It's worth having one or two really nice outfits to take the baby out in to 'show them off', but more than that is a bit of a waste - they will grow out of clothes before they wear out of them, so don't go overboard spending money on designer clothes that will only fit for a couple of months.

I believe it's already been said, but I'm reinforcing the comment about clothes that do up at the back- they are painful. Two piece outfits or crotchsnaps are much better for nappy access.

Trying to keep socks on a baby is an exercise in futility, better to go with slippers that do up firmly around the baby's ankles. Most babies will try to kick off foot coverings and slip their feet out of socks, so anything that is loose-fitting is a goner!

A couple of cozy, soft hats are a must for newborns - try to make sure that there are no irritating seams or rough fabric inside the lining. There are some beautiful bright felt beanies around these days that are soft and warm, or if you are lucky and your Mum knits, soft babywool is a winner.

Kerrie