How Long Before Babies Grow Out Of Newborn Clothes

Preparing for your little one’s arrival is one of the most exciting times in life, and part of that excitement includes buying adorable newborn outfits. But with so many baby clothes sizes, like 0-3 months and 3-6 months, it can be a bit overwhelming. No worries though, we’ve got you covered! 

In this article, we’ll help you understand the world of newborn clothing and answer all of the most commonly asked questions so that you can make the most out of those cute outfits during the first weeks of your baby’s life.

Newborn Clothing

Newborn clothes are specifically designed for the earliest stage of life, catering to the unique needs of newborn babies. They offer a snug and cozy fit, providing comfort and security as your little one adjusts to their new environment outside the womb. Made from soft, gentle materials, newborn clothes are designed to minimize irritation on your baby’s delicate skin.

Newborn clothes typically fit babies up to a weight limit of around 8 pounds, with a general guideline of fitting babies during their first 2-4 weeks of life. However, it’s important to note that every baby is different, and factors like birth weight, rate of growth, and body proportions can influence how long your baby fits in newborn sizes.

Different Styles of Newborn Clothing

• Onesies: One-piece outfits with snaps at the bottom for easy diaper changes.
• Sleepers: Footed pajamas for head-to-toe warmth and comfort during sleep.
• Sets of clothes: Coordinated outfits that include onesies, pants, hats, and socks or booties.
• Rompers and jumpsuits: Versatile one-piece outfits covering both the top and bottom parts of your baby’s body.
• Dresses and skirts: Cute and fashionable options for baby girls, often paired with leggings or tights.
• Hats and accessories: Essential items like hats, mittens, and socks or booties to keep your baby warm.

The difference between newborn size and 0-3 months size

While newborn clothing is designed for the first 2-4 weeks (ish) of your baby’s life, 0-3 month clothes are meant to last a little longer. The general rule of thumb is that 0-3 month sizes fit babies weighing around 8-12.5 pounds. 

As you can see, there’s a bit of overlap, but 0-3 month clothes typically offer more room for growth.

How long do babies fit in newborn clothes?

Unfortunately there is no straightforward answer as it depends! Some babies outgrow their newborn clothes size within the first week or two, while others might wear them for 4-6 weeks. Factors like your baby’s birth size, rate of growth, and the specific brand of clothes can all influence how long your little one fits in newborn outfits.

What size do babies wear the longest?

As your baby grows, you’ll notice that your baby is able to wear some clothing sizes longer than others. Generally, babies wear sizes like 6-9 months, 9-12 months, and 12-18 months for a more extended period compared to newborn or 0-3 month sizes. 

After the initial rapid growth during the first few months, their rate of growth tends to slow down, allowing them to stay in these sizes for several months. However, it’s essential to remember that every baby is unique, and their growth rate may vary. 

To ensure you’re prepared for your baby’s changing needs, it’s a good idea to have a variety of clothing sizes on hand and be ready to adjust as your baby continues to grow and develop.

Things to consider when deciding on a clothing size for your baby

Your baby’s birth weight

Your baby’s birth weight and how fast your baby gains weight play crucial roles in determining the right clothing size. Every baby grows at a different rate, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your baby’s weight. On average, babies double their birth weight by the first 4-6 months of their life.

Comparing your baby’s weight to the newborn clothing weight range can give you a better idea of whether to focus on newborn sizes or opt for 0-3 month clothes. For example, if you’re expecting a bigger baby, it might be a good idea to skip the newborn phase and go straight for 0-3 month clothes.

Your baby’s length

Your baby’s length is another important factor to consider when choosing the right size of clothing. It’s not just about weight! Long pant legs or sleeves can be a safety and even suffocation risk for smaller babies, so it’s crucial to choose the right size baby clothes based on not only birth weight but length as well. 

To find clothes that fit your baby’s length, measure your baby from head to toe and check the sizing chart of the clothing brand you’re considering. By taking both dimensions into account, you’ll ensure that your baby is comfortable and safe in their clothing.

The clothing brand

To complicate matters when it comes to choosing the right size for your newborn, different clothing brands may have different sizing standards. One brand’s 0-3 month clothing might fit more like another brand’s newborn size or 3-6 month size. 

To ensure you select the right brand for your baby, it’s essential to do your research. Look at each brands sizing charts and even read reviews from other parents. By gathering recommendations and considering other parents’ experiences, you’ll find a brand that works well for your baby’s size and growth rate, ultimately making your baby’s wardrobe both comfortable and practical.

How to know when your newborn baby has grown out of newborn clothes

Here are some signs that your baby has outgrown their newborn clothes:

• Tightness around the arms, legs, and chest: If you’re struggling to fasten snaps or buttons, it’s probably time for the next size up.
• Clothes becoming too short: If your baby’s clothes are looking more like crop tops and capris, it’s time to move on to 0-3 month clothing.
• Difficulty in putting on or taking off clothes: If you’re finding it increasingly challenging to dress your baby or remove their clothing due to a snug fit, it may be an indication that they have outgrown their newborn clothes and need a larger size.
• Reduced mobility or discomfort: Pay attention to your baby’s movements and comfort level in their clothes. If your little one appears restricted in their movements or shows signs of discomfort, such as fussiness or irritation, it might be time to transition to 0-3 month clothing for a more comfortable fit.

Tips for transitioning to the next size up

• Have a few sets of clothes in the next size ready to go, so you’re not scrambling to buy new clothes when your baby suddenly outgrows their newborn outfits.
• Don’t be afraid to layer! If your baby is in between sizes, you can use long sleeves or an extra layer to make a slightly larger size work until they fully grow into it.

Making the most of newborn clothes

• Buy a mix of sizes: To be prepared for your baby’s growth, have a variety of sizes on hand, including preemie (if applicable), newborn, and 0-3 month clothes. This will ensure that you always have something that fits your baby comfortably.
• Limit the number of newborn clothes: Since newborn clothes have a relatively short shelf life, avoid overstocking. Instead, focus on a few essential items like onesies, sleepers, and easy-to-layer clothing.
• Opt for adjustable clothing: Some baby clothes come with adjustable features like fold-over cuffs, expandable shoulders, or extra snaps. These can be especially helpful in accommodating your baby’s growth and making newborn clothes last a little longer.
• Be prepared to pass along or donate outgrown clothes: Babies outgrow clothes quickly, so have a plan in place to pass along gently used clothing to friends, family members, or local charities. This will help you make room for the next size up and ensure that those adorable outfits get good use, even if it’s not by your little one.

How much newborn clothing should I buy?

The ultimate question all expecting parents ask themselves! As we’ve already discussed the ideal amount of newborn clothing can vary depending on several factors.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s wise to have at least two weeks’ worth of newborn outfits on hand. This could include 10-14 onesies or bodysuits, 7-10 sleepers or footed pajamas, 3-5 pants, and 5-7 pairs of socks or booties. You’ll also want a few hats, mittens, and soft swaddles for added warmth and comfort. 

However, it’s important to find a balance between having enough newborn clothes, 0-3 months, and 3-6 month clothing. This ensures you always have clothing on hand that fits your little one based on their birth weight and how quickly they grow. If you know you’re expecting a bigger baby opt for more 0-3 or 3-6 month outfits, where as if you’re expecting a smaller baby you may want to have some preemie sizes on hand.

As a helpful hint, as new parents, it’s a great idea to ask for various sizes of clothing for the first year at your baby shower!

Conclusion

At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for how long babies will fit in newborn clothes. As new parents, you’ll quickly learn that babies grow at their own unique pace. 

Remember, it’s always a good idea to have a variety of baby clothing sizes on hand, from newborn to 0-3 months and beyond. And don’t forget to enjoy those sleepless nights and outfit changes, because your little one will be celebrating their second birthday before you know it!

As you embark on this exciting journey, remember to trust your instincts and use this blog post as a general reference. Embrace the adventure of parenthood, and enjoy dressing your baby in those adorable newborn outfits while you can. With a little preparation and knowledge, you’ll navigate the world of newborn baby clothes like a pro!

Looking for more tips for your little one? Head over to our Ages and Phases Section to see more topics.

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