Our tips for buying baby clothes and keeping them like new

Due to showers and gifts when baby was born, you probably haven't had to buy a ton of clothing for your little bundle. I didn't really have to start buying clothes for my daughter until she hit that 6-12 month range, mostly because she was born after Christmas and there was holiday/birthday in site for gifts (otherwise, our families SPOIL us with clothing galore!). 

We've put together a great post of tips, our favorite clothing brands and ways to shop.

Tips for Keeping Baby's Clothing Like New

- Stay clear of white or super light clothing unless it is for a special occasion (unless you like the yellow stains that spit up and milk leave). 

- I'm not a fan of Dreft (faded baby's clothes plus I might be the only person that hates the smell of it), Tide Free and Clear is great and can be used on infant clothing as well as your clothing! 

- I'm also not a fan of stain remover. If my daughter got something super gross I would just immediately take it off of her and soak it in cold water overnight. Typically I'd just throw it in the next load of laundry and the stain was gone!

Thoughts on Some Popular Brands:

- Gerber- You can find this brand just about anywhere and the prices are right, but be aware that Gerber runs about 1 size too small (especially once washed and dried). Don't waste your money on anything NB in this brand unless you have a preemie. Good buys with this brand are typically their onesies and pajamas.  

- Carters- Again, most retailers carry this brand and the price is just right (and you can always find good sales!). Sizing is perfect- 0-3 months lasted us exactly 0-3 months...we've had successful sizing all the way up to 2T! The clothing quality is generally good and is perfect for everyday clothing, PJs...really the entire wardrobe! 

- Gymboree & The Children's Place- Can generally find these retailers at larger malls and even some outlet centers. I found that both brands ran big until the 24 month/2T size. The quality of clothing is better than average but on the pricey side (even when going to an outlet). These are perfect for some of those "special" outfits- church, outings, photo sessions...etc. They both have reasonably priced accessories like sunglasses, hair bows and hats (and it is easy to find these things on sale). 

- Gap & Old Navy- You can find these retailers at malls and outlet centers. The sizing is perfect and the quality is great for a decent price. Sales and coupons are easy to find. Both brands are great for everyday clothing, "special" outfits, PJs and even shoes (before walking) and swimsuits!

- Jumping Beans (Kohls)- Sizing is perfect, some (not all) pieces on are the lower quality clothing with less than average wear but are still great buys for the money. These are perfect for play clothes and everyday clothing, but you can NOT beat the socks...these are the only brand that would stay on my daughter's feet!

Tips for Saving Money on Baby's Clothing

- Don't go over board on tons of cute "special" outfits...it is tempting but you daughter isn't going to wear a tutu everyday and your son is going to grow to hate suspenders if you have him in them 24/7. 

- Think twice about boutique brands. There are tons of super high quality brands sold in small boutiques and online. Think about it before you buy...$60 might not be a terrible price for a pair of adult jeans but think twice about spending $60 on a pair of pants for your 3 month old. Really consider how often and how long they will be able to wear something before you pay top dollar for it.

- Don't be afraid to be gender neutral. Every outfit we bought or received for our daughter was pink kitties...somehow I don't think my son (due in November) will appreciate them as much. Consider buying a lot of the basics (think pajamas and laying onesies...) in neutral colors if you are thinking about having more children.

- Thrift stores/garage sales- This can be a GREAT way to find clothing for cheap cheap CHEAP! Words of caution before you buy used clothing- check it over REAAAAALLY good. Check for missing buttons/snaps, stains around the neck and butt area of shirts and inside pants plus overall fading of the fabric. 

- Shop online- this is a great way to compare prices and great sales. Check sites like RetailMeNot.com for promo codes (think 20% offs, free shipping...etc) and Zulily.com for quality clothing at super discounted prices.