Layette
Having a new baby comes with the deepest kind of joy and the most challenging of responsibilities and commitment. Parents go through a mixture of several emotions: pride, bliss, confusion, panic, and worry, among others. Much of the emotional struggles are due to the lack of understanding and the fear of not doing things right for the baby. But as it is, parenting is a constant learning experience -- but one that we all try so hard to “ace” in.
A layette helps ease the complexity of parenting. Since all first-time parents are clueless as to what baby essentials to get, the layette serves to take away most of the burden. Layette is defined as a kit which comes with a baby’s complete outfit and accessories.
Newborn babies, as well as the very young ones, do not really need a lot of stuff. However, whether the baby is your first or sixth, preparing a newborn layette for him is mighty essential.
When the baby is born, it is a good idea to have everything ready before the baby goes home from the hospital. Going on quick errands to buy those little necessities after the baby has arrived will only add up to your emotional issues. Moreover, since you are constrained for time, you are most likely going to end up with things that you either do not exactly need, or are in possession of already. There’s also that chance that you will probably miss out the things that you are supposed to buy in the first place. Thus, preparation is very important to start on the tasks as smooth as possible.
Preparing your baby layette is easy, and can make parenting a whole lot more enjoyable. It is important to note however that, newborns outgrow their clothes very quickly, and some may never get to be used before they are outgrown. Generally, 0-3 month clothes are outgrown in a few weeks time. Thus, it is not ideal to invest in a lot of infant clothes within this particular size range. Spend instead on bibs, as well as comfortable sleep suits, as babies can make a lot of mess.
Other important components of a reliable layette are the drawstring sleepwear or nighties. They make changing so easy that parents will save a lot of time and effort when using these. And since babies typically hate getting in and out of clothes, parents need clothes with the easiest access.
Good baby layettes do not necessarily have to contain all-new clothes and accessories. In fact, if you have hand-me-downs from previous child or from a friend’s child, you can re-use these items after washing them. Even if you are buying new clothes for your baby, washing is still advised prior using. This is because the chemicals in the fabric might irritate the delicate skin of the baby. Mild washing soap, along with fabric softener will do.
The layette should also include burping cloths, which may also be used while feeding. Bibs may not be the most appropriate thing to use when the baby is still very young. Also, mittens are necessary to keep babies’ hands warm, and to prevent them from scratching their faces.
Organizing you baby’s very own layette shouldn’t be too hard and expensive. If you know what babies really need, you’ll be amazed that there are really just a few things making up a baby layette. And, they don’t even have to be new, and it doesn’t matter if their labels scream “expensive” or “used”. The important thing is, you make sure that they are clean and safe, and that you give all the tender, loving, and care necessary.