Among all the questions future parents ask themselves when preparing for the arrival of their baby, the layette often comes up. And within this layette, the bodysuit holds a special place. As the first garment worn directly against the skin, it is also the one that baby will need in the greatest quantity. But how many bodysuits should you plan for exactly? Here are the tips generally recommended by childcare professionals, to approach the first few weeks with peace of mind.
The bodysuit, a central piece of baby's layette from birth
Before talking about quantity, a useful reminder: the bodysuit is baby's underwear. It is worn under everything else: baby pajamas, pants, dress... It can even be worn alone when it's hot. It accompanies baby from morning to night, and even during the night.
It is also the garment that gets dirty the fastest: regurgitations, diaper changes, meals... Unexpected events are numerous in a newborn's day. It is therefore important to have enough so as not to run out.
How many bodysuits to plan for? Childcare professionals' recommendation
The rule generally accepted by early childhood professionals is simple: plan for 6 to 8 bodysuits for birth. This should be enough to last a week without running out between two laundry days.
The first weeks: Size 1 month bodysuit
Newborns grow very quickly. There's no need to overload the layette with newborn size. Baby can outgrow it in the first few weeks. 6 bodysuits in size 1 month are a good starting point, complemented by a few pieces in size 3 months to anticipate.
From 1 to 3 months
This is often the period when baby grows the fastest. Plan for 6 to 7 bodysuits in size 3 months, mixing long sleeves and short sleeves depending on the season.
From 3 to 6 months and beyond
From 3 months onwards, the frequency of diaper changes decreases slightly, and baby is a little less prone to regurgitations. 6 bodysuits per size remain a good base. The quantity can be adjusted according to your washing habits.
Long sleeves or short sleeves: how to distribute?
The distribution depends primarily on baby's birth season:
- If baby is born in autumn or winter, opt for a majority of long-sleeved bodysuits (3 to 4). You can supplement with 2 short-sleeved bodysuits for warm moments at home.
- Dressing baby in spring or summer, reverse the proportion. 3 to 4 short-sleeved bodysuits and 2 long-sleeved ones for cooler evenings or air conditioning.
Crossover opening or snap buttons at the neckline: which one to choose for the layette?
This is one of the most frequent questions from future parents. Both options have their advantages:
The crossover opening bodysuit is particularly popular for newborns. It slips on without going over the head. It is very practical in the first weeks when baby still has a fragile and undeveloped neck. It is the ideal solution for the first few months.
The snap-button bodysuit at the neckline is more suitable for slightly older babies. From 3 months, they are more toned and comfortable with classic dressing.
Our advice: plan for at least 5 crossover opening bodysuits in the birth layette. This type of fastening is simpler for the first few weeks.
Why choose organic cotton bodysuits for the layette?
The bodysuit is worn directly against baby's skin throughout the day. It is the garment for which the choice of material matters most.
A certified organic cotton baby bodysuit guarantees the absence of harmful substances and ecological dyes without allergens. It offers incomparable softness preserved wash after wash. For the most sensitive skins, undyed organic cotton versions offer the absolute guarantee of a healthy and pure material.
Discover our organic cotton baby bodysuits, available from 1 month to 24 months, with crossover or snap openings, in long sleeves and short sleeves.
The ideal birth layette in summary
To approach the first few weeks with peace of mind, here's what to remember:
- 6 to 8 bodysuits per size, to last a week between washes
- Start with 1 month and 3 month sizes, without overloading with newborn size
- Mix long sleeves and short sleeves according to the birth season
- Plan for at least 3 to 4 crossover opening bodysuits for the first few weeks
- Opt for organic cotton clothing to protect baby's sensitive skin
The perfect layette doesn't exist. Every baby is different. But with these guidelines, you will have all the keys to get off to a good start, without stress and without lacking anything.
