What Should Baby Wear Home from the Hospital? A Coming Home Outfit Guide

Your hospital bag is packed, the car seat is installed, and now comes one of the sweetest decisions: what will baby wear home from the hospital? The coming home outfit shows up in some of the first family photos, so it's worth a little planning. Here's how to choose one that's comfortable, practical and photo-ready.

What makes a good coming home outfit?

• Soft, breathable fabric. Newborn skin is delicate. Organic cotton is gentle and comfortable.
• Easy access for diaper changes. Knot gowns, snaps and envelope necklines make life easier.
• No fuss. Skip anything with lots of buttons, stiff collars or decorations near the face.
• Car seat friendly. Avoid puffy coats or bulky layers under the harness. Add a blanket over the buckled straps instead.

Coming home outfit ideas

The knot gown

A knot gown might be the easiest newborn outfit there is. The open bottom makes diaper changes quick, and it looks effortlessly sweet in photos. Try the Natural knot gown for a classic look or Hi I'm New Here knot gown for an introduction-worthy message.

The matching set

A bodysuit, leggings and cap set creates a polished look in one step. Favorites include the Charley the Giraffe set, Watercolor Floral set and Woodland Bear set.

The cap and booties

Newborns lose heat quickly from their heads and feet. A soft hat and booties finish the outfit and keep them cozy. Our handmade alpaca knotted cap & bootie set also comes in sky blue and mauve.

See all of our coming home outfits.

What size coming home outfit should I pack?

You won't know baby's exact size until they arrive, so pack two sizes: newborn and 0-3 months. Smaller babies may swim in 0-3 months, while bigger babies can outgrow newborn sizes right away. If you expect a smaller baby, ask your care team about preemie sizing.

How to dress a newborn for the weather

• A common guideline: dress baby in one more layer than you're wearing.
• Cold weather: a long-sleeve bodysuit or gown, cap and booties, then a blanket over the buckled car seat straps.
• Warm weather: a single breathable layer like a short-sleeve bodysuit or light gown, plus a thin swaddle for shade.
• Check comfort: feel baby's chest or back of the neck. Sweaty means too warm; cool means add a layer.

Don't forget to pack

• A soft swaddle blanket for warmth and photos
• A spare outfit, just in case of a blowout
• Mittens or a gown with fold-over cuffs to protect from scratches

Coming home outfit FAQs

When should I buy a coming home outfit?

Many parents pick one out in the third trimester so it's washed and ready in the hospital bag a few weeks before the due date.

Should I wash the coming home outfit first?

Yes. Washing new baby clothes with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent before first wear is a good habit.

Is a coming home outfit a good baby shower gift?

It's one of the most meaningful ones. Parents remember the outfit their baby wore home for years.

Welcome home, little one. 🤍