Which Accessories Are Commonly Used for Newborns and Babies?

Baby accessories serve real purposes beyond looking cute (though that's a solid bonus):

• Headwear – Sun hats with broad brims protect delicate skin from UV rays. Beanies keep heads warm in cold weather. We see these two as part of your babywear essentials.

• Sunglasses – Protect eyes from UV damage and glare. Look for wraparound styles with UV protection and soft, flexible frames. Some babies love them, others pull them straight off.

• Earmuffs – Keep ears toasty during winter and help to protect hearing from loud environments like fireworks or concerts. Adjustable bands ensure proper fit.

• Mittens – Prevent newborns from scratching their faces with those surprisingly sharp tiny nails. They also keep their hands warm and cosy in cold weather.

• Socks – Keep feet warm and protected. Babies lose heat through their extremities, so socks matter more than you'd think.

• Hair clips and accessories – Keep hair out of eyes once there's enough to clip. Look for soft, gentle designs that won't pull on that precious, delicate baby hair.

• Shoes and booties – Mainly for warmth and protection before walking starts. Choose soft, flexible options that don't restrict natural foot development. For more tips on how this works, we’ve got some tips on proper footwear as babies grow.

What Should Be Included in an Essential Baby Accessories Checklist?

Everyday essentials

• 2-3 sun hats with chin straps and broad brims

• 2-3 beanies for cold weather

• 4-6 pairs of socks (they vanish like adult socks, only faster)

• 2-3 pairs of scratch mittens for newborns

• Soft booties for warmth

Travel essentials

• Compact sun hat 

• Sunglasses with strap (to prevent losing them)

• Earmuffs for air travel with baby (cabin pressure changes)

• Extra socks and mittens (always pack more than you think you need)

• Lightweight accessories that pack small

Travelling for the first time with your bub can be tricky, so we’ve got a holiday packing checklist as well as travel essentials we love to make the whole experience easier.

What to Consider When Choosing Baby Accessories

Soft, breathable fabrics feel lovely on delicate skin. Look for the proper fit (for example snug enough to stay put, loose enough to be comfortable). Everything should be machine washable and sun hats need UPF protection and chin straps to stay on tiny heads. Skip accessories with detachable bits like buttons or beads and for summer dressing, read up here on how to dress a baby for summer.

The Final Word

Baby accessories are where function meets design, sun hats that shield sensitive faces, scratch mittens for brand new fingernails, socks so small they barely seem real. Choose pieces that work as hard as they look adorable, because these fleeting newborn days deserve both.