How Much Do Baby Clothes Cost?

Last Updated on August 5, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Preparing for a new baby comes with many expenses, from diapers and formula to nursery furniture and strollers. Clothing a new baby is exciting but can also be overwhelming for new parents trying to parse through the countless outfit options while staying on budget.

So, what’s the true cost of keeping your little one fashionably dressed? With some savvy strategies, you can stock up on baby apparel without breaking the bank.

In this guide, we’ll break down the typical pricing for different types of baby clothes, look at cost-saving tips for shopping, and review what impacts your total expenditures.

How Much Do Baby Clothes Cost?

On average, baby clothes costs span between $100 to $300 per month on that first year. But costs vary significantly based on factors like quality preferences, shopping habits, gender, and seasonality.

The first few months require the smallest-sized clothes. Expect to spend:

• Onesies – $5 to $15 each
• Sleepers – $10 to $25 each
• Socks – $8 for a 5-pack
• Hats – $8 to $15 each
• Pants – $10 to $25 per pair
• Jackets/sweaters – $20 to $40 each

You’ll need around 15 pieces for a basic newborn wardrobe. Depending on brands and styles, total costs often range $150 to $400.

Since newborns grow quickly, focus on essentials in 0-3 month and 3–6-month sizes. Stock up on plenty of onesies for ease of diaper changes.

According to a discussion on Reddit, many parents report spending around $60 to $80 on baby clothes for the first few months, often purchasing in bundles from thrift stores or online marketplaces. Some users mentioned spending about £20 (approximately $25) for bundles of clothes in sizes 0-6 months, highlighting the affordability of secondhand options.

BabyCenter provides insights into overall baby expenses and mentions that clothing can be a significant part of the budget. They estimate that parents might spend around $243 on clothing in the first month alone, which reflects the rapid growth of infants and the need for frequent replacements.

A report from Parents indicates that parents typically spend between $500 and $1,000 on baby clothes during the first year. This figure can vary widely depending on whether parents choose to buy new clothes or opt for secondhand items. The article emphasizes that many parents find it practical to buy fewer outfits due to the fast growth rates of infants.

Walmart lists various baby clothing items at prices starting as low as $5.98, showcasing the affordability of basic baby clothes available at large retailers.

Infant and Baby Clothes Costs

As babies reach 3-24 months, they require expanded wardrobes. Average prices for infant apparel:

• Short sleeve bodysuits – $6 to $15
• Pants – $10 to $25
• Shorts – $8 to $15
• Dresses – $15 to $35
• Outfit sets – $15 to $35
• Sweatshirts – $15 to $30
• Pajamas – $10 to $25
• Outerwear – $25 to $60

You’ll need about 20 pieces for a basic baby wardrobe. Total costs typically end up $250 to $600+.

You might also like our articles about the cost of formula, pacifiers, or food for your baby.

Factors Impacting Baby Clothes Pricing

Several factors influence how much you’ll spend on baby clothes:

• Brand – Premium brands like Carter’s cost more than budget-friendly Target clothes.
• Material – Natural fibers like cotton and wool are pricier than synthetic blends. Organic materials also cost more.
• Season – In-season clothes are often less expensive than off-season.
• Sales – Shopping end-of-season clearance sales can save up to 70% off original prices.
• Retailer – Department stores charge higher prices than discount stores like Walmart.
• Gender – Some parents splurge more on baby girl dresses and accessories which can increase costs.

Consider your priorities like quality, sustainability, and style to guide spending. Stocking up during sales helps maximize your budget.

Price Comparison by Retailer

To demonstrate cost differences, here’s an overview of estimated prices for popular retailers:

• Discount retailers (Walmart, Target) – $3 to $15 per piece
• Mid-tier retailers (JCPenney, Kohl’s) – $5 to $25 per piece
• High-end retailers (Nordstrom, Saks) – $15 to $50 per piece
• Boutiques and luxury brands – $25 to $100+ per piece

Even basics like onesies or socks show major price gaps between budget and luxury brands. Sample sales to find deals.

Managing Baby Clothing Costs Across Ages

Baby clothing needs and associated costs vary as children grow:

0-3 months:

• Focus on basics like onesies, pajamas, socks – $100 to $250

3-6 months:

• Expand with more separates like pants, tops – $150 to $300

6-12 months:

• Grow wardrobe with dresses, shorts, outfit sets – $200 to $400

12-24 months:

• Upgrade to more toddler-specific clothes as needed – $200 to $500

Adjust spending based on the essentials needed at each age. Keep costs down buying secondhand for quickly outgrown items.

Realistic Baby Clothing Budgets

Clothing costs will fluctuate monthly, but plan on budgeting:

• Newborns – $100 to $250 monthly
• Infants – $150 to $300 monthly
• Toddlers – $100 to $250 monthly

Shop sales, use hand-me-downs, and buy ahead in future sizes to lower costs. Build in a bit of buffer for spur of the moment purchases.

Tracking expenditures helps inform future monthly budgets. Adjust amounts as needed based on your baby’s growth and seasonal needs.

Additional Baby Clothing Costs

Beyond everyday basics, parents may splurge on:

• Special occasion outfits – $50 to $150 each
• Outerwear for colder climates – $75 to $250 per coat, snowsuit
• Shoes – $25 to $50 per pair
• Accessories like hats, bibs – $3 to $25 per item
• Designer pieces – $50 to $150+ per outfit

Buying designer duds or dressing for multiple occasions does increase total spending. Prioritize necessities first when allocating your budget.

Save Money on Baby Clothes

Here are some tips to keep your baby clothing costs under control:

• Buy secondhand – Check consignment stores, Facebook Marketplace, and thrift shops for lightly used clothes at fraction of retail prices.
• Accept hand-me-downs – Gently worn clothes from friends or family are free and environmentally friendly.
• Shop store brands – Generic store brand clothes cost 25-50% less than name brands.
• Wait for sales – Never pay full price if possible. Watch for discounts up to 75% off on seasonal items.
• Get loyalty program discounts – Sign up for baby clothing store membership programs to earn points and coupons.
• Buy in larger sizes – Get 6–12-month sizes to maximize value as baby grows. Avoid too-small clothes they’ll outgrow in weeks.

With some smart shopping strategies, you can keep baby outfitted in style without overspending!

Final Words

Between onesies, sleepers, outfits and outerwear, baby clothing costs add up quickly. Expect to spend around $100 to $300 monthly to clothe your little one in those precious first 12 months. Following sales, accepting hand-me-downs, buying secondhand, and focusing on essentials first enables you to affordably dress your baby in comfort and style.

Answers to Common Questions

What to expect for baby costs?

In addition to $100-$200 monthly on clothes, expect to spend $70-$100 on diapers, $80-$150 on formula and food once solids start, plus costs for medical care, childcare, stroller/gear, nursery furniture, toys, and other expenses. Budget $500-$1000 monthly the first year.

How often do you change baby clothes?

It’s ideal to change baby’s clothes whenever wet or soiled. Expect newborns to need 6-10 clothing changes per day and older infants 3-5 changes per day. Having plenty of onesies, socks, and multiple outfit sets makes quick changes easier.

What are some guidelines for choosing baby clothes?

Focus on comfort with soft, breathable natural fabrics. Choose snap closures over buttons for ease. Buy larger sizes to maximize longevity. Opt for zipper pajamas and footed sleepers to keep babies cozy. Look for elastic waists and stretch fabrics to accommodate growth spurts.