How many baby clothes to buy before birth

Baby clothes are irresistible, but buying too many in small sizes is one of the most common new-parent overshoots. Newborns grow astonishingly fast — some skip the newborn size entirely and jump straight to 0–3 months. A practical starter wardrobe: 4–6 onesies, 4–6 sleepers or footie pajamas, 2–3 pairs of pants, a few hats, and socks — in both newborn and 0–3 month sizes.

Prioritize easy-access outfits: snaps at the crotch and neck openings that stretch are far more practical at 3am than pull-over styles. Avoid buying ahead for size 6–12 months until you have a sense of your baby's growth rate. Accept all hand-me-downs gratefully — they're often barely worn.