Image: MomJunction Design Team
Premature babies require double the attention in their day-to-day activities. You have to be careful, from ensuring that they are well fed to changing their clothes. The best preemie clothes are carefully designed to ensure a simple design, easy to change, and give a cute look for your little one. Whether it is snap-button closure or two-way zippers, we’ve got you covered. Check out this list of some tried-and-tested preemie clothes from trusted brands and add some to your cart.
Top Picks
11 Best Preemie Clothes
1. Best Machine-Washable:Burt’s Bees Baby Romper Jumpsuit
The footed jumpsuits and hats by the trusted brand Burt’s Bees will help keep your bundle of joy covered and warm. The baby-friendly jumpsuits feature reinforced snaps at the diaper line, allowing you to change the diaper without having to undress the child completely. Furthermore, the jumpsuit’s breathable, soft, and sensitive skin-friendly fabric takes special care of your baby’s skin and ensures a comfortable experience. In addition, the neckline has a lap shoulder design, making it stretchable for a comfortable fit.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- GOTS-certified organic cotton
- Durable combed fabric
- Solid minimalist design
Cons
- Size may run big
- Buttons might come undone if the child is very active
"These sleepers offer a cozy fit for my baby and the soft fabric suits her sensitive skin. Their snap closure is a bit inconvenient for quick diaper changes than zippers. However, it is a minor trade-off for the outfits' stretch and comfort."
Do remember2. Best For Diaper Changes: Gerber Baby-Girls Four Pack Sleep ‘N Play Footie
Give your preemie girl a comfortable sleep with these Sleep ‘N Play cute baby footies by the trusted brand Gerber. The 100% cotton jumpsuits are designed with pull-on closures and two-way zippers with safety tabs. This makes it easy for diaper changes and also keeps the baby safe from getting pinched. The pretty pull-over preemie rompers have screen-printed designs, suitable for machine wash.
Pros
- Long-sleeve design
- Features mitten cuffs
- Breathable fabric
- Footed design for good body temperature regulation
Cons
- May not be suitable for extreme cold weather
- Zippers may be a bit flimsy
"They keep my baby comfortable in this changing weather�feeling cozy without overheating. The designs and color combinations look charming and the fit is also true to size. The material isn�t stretchable, but they offer good value for everyday use."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 52,557 satisfied customers on Amazon have said good things about the product.
3. Best With Snap Closures: Little Me Baby Girls’ Footie and Hat
A pretty romper for your baby girl from Little Me comes in beautiful girly colors with a matching hat. The mommy-approved cotton bodysuit looks stylish, provides a comfortable fit, and keeps your baby warm. This baby fashion dress is designed with long sleeves and easy-to-use snap-closures from the neckline to the feet.
Pros
- Pill-resistant
- Baby-friendly tag-free design
- Ring-spun for longevity
- Soft fabric
Cons
- May not have built-in cuffs
- May be a bit large
"The delightful pattern and soft cotton material of this baby sleeper have earned it warm praises at my sister's baby shower by everyone. The sizing is a tad generous, though it doesn�t affect its overall charming appearance paired with the cute cap."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Join the 1,755 satisfied buyers on Amazon who have said the product meets their needs and expectations.
4. Best For Tumble Drying: Gerber Unisex Baby 4 Pack Sleep ‘N Play Footie
The unisex onesies by Gerber are ideal for premature babies. This mommy-approved baby outfit set has four long-sleeve footies featuring front zippers and safety tabs. This makes changing easy and keeps the baby secure. The detailing is screen-printed, and the preemie onesies are suitable for machine wash and tumble drying.
Pros
- Made of 100% pure, breathable cotton fabric
- Prevents scratches and skin irritation
- Pull-on closure for easy wearing
- Available in several designs and colors
Cons
- May run slightly large
- May stretch out over time
"I bought this set for my niece and everyone in the family loved it. It impresses in terms of material quality and comfortable fit�ideal for our active little one. The material feels soft and the thickness is perfect to prevent overheating in this warm weather."
5. Best For Summer Months: Hudson Baby Unisex Baby Preemie Bodysuits
Suitable for the summer months, these bodysuits for premature babies from Hudson Baby are trusted by moms as they are made of 100% cotton and feel tender on the baby’s sensitive skin. The long-sleeve and legless onesies are soft and comfortable with bottom snap closures for an easy diaper change. It is a set of five machine-washable suits suitable for everyday wear.
Pros
- Can be worn alone or under other garments
- Suitable for daily use
- Provides fuss-free dressing
- Envelope neckline for easy slip through
Cons
- May slightly shrink
- Sleeves may be a bit longer than expected
"Finding the right fit for my baby in these onesies by Hudson Baby was very easy and I love the variety of patterns offered. The material is also very soft and durability assures material quality."
6. Best Non-Toxic:L’ovedbaby Organic Zipper Footie
If you are looking for a one-piece suit that uses eco-friendly, azo-free dyes, the L’ovedbaby zipper footie could be a trusted choice. The mom-approved baby clothes for premature babies are crafted using 100% organic and soft, breathable cotton fabric and include a robust zipper free of lead, chrome, and nickel. Additionally, the elastic at the back of the ankles keeps the booties securely in place without rotating, making the suit functional and comfortable.
Pros
- Rubber-dotted soles for grip
- Baby-friendly and GOTS-certified cotton
- Available in various colors
- Comes with a zipper tab cover
Cons
- May not be stretchable
- May run small
"This footsie onesie looks adorable on my newborn and fits him accurately. The material feels good and the design is quite thoughtful with a bottom zipper, enabling easy diaper changes. He will soon outgrow them but I like how adorable he looks"
Point To Consider7. Best Soft-To-Touch:Hudson Baby Girl’s Cotton Gowns
These mommy-approved gown-style garments by Hudson allow your baby to wiggle and jiggle freely. Made from 100% cotton, they keep the baby cozy and comfortable during all seasons. These preemie clothing products come in a pull-on style to eliminate discomfort caused by buttons or zippers. Furthermore, the preemie gowns come in a convenient set of three to ensure you always have a backup. Each gown features a different color and print, making the set versatile, exciting, fashionable, and non-monotonous.
Pros
- Feature a cotton lining
- Suitable for everyday use
- Machine-washable
- Available in several sizes and baby-friendly patterns
Cons
- Some may find them longer than expected
- May not be stain-resistant
"These cozy baby gowns have been a staple in my baby�s nightly routine. Their breezy fit and snap-free design are a bonus for quick changes and the built-in hand cover flaps are brilliant for scratch prevention."
8. Best Cotton Material: Hudson Baby Unisex Baby Preemie Layette Set
The unisex baby layette set from Hudson Baby includes a bodysuit, side-snap shirt, cap, and pair of preemie pants. Its adaptive design and patterns ensure it suits both baby girls and boys. Each of these baby-friendly pieces is made of 100% cotton material and is gentle on the skin. The snap closure makes changing easy and keeps the child safe. These preemie onesies have cute animal prints and are suitable for all occasions. Ideal for daily wear, the clothes are machine-washable.
Pros
- Soft and comfortable
- Gentle waistband
- Foldable brim hat
- Attractive colors and print
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
- May slightly shrink
"This premie outfit has charmed me with its adorable design, particularly the delightful little fox. It is well-crafted and fits comfortably on my tiny newborn, though the hat is a bit small. The set overall is durable, holding their shape through washes."
9. Best With Shoe Design:Little Me Baby Boy’s Footie And Cap
Made from 100% combed and ring-spun cotton, the one-piece garment by Little Me is soft, comfortable, and does not restrict the child’s mobility. The footie features a thoughtful and realistic shoe design on the booties, creating the impression that the child is wearing actual shoes. It also has a safe and effective neck-to-foot zipper closure to ensure a snug and secure fit. Moreover, the suit includes a matching cap to complete the sporty look.
Pros
- Free of flame retardants
- Non-scratching label
- Long sleeves for optimal comfort
- Washing machine-friendly
Cons
- Hat may be wide for some
- May run big
"This sleeper footie set was a gift from my sister and I like how adorable it looks with the sneaker footies. The size is a bit large for my baby, but I think it will fit him in a couple more months."
10. Best Kimono-Style Romper: Asher And Olivia Two-Pack Boy Long Sleeve Bodysuit
Your adorable preemie baby boy can be comfortable in the Asher And Olivia preemie sleepers. This pack has two suits in sea blue color and comes with easy side-snap button closures. The soft premium combed cotton is delicate on the skin. Each onesie has long sleeves and no legs. This kimono-style romper protects the baby’s healing belly button. It is machine-washable and apt for everyday use.
Pros
- Free from harmful dyes
- One-piece design
- Provides easy diaper change
- Prevents uncomfortable pulling
Cons
- May be a bit large for some
- May shrink after washing
Quick tip11. Best Organic:Burt’s Bees Henley One Piece Baby Jumpsuit
If you are looking for a jumpsuit that does not ride up constantly, the one-piece suit by Burt’s Bees is worth considering. The light gray suit has a subtle hue and features dark gray cuffs that keep the ankles in place, making the garment comfortable and snug-fitting. The high-quality and soft baby clothes are gentle on the skin, preventing the body from overheating. Additionally, it has a three-button henley neck and elbow patches that add to the durability of the jumpsuit.
Pros
- Low-maintenance outfit
- Made from GOTS-certified organic cotton
- Combed and ring-spun
- Facilitates easy diaper changing
- Does not pill upon washing
Cons
- May be bigger than expected
- Some may find the fabric thin
"I struggle to find the right size for my little one, but the Burt�s Bees baby outfit fits him just fine. The design details like elbow patches and the option to cover feet add practicality and charm. It is a well-received addition to my baby�s wardrobe for comfort and style."
How To Choose The Right Baby Preemie Clothes?
Here are some pointers you should keep in mind when picking clothes for your preemie.
- Material: Pick fibers that are organic and natural to prevent allergens. Choose soft materials that are safe for preemie’s sensitive skin.
- One- or two-piece: If the umbilical cord of your preemie has been removed, they can wear onesies. These will keep them warm and snug. If the cord has not been removed, a snap-button shirt with full pants is a good idea.
- Hats: Keeping the head covered protects preemies from cold. Cotton, knitted wool, or crocheted hats are good choices.
- Zippers and buttons: Choose closures that are smooth and easy to use and do not poke or pinch the delicate skin. Clothes with two-way zipper, or ones that open at the bottom or side make it easy to change diapers. Flaps in the zipper keep it from hurting the baby in any way. Snap-closure is another hassle-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do preemie babies fit in their preemie clothes?
A preemie baby can fit in the preemie clothes until they reach five pounds or exceed 17 inches in length.
2. Should premature babies wear hats?
Premie babies sleep with hats on while in the neonatal unit (1). However, you should remove the hats once they reach home, as hats may overheat them.
3. How often should I change newborn clothes?
You should change your preemie or infant’s clothes two to four times a day to keep them clean and hygienic.
Maggie Sutherland, an award-winning maternity and child photographer and mom of four, says, “Don’t forget to pre-wash your baby’s new clothes as they might have chemicals and particles harmful to your baby. Use child-safe detergents that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.”
4. How many layers of clothes should a preemie wear?
Your preemie needs only one additional layer over the number of layers an adult wears to keep their body warm (2). Over-layering may overheat them.
5. Does a five-pound baby need preemie clothes?
Yes, babies weighing five pounds can easily fit in preemie clothes for a couple of weeks or more.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag specializes in clothing, fashion, and skincare products and uses her multidisciplinary experience to find the best products for the readers. She has created this list of the best preemie clothes with a brief description of every product after considering different customer reviews and factoring in product quality, fit, and comfort. The article also has a buying guide section that helps choose the right clothes as per your little one’s requirements.
Preemie clothes help your baby keep comfortable and double their cuteness quotient. Now that you’ve gone through our list of the best preemie clothes with a variety of uses and which can be worn in different seasons of the year, picking one that best suits your little one can be easy. Also, choose one that is conducive to your baby’s sensitive skin. So, check the material and if the zippers and buttons are covered in the flaps to make sure your baby is comfortable and relaxed while wearing it.
Infographic: How To Select The Right Fabric For A Baby’s Clothes?
Baby clothes are essential garments designed for the comfort and style of infants and toddlers. Apart from their cute appearance and size, it’s important to consider factors such as fabric and stitching to ensure comfort and minimize skin irritation. Explore the infographic below to learn how to choose the appropriate fabric for your baby’s clothes.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Safer Sleep Advice for Premature Babies
https://www.ulh.nhs.uk/content/uploads/2019/05/The-Lullaby-Trust-Safer-Sleep-Advice-For-Premature-Babies.pdf - Tips for Dressing Your Baby
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Dressing-Your-Newborn.aspx
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