The arrival of a new baby is surely the most important moment in a parent’s life. The parents’ life will be turned upside down and nothing will ever be the same again. That said, the parents will want to have everything ready for when their baby comes home for the first time. Everything from its cot to its pram, its bath, a nappy changing and dressing area and, of course, its clothes will have to be n place. As there is such a rich variety of clothes for the newborn and infant, one needs to decide what is necessary at the very beginning, in order not to waste money on things the baby will not need or use.

A baby’s very first clothes - usually called a layette, from the old middle French word laye for a box or chest, and which literally means a complete outfit of clothing and equipment for a newborn infant - must include all of the following items, besides vast amounts of nappies, either disposable or reusable.

A swaddle is basically a large oblong piece of fabric to wrap a baby in to prevent it from waving its arms about and kicking. Swaddles help babies to go to sleep, and to remain asleep. At a later date babies may be put into pyjamas or sleep sacks. It is also believed that swaddles lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.

Caps, mittens and bootees are important items. As most body heat escapes from the head, the new-born baby should have its head covered. Also, the fontanelle is a soft spot on a baby's head which needs to be protected until the bones of the skull harden. Mittens and bootees are a must so that the baby does not scratch itself.

Little vests - often referred to as hospital shirts - and waterproof pants to cover the nappy are essential baby wear. Babies need to be kept warm at all times, and layering of clothes is one of the best ways of keeping in body heat. Clearly, waterproof pants will prevent soiling of the outer clothes.

Baby grows - also known as footed sleepers, bodysuits and all-in-ones - are outfits which are usually fastened along the inside of the leg, allowing for easy changing of nappies. Although babies may sleep in them, they are mostly worn when the baby is awake; and they allow the baby to move its arms and legs freely. Winter styles enclose the baby from the foot to the wrist to the neck, while summer versions have short sleeves and legs.

Bibs are a necessity to prevent dribbles, milk or food getting onto the baby’s clothes, thus keeping its clothes cleaner for longer periods.

Bear in mind that every item of clothing for a baby must be super-soft, so that it does not to irritate its delicate skin. Natural fibres - such as cotton and lambs wool - are the best and there are now many suppliers of organic products available. Fastenings must be checked to see that they are flat and do not press into or hurt the baby.