How many baby clothes do you really need?

The NHS newborn checklist

• 6 all-in-one stretch suits (sleepsuits), for day and night
• 6 vests
• 2 light cardigans, in wool or cotton rather than nylon
• A shawl or blanket to wrap your baby in
• For cold weather: a wool or cotton hat, mittens, and socks or bootees
• For hot or bright weather: a sun hat

That really is it for the first few weeks. Six of the everyday basics gives you enough to get through the inevitable leaks and changes while one load is in the wash.

What to look for

• Easy fastenings: poppers down the front or legs make night-time changes quicker than buttons.
• Envelope necks: vests with overlapping shoulders can be pulled down over the body after a messy nappy, rather than over the head.
• Soft, breathable fabrics: cotton is comfortable next to the skin and easy to wash.
• Close-knit hats, mittens and bootees: the NHS points out that loose knits can catch tiny fingers and toes.

What you can skip at first

Outfits that look lovely in the shop but need lots of fiddling (tiny buttons, tights, stiff collars) tend to stay in the drawer in the early weeks. A few nice outfits for visits are plenty. Hats aren't needed indoors, so one or two for trips out is enough.

Steering the gifts

A survey of 1,000 UK mothers for Marks & Spencer found that around three-quarters of a baby's clothes are bought as gifts, so it's worth waiting before you buy much yourself. If people ask what you'd like:

• Suggest the next size up, such as 3 to 6 months, rather than newborn.
• Ask for the practical basics if those are what you need.
• Keep gift receipts so you can swap sizes or duplicates.

Questions parents ask

How many sleepsuits does a newborn need?

The NHS suggests six all-in-one stretch suits for day and night, along with six vests.

Does a newborn need to wear a hat indoors?

No. Hats are for keeping warm outside. Take them off indoors and in a warm car, bus or train so your baby doesn't overheat.

Can I use biological washing powder for baby clothes?

The NHS says there is no evidence that biological washing powders or fabric conditioners irritate babies' skin.