Little and Fern

Discover the ultimate baby’s first Christmas gift guide! Find cozy knitted rompers, heirloom blankets, and adorable holiday baby outfits — all made with love and care by Brave Little Lamb.

Bringing your newborn home is a joyful, memorable moment for new moms, and finding the perfect coming home outfit is a fun way to mark this special occasion. Comfort, ease, and practicality are key when choosing that first outfit. Here’s a guide on selecting the best pieces and fabrics for your newborn’s coming home outfit that combines style with the gentle touch your baby needs.1. Start with Soft FabricsBabies have incredibly delicate skin, so the choice of fabric is crucial. Look for breathable, natural materials like:- Organic Cotton: Organic cotton is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making it gentle on sensitive newborn skin. It also helps regulate temperature, which is key for keeping your baby comfortable.- Bamboo: Bamboo is another excellent choice, known for being incredibly soft, eco-friendly, and naturally moisture-wicking. It’s also more resistant to wrinkling, so it will look nice and fresh in those precious first photos.- Muslin: For summer babies, muslin fabric is ideal. It’s very lightweight and breathable, perfect for warmer weather while still providing coverage.Avoid synthetic materials like polyester, which can trap heat and may irritate sensitive skin. 2. Essential Outfit Pieces for a Coming Home LookPutting together the perfect outfit for your newborn’s first day home doesn’t need to be elaborate. Here are the must-have pieces to consider: Onesie or BodysuitA simple onesie or bodysuit is a great base layer. Look for something with easy snaps or a wrap style for gentle dressing, as newborns can be fragile. Short or long sleeves depend on the season, but keep it simple for easy diaper changes on the go.Footed Pants or LeggingsFooted pants are a favorite for newborns. They keep your baby’s legs and feet warm without the need for separate socks, which can slip off easily. If you’re opting for leggings or pants, consider adding soft baby socks to keep those tiny feet cozy. Romper or SleeperA cozy sleeper can be an all-in-one outfit if you want to keep it simple. It covers the arms, legs, and feet, which is perfect for cooler weather. Rompers or onesies with feet also work beautifully for warmer days and eliminate the need for separate socks or booties.Cardigan or Wrap SweaterLayering is a good idea, especially if there’s a chance of temperature changes. A light, soft cardigan or a wrap-style sweater can add warmth without being bulky. Go for something easy to slip on and off, and avoid options with heavy buttons or zippers, which might feel uncomfortable on your baby’s delicate skin.Hat or BeanieNewborns tend to lose a lot of heat through their heads, so a soft hat or beanie is essential for keeping them warm. Choose one that’s made from cotton or bamboo fabric, and ensure it fits snugly without being too tight.Swaddle BlanketA swaddle blanket is a comforting addition to your baby’s outfit. Not only does it keep them warm, but it also mimics the coziness of the womb. You can drape it over their car seat on the way home or wrap them in it for an extra layer of comfort. Great option for hospital photos, I've seen some really nice ones with personalization.  3. Consider Seasonal NeedsThe time of year plays a big role in choosing the right outfit.- Spring/Fall: Layers are your best friend here. A long-sleeved onesie paired with footed pants and a cardigan or sweater will provide adjustable warmth.- Winter: For colder weather, opt for a cozy romper or footed sleeper, paired with a hat, mittens, and an extra fleece or wool blanket. Just ensure your baby won’t overheat in their car seat.- Summer: Stick to lightweight onesies or rompers, and consider breathable fabrics like muslin. Keep the layers light and bring a breathable swaddle or blanket for the car. 4. Practical Tips for Dressing Your NewbornHere are a few things to keep in mind to make the experience smoother:- Avoid Complicated Fastener: Choose outfits with simple snaps, zippers, or wrap closures to make dressing and diaper changes easy.- Mind the Waistband: Opt for gentle, stretchy waistbands that won’t put pressure on their belly, especially if they still have their umbilical stump.- Easy Diaper Access: Bodysuits and onesies with crotch snaps make for quicker diaper changes, so you’re not undressing your newborn completely each time.Final Touches: The Perfect Coming Home OutfitYour newborn’s coming home outfit doesn’t have to be fancy to be memorable. A soft, cozy onesie with footed pants or a footed sleeper, a gentle beanie, and a warm blanket will create a beautiful, timeless look that’s easy for both you and your little one. Plus, it’ll be captured in those first home photos you’ll cherish forever.With a little planning and thoughtful choices, your baby’s coming home outfit will be as sweet, safe, and snuggly as they are! **See our newborn essentials collection or baby announcement pieces collection for inspiration!

Knitted baby clothes are soft, warm, and absolutely adorable. But they need special care to stay beautiful and comfortable for your baby. Whether you’ve just received a precious gift like a knitted newborn outfit, or you’ve invested in handmade baby clothes, knowing how to wash and care for them properly is important.In this tutorial, we'll guide you through easy steps and useful tips to ensure your infant knitted clothes remain fresh, soft, and ready for each snuggle. Why Special Care Is Needed for Knitted Baby Clothes Knitted items are made from yarn, which is more delicate than regular fabric. Unlike store-bought baby onesies or t-shirts, infant knitwear can stretch, lose shape, or become damaged in the wash if you’re not careful. Babies also have sensitive skin, so it’s best to avoid harsh detergents or rough washing cycles that could affect the texture of the clothes.Most parents opt for neutral-colored infant clothes that are made of organic cotton, wool, or bamboo yarn. These materials are soft and breathable, but they need gentle washing if they are to be kept in good condition. Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Infant Knitted Outfits 1. Read the Label First Always read the care label on your baby's clothing. If it's homemade, ask the vendor or knitter if there are special instructions for washing. Every material has its own washing guidelines. Merino wool, for instance, requires different treatment than cotton yarn. 2. Hand Wash When You Can Hand washing is the most secure way to go with most knitted goods. Here's how you do it: Fill a basin or bucket with lukewarm water. Add a few drops of baby-safe or wool-safe detergent. Swish the outfit in the water gently, don't rub or wring it. Soak for 10–15 minutes. Rinse with clean, lukewarm water. 3. Machine Wash With Care (if allowed) If the label states machine wash is permitted: Use a mesh laundry bag to shield the outfit. Select a gentle cycle using cold or lukewarm water. Use baby detergent, no scent and no dye. Avoid using fabric softeners since these cause damage to natural fibers. 4. Never Wring or Twist When washing, gently squeeze out the water with your hands. Do not wring or twist the clothing, it may stretch or damage the yarn. How to Dry Knitted Baby Clothes 1. Lay Flat to Dry The golden rule of drying knitted garments: always dry flat. Set the piece down on a clean towel, reshape it gently, and air-dry away from the sun or heaters. 2. Do not Hang Hanging a wet knitted garment can stretch it out. Even small garments can lose their shape when hung on a clothesline or on a hanger. 3. Dry Indoors or in Shade Exposure to too much sun can bleach colors. Dry infant knitted garments indoors or in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Storing Knitted Baby Clothes Correct storing maintains the appearance and texture of sensitive knits: Fold rather than hang. Store in a dry, dust-free drawer or container. Store clothes away from moths, lavender sachets or cedar blocks are perfect. Don't store in plastic, as natural fibers must breathe. Knit infant garments such as the gentle sweaters from Brave Little Lamb are frequently heirloom items. Proper storage will allow them to be saved for siblings, or even for the next generation. How to Remove Stains from Knit Infant Garments Infants are messy, and that's just part of their charm! These are the steps for removing typical stains safely: Spit-up or milk: Rinse with cold water, then soak with mild soap prior to washing. Diaper blowouts: Dampen the area with water and baking soda, then wash lightly. Food stains: Blot (do not scrub!) the spot gently with water and soap. Lemon juice can be used to naturally lighten stubborn areas, first test on a small area. Always treat spots immediately and do not use hot water, which will set the stain forever. How Often Should You Wash Knitted Clothes? Baby knitted clothing should not be washed after each use unless they get visibly dirty. Overwashing them will make them wear out quicker. Onesies and tops: Wash after 1–2 uses Cardigans or sweaters: Wash after 3–4 uses Blankets and accessories: Wash only when necessary Having some neutral baby clothes in rotation keeps washing at a minimum and keeps your baby's wardrobe looking fresh. FAQs Q1: Can I tumble dry baby knitted garments?No. The tumble drying will shrink or distort the shape. Always dry flat on air. Q2: Which detergent is best for washing knitted baby clothes?Use mild, fragrance-free baby detergent or a specialized wash for wool. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Q3: How do I stop pilling on knitted garments?Wash inside out, gentle detergent, and no rubbing or wringing. Pilling can also be carefully removed with a fabric comb. Q4: Are knitted garments too hot for summer babies?Not at all! Lightweight cotton or bamboo baby knits are airy and perfect for hot weather. Simply select short-sleeved or lightweight pieces. Q5: Can I iron a knitted newborn garment?It's best not to. The heat can ruin the yarn. If necessary, steam the garment lightly from a distance, or put it flat with a damp cloth to iron it out. Final Thoughts Taking care of your baby's clothes, particularly delicate infant knitted garments, doesn't have to be a chore. By giving them a bit more care and handling them with care, you can keep these beautiful, soft, hand-knit items in stunning condition for months, possibly even years. From a treasured knitted newborn sweater to hand-me-downs or bespoke gifts, lovingly looked-after knitwear adds warmth, character, and a personal touch to your baby's first days. So, no matter if you're dressing your tot in a loving present from Brave Little Lamb or a set of neutral baby attire you've put together yourself, a little attention will go a long, long way.