Babies need more clothes in the initial months as they frequently soil them. Shopping for baby clothes is fun, with the wide variety of cute baby clothes available. Parents should not be carried away while shopping for baby clothes as babies outgrow them quickly. What are the basic clothes and items that babies need in the initial months, read on to know.

As you know, babies grow very fast in the first few months so you should shop sensibly and not buy too many clothes for the first month itself. But still you need enough spares, because your new baby is far from being toilet-trained and will spoil any number of clothes in a day.

What you must keep in mind is to buy soft, clean and new clothing for the first couple of months as your babies skin is extremely sensitive. After a while, you may start using the hand-me-downs of older children. But avoid using any synthetic materials for at least a few years and check the elastics of all pieces of clothing to ensure that they are not too tight.

Next on the list come the nappies. There are many disposable ones available in the market today. These are definitely more convenient but expensive. In the case of washable ones (the towelling ones are the best), the initial expense will work out more as you will need at least 30 to start with. Your baby will wet his nappy umpteen times a day, and will need a number of spares as the previous ones go for wash. You will also need nappy liners and pins as well as a couple of waterproof pants. Do not forget to keep a stock of sterilizing powder or liquid.

Now let us make a checklist of all the toiletries and accessories you will need for your baby.
 

Clothes

1. 5 stretch suits, with buttons on the legs to facilitate changing the nappies.
2. 5 sets of nightclothes.
3. 5 vests.
4. 4 pairs of socks or baby booties.
5. 8 bibs.
6. A couple of bonnets.
7. A soft shawl or blanket.
8. A couple of mittens (if you are in a cold country).
9. 2 woolens, cardigans or sweaters for winter.

Diapers and accessories

1. Plenty of nappies - washable or disposable.
2. A roll of cotton wool.
3. A baby lotion - to help you clean him up, especially when you are out visiting.
4. A nappy rash cream. Petroleum jelly, zinc or castor oil cream will do.

Bathing and grooming accessories

1. Baby soap or liquid.
2. A sponge.
3. A couple of soft towels or fresh, clean and soft face cloths.
4. A set of three baby toothbrushes, to cover the first six months.
5. A gentle tongue cleaner.
6. A soft hair brush. It should be extremely gentle on the scalp.
7. A baby nail-cutter with blunt ends.
8. Lots of tender loving care.

Now you are all set for your baby.