What you'll need for your baby

Baby clothes

Babies grow very quickly. All you need for the first few weeks are enough clothes to make sure your baby will be warm and clean.

You'll probably need:

• six stretch suits (all-in-ones) for both day and night, or four stretch suits and two nightdresses (nighties) for the night – use socks or bootees with the nightie if it's cold
• two cardigans, wool or cotton rather than nylon, and light rather than heavy – several light layers of clothing are best for keeping your baby warm
• four vests
• a shawl or blanket to wrap your baby in
• a wool or cotton hat, mittens, and socks or bootees for going out if the weather is cold – it's better to choose close-knitted patterns rather than those with a loose knit, so your baby's fingers and toes won't get caught
• a sun hat for going out if it's hot or the sun is bright

Washing your baby's clothes

There's no evidence that using washing powders with enzymes (bio powders) or fabric conditioners will irritate your baby's skin.