swings provide peace of mind by keeping your baby safe and contained.
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Play Yards
Also referred to as playpens, these are great to give young kids an enclosed space for them to either play or sleep.
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Rockers
Comfortable and secure seats designed for little ones who cannot sit up on their own. Their back-and-forth rocking motion is soothing for babies, as it mimics the womb.
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Bouncers
A slightly reclined seat on a wire frame that gently bounces up and down with your baby's movements. They often include a toy bar to keep your baby occupied.
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Baby Play Mats & Gyms
Provide a soft supportive surface for babies. Integrated toys often feature a variety of colors, shapes, textures and patterns to help with physical, cognitive and sensory development.
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Swings
Provide a safe and comfortable space for your baby. Its constant motion provides soothing stimulation for your little one, keeping them entertained so you can get things done.
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Activity Centers
Great to help develop a baby's curiosity as they are surrounded with toys to help explore different textures, sights and sounds.
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Baby Jumpers
Designed for babies who can hold their head up, jumpers provide entertainment and exercise for your little one, while also keeping them safely contained.
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Walkers
Made in push-behind and suspended-seat varieties, walkers let babies explore safely using their feet.
Nursery Necessities
A nursery isn't just for sleeping. It's a multifunctional space that serves as a hub for daily routines such as feeding, diaper changes and playtime. Your baby's room should be carefully organized and include essentials that make it a safe, comfortable and convenient environment.
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Bassinet
A basket-like bed designed to allow your infant to sleep along your bedside for the first few months after birth.
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Crib
An enclosed bed that provides more room for your baby to move as they sleep, while still keeping them safe.
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Convertible Crib
Crib with enclosed bed that has the ability to fold or flip down into a traditional bed without the enclosure to help transition from a crib to bed.
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Dresser
A practical and essential piece of furniture for any baby’s room, they help keep clothes, diapers, blankets and other essentials organized and close at hand.
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Changing Table
You'll want a safe and secure changing space that elevates the child and keeps them comfortable when changing a diaper or getting them dressed.
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Glider Chair
A chair that moves forward and back smoothly on a fixed track. Gliders provide a cozy place for you and your baby to rest.
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Rocking Chair
A gentle rocking motion can help calm infants. Look for a chair that is both sturdy and comfortable.
Baby Feeding
Feeding your baby is a very special time for you to hold your baby close and bond with them. When feeding your baby from a bottle, there are many different considerations to think of like bottle type and material, the shape of the bottle. When feeding your child, there are many things to help keep both baby and mom comfy.
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Bottles & Feeding
All parents want to provide the best start for their children, and feeding time plays a key role in this. From bottles and pacifiers, to teethers and tableware, Exdup offers a comprehensive range of products designed to make feeding time a breeze.
BOTTLES
Made from silicone or glass, baby bottles come in a variety of types. Each type offers different advantages, like reducing colic symptoms or easy cleaning.
NIPPLES
Available in different options such as bottle type, material, & shape. The right nipple for your baby depends on their developmental stage and feeding preferences.
BOTTLE WARMERS
Designed to efficiently and safely heat bottles of milk or formula to the ideal drinking temperature for your baby.
PACIFIERS
Made from soft, flexible materials like silicone, pacifiers provide comfort for babies and help them self-soothe.
TEETHERS
Used to provide relief for infants that are experiencing pain and discomfort during the teething process. Teethers are usually made from soft, flexible materials like silicone.
BIBS
Soft, absorbent accessories worn around the neck that protect a baby's clothing from spills and messes during feeding.
BABY TABLEWARE
Plates, bowls, cups and utensils made specifically for babies that are learning to self-feed. Baby tableware is made from durable and safe materials, and are often decorated with cute and colorful characters of motifs.
Feeding Chairs
When your child is old enough to eat solid foods, they will need a place to sit during feeding times. Feeding chairs offer a secure seat for your little one. With a variety of designs to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect feeding chair to match your family's lifestyle.
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Standard High Chairs
A stand-alone chair that elevates the child to the height of the table. Typically includes straps over the shoulder to secure your child into the chair while they eat or play.
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Hook-on Seats
A child seat and tray that can be secured to the side of any table. These space-saving seats are great for bringing to restaurants, or mealtimes while visiting friends and family.
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Booster Seats
Straps to a chair or sits on top of existing seats to help elevate your baby to the correct table height.
Things to Consider
There are many things to think about when picking the right high chair for your baby. You'll need to consider things like safety, portability and ease of use. Here are some important features to remember when buying a high chair.
TRAYS
Removable trays make cleanup a breeze. Some trays are dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning them even easier.
ADJUSTABLE SEATS
High chairs with adjustable seats are a great idea, because they continue to provide safe and comfortable seating as your baby grows.
FIVE-POINT HARNESS
Safety is always a consideration when picking the right baby products and chairs that have a five-point harness helps to comfortably secure your baby into the chair.
COMFORT
Meal time for little ones can take some time as they play with and discover new foods. You'll want to find a chair your baby can comfortably sit in for longer periods of time.
PORTABILITY
You’ll not only want to consider how you will be using this chair, but also where you plan to and use it. If you eat out a bit or travel, a more portable option will allow flexibility to take on the go.
Diapering
A baby's skin is sensitive, so regular diaper changes are important to keep their skin clean and dry. Having the right diapers and diaper accessories will help keep your little one healthy and happy every day.
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Diaper Carriers
Carry not only everything you need to change a diaper, but ensure you have space for everything like clothes, snacks, sunscreen and lotions in one easy, convenient place for on-the-go days.
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Diaper Bags
From diapers and wipes to toys and drinks, the diaper bag keeps the essentials handy and ready to use wherever you go. Find one with enough storage and pockets for all your needs.
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Diaper Totes
Similar to a traditional diaper bag, but with a spacious interior and fewer compartments. Their open design makes it easy to access item quickly.
Diaper Accessories
When diapering your baby at home, these accessories help make diaper changes easy and convenient.
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Diaper Pails & Refills
Trash cans that are designed for dirty diaper disposal. They use specialty bags and are sealed to prevent unpleasant odors from escaping.
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Diaper Organizers
Keep all your diapers, wipes, creams, lotions and powders organized and at hand.
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Diaper Wipes & Warmers
Disposable diaper wipes are a convenient way to keep your baby clean. Having a diaper wipe warmer makes that experience as comfortable as possible for your little one.
Types of Diapers
Diapers come in a range of styles, each designed with a specific age, activity or lifestyle in mind.
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Cloth
Reusable cloth diapers have a higher up-front cost, but can save money in the long run. They can be passed down to younger siblings, and they produce less waste than disposable diapers.
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Disposable
Single-use disposable diapers are a clean, comfortable and convenient diapering solution. They are especially handy for on-the-go diaper changes.
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Swim
Swim diapers are perfect for a day by the pool or on the beach. They help keep solids contained, while not soaking up the water for a wet, heavy and uncomfortable diaper.
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Training Pants
Designed to aid in potty training, they provide extra absorbency like a diaper, but pull on and off easily, like a pair of underwear.
Bed & Bath
A solid bed and bath routine is great for your little one. It helps create a familiar nightly schedule, and ensures they are well cared-for.
Bedding
The bedding you choose should provide a warm, cozy and safe sleeping environment for your baby. You will want to find materials that combine the right amount of warmth and breathability with the right level of comfort and protection from spills and messes.
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Receiving Blankets
A versatile, lightweight blanket that can be used for a variety of purposes. They are often used to provide warmth, as a cover-up during feeding, or for swaddling.
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Crib Blankets
Can be used by babies older than 12 months for sleeping. Infants and younger babies can use crib blankets for tummy time, but their cribs should be free from any blankets or loose items.
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Swaddle Blankets
A very thin blanket that is used to wrap your baby snugly and securely. This mimics conditions in the womb, which helps to calm your baby and promotes sleep.
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Wearable Blankets
Provide warmth, comfort and freedom of movement to babies when they are too young for crib blankets.
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Swaddle Wraps
Specifically designed to wrap tightly around your baby. Swaddle wraps are held securely in place with hook-and-loop closures.
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Crib Bedding Sets
Bedding sets offer a cute and coordinated look for your baby's crib. They often include a quilt or duvet cover, fitted sheets, blankets and pillow cases.
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Fitted Crib Sheets
Cribs should have minimal sheets and often just a fitted sheet will do. These are made of soft, gentle fabrics that are great for a baby's delicate skin.
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Mattress Pads
A mattress pad not only adds a bit more comfort and cushioning, but adds another removable layer to help keep the mattress clean.
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Waterproof Pads
Accidents happen. You'll want to consider a waterproof mattress pad to make cleanup of those late night messes as easy as possible.
Bathroom & Bath Time
Keeping your baby clean is important for your little one. Nightly baths are a great way to establish a routine, and can also help promote relaxation to aid in better sleep patterns.
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Bath Tubs
Specially designed to provide a safe, comfortable and convenient bathing experience during your baby's first 6-9 months of life.
Bath Seats
If bathing your child in a tub, having a bath seat is a great way to keep them contained safely while they play and splash around during bath time.
Washcloths & Towels
Your baby's skin is sensitive. Be sure to have washcloths and towels that are made from soft, gentle fabrics like cotton to prevent your baby's skin from becoming dry or irritated at bath time.
Bath Robes
Made from the same material as towels, bath robes keep your little one comfy and dry between bath time and pajama time.
Bath Toys
Bath time is a time for learning and playing with a range of toys. This helps your baby increase their fine motor skills and aid in their development.
Step Stools
A step stool in the bathroom helps elevate the child to the sink height so they can practice handwashing and toothbrushing on their own.
Potty Seat Toilets
A small chair with a removable basin that is used when training your child to go potty on their own.
Health & Safety
Demonstrating good hygiene and providing a safe living environment are key elements to raising a healthy baby. Having the right health and safety products on hand will help keep your child happy and well.
Health Essentials
To help keep your baby healthy and cared for, you'll need the following items on hand.
GROOMING KIT
Great to have on hand at home but also make traveling easy as they often include scissors, toothbrush, hairbrush or comb, emery boards and other items.
THERMOMETER
There are several types of thermometers in the market, including ear, forehead and rectal. Consider factors such as accuracy, convenience and your child’s age.
NASAL ASPIRATOR
Breathing or eating can become difficult if a baby has nasal congestion from a cold or allergies. A nasal aspirator helps open their airways.
FIRST AID KIT
As your baby explores their surroundings, scrapes and minor cuts are inevitable. First aid kits contain items that are essential to handling minor injuries.
SOUND & LIGHT MACHINE
Can provide a night-light and white noise or music at bedtime, or can stimulate the mind during play time by casting shapes and colors on the wall.
Making a Safe Place for a Baby
Baby-proofing your home provides you with peace of mind, while allowing your young child to safely explore and learn about their living space. Here are a few of the basics you'll want to include on your next shopping list:
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Outlet Covers & Plugs
Babies imitate what they see, and when they see Mom or Dad plug something into an outlet, they may try to do the same. Outlet covers and plugs help keep babies safe around outlets.
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Edge & Corner Guards
Sharp corners and edges can be an accident waiting to happen for young children. Edge and corner guards help childproof your furniture, counters and other surfaces.
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Cabinet Locks and Levers
Kitchen cabinets and drawers may be filled with unsafe objects that you'll want to keep away from your baby. Cabinet locks and levers ensure these items stay safely out of your child's reach.
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Baby Gates
Once your baby is mobile, they can get themselves into unsafe situations. Keep them contained to an area, or block off certain areas with the help of a baby gate.
Baby Monitors
Baby monitors are a great way to keep eyes and ears on your little one from afar. A range of features and capabilities means you’re sure to find one that best meets your needs.
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DUAL SCREEN
Also known as split-screen baby monitors, they allow parents to monitor the activities in two rooms simultaneously.
AUDIO ONLY
Basic monitoring devices that allow you to hear what is happening in your baby’s nursery from any room in the house.
REMOTE ACCESS
These monitors use an app to pair the camera to your smartphone or mobile device, allowing you to check up on your little one from anywhere you have a WiFi or cellular connection.
HEALTH MONITOR
A wearable device for babies that provides live monitoring of vital signs like movement, heart rate, temperature and breathing.
Baby Clothes
Shopping for your little one's arrival is an extremely fun and exciting time, but nothing is more fun than shopping for all the cute baby clothes they will need.
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Layette
A layette is a baby’s first set of clothes and other essentials. It usually includes items that are needed for the baby’s comfort and care in the first few weeks and months of life.
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
Bodysuits
Pants
Pajamas
Socks
Hats
Mittens
Receiving Blanket
Bibs
Burp Cloths
Wash Cloths
TOILETRIES
Shampoo
Lotion
Baby Wash
Baby Powder
Baby Oil
Diaper Cream
Cotton Swabs
One-Piece Baby Outfits
A one-piece outfit for babies is a great choice that allows for freedom of movement and encourages gross motor skill development. Babies are able to kick, crawl and explore freely which helps develop strength, coordination and balance.
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Bodysuits
A legless, one-piece garment worn as a base layer. Snap closures provide easy access for diaper changing.
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Jumpsuits
Similar to a bodysuit, but jumpsuits can be worn by themselves. In summertime, these are called sunsuits.
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Dresses
Typically made of soft, lightweight fabrics, dresses are suitable for both formal functions or casual everyday wear. They also make a great costume for your little princess.
Tops
Tops are a great way to begin developing your little one's style. You'll want fabrics that are soft, yet thick enough to keep warm. Tops add extra cuteness to the many new photos you and others will be taking.
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T-shirts
Baby shirts may have additional features like an envelope neckline or snap closures for easy dressing.
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Polo Shirts
Collared shirt with a buttoned placket to give a more stylish look with short or long-sleeved options.
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Henley Shirts
Button placket at the neckline, similar to a polo, but without a collar for a more casual look.
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Button-down Shirts
A pointed collar and buttoned front closure and are versatile enough to be worn when dressed up or down.
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Sweatshirts
Keeping warm at any age is very important, especially for babies. Sweatshirts are great to add a layer.
Important Features for Baby Tops
It is not unusual for a baby to go through several changes of clothes in a day. Having tops with easy on-and-off features can make changing time quick and easy.
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Envelope Neckline
Opens up fully, allowing for easy dressing and undressing. Overlapping fabric resembles the flaps of an envelope.
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Snap Shoulder
Snap closures near the shoulder help open up the neckline wide enough to fit the baby's head through.
Bottoms
A staple in every baby's wardrobe, bottoms are designed to keep your little one comfortable and irresistibly cute! Vibrant colors, playful patterns and breathable fabrics ensure your baby looks good and feels good. Bottoms often have practical features like elastic waistbands and reinforced knees that are ideal for active babies who like to crawl and explore.
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Leggings
Soft, stretchy pants that are designed for infants and are great for protecting your baby's knees when they are learning to crawl.
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Jogger Pants
Made from soft fabrics like cotton, jersey knit or fleece with an elastic waistband for a more relaxed fit.
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Bloomers
Designed to be worn over and help conceal a baby's diaper, they often have a ruffled hemline and elastic edges on the legs.
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Bodysuit Dresses
Provides the convenience of a bodysuit with the style of a dress to create a cute and practical garment for infants.
Sleepwear for Babies
Soft and breathable fabrics like cotton and fleece are all great for keeping your baby comfortable while sleeping. To help maximize comfort, look for pajamas with flat seams or tagless labels as well as stretchy fabrics to help allow for freedom of movement.
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Sleep & Plays
Also known as footed sleepers or one-piece pajamas, these are designed for babies to wear in bed or during playtime.
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PJ Sets
Include coordinating top and bottom made of soft and breathable material and come in a wide range of options including t-shirts or henleys.
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Sleep Gowns
Typically have an envelope neckline or stretchy neck and a long body with elasticized bottoms or drawstring enclosure.
Baby Accessories
Having individual style can start at any age. Baby accessories are a great way to add a bit of flair as well as adding function to your baby's look.
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Hats
Ranges from knit hats that give warmth all the way to hats that keep the sun out of your baby's eyes.
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Socks & Booties
Keep feet warm, cozy and protected. Booties are great because they include non-slip soles or grippers on the bottom.
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Mittens
Babies can have a hard time regulating heat. Mittens also help prevent your baby from accidentally sctratching themselves.
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Sunglasses
Protect your baby's eyes from the harmful ultraviolet rays year-round and not just during the summer months.
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Hair Accessories
From headbands and bows to clips and ribbons, hair accessories help keep hair out of the eyes and offer a cute way to cordinate an outfit.
Finding the Right Size
Finding the proper clothing sizes for children can be tricky. Each child grows at their own pace, and sizes can vary between brands. Here are some tips to help you choose the right fit
AGE-BASED SIZING
Most baby and toddler clothing brands use age-based sizing. Baby sizes are typically shown as ranges like 0-3 months or 6-12 months. Toddler sizes try to match the child's age in years and are labeled as 2T, 3T, and 4T, with “T” meaning toddler.
TRANSITIONING FROM BABY TO TODDLER CLOTHES
When transitioning from baby to toddler sizes (24 months - 2T), the key difference is garment length and width. Baby sizes will be wider and shorter cut, while toddler garments will be slimmer and longer in length.
KEEP GROWTH IN MIND
Kids grow up quickly, so it's smart to buy clothing slightly larger than what your child needs.
Baby Sizing Chart
Many brands provide size charts that help you choose the right size based on your child's height and weight. Having these measurements handy makes choosing the right size easier. Be sure to review the sizing charts for each brand, as sizing may vary by manufacturer.
Preemie
Newborn
3 Months
6 Months
9 Months
12 Months
18 Months
24 Months
Things To Consider for Baby Clothes
Cuteness plays a big part in picking out your baby clothes, but it shouldn't be the only factor. You'll want to consider these other important characteristics when picking out clothes for your baby to wear.
SOFTNESS
Softer fabrics help to minimize friction and help keep your baby's delicate skin from rash or irritation.
BREATHABILITY
Small babies have a harder time regulating their temperature, so you'll want clothes made from fabrics that retain heat, but are still breathable.
DURABILITY
Life with a baby is full of spills and other messes. Make sure their clothes can handle the everyday wear and tear.
HYPOALLERGENIC
Your baby's sensitive skin may react to certain fabrics. Choosing fabrics that are hypoallergenic helps prevent irritation.
SAFETY
Avoid cords and drawstrings. Features like hook-and-loop or snap closures are great alternatives.
EASE OF CARE
Some outfits may require a bit more care when cleaning, if they have lace or other delicate enhancements.
CURRENT SEASON
Be sure to match the clothing with the current weather. As kids get older, you will have separate summer and winter clothes.
MOBILITY OF BABY
As your little one begins to move more, you'll want stretchy fabrics that allow for free range of movement.
