If you're reading this, you might be a new parent to a premature baby—or you're about to become one. First of all, congrats on your little fighter, it's not easy going through a preterm birth. You're here because you're looking to buy preemie clothes right?
Premature babies, or preemies, are born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. They’re tiny, but mighty. Dressing them can be a little tricky at first, though.
When my daughter was born at 33 weeks, she weighed just under 4 pounds. The newborn clothes we had looked like tents on her. I remember holding up a cute onesie and realizing it was almost the size of her entire body! We had to learn fast what worked for her size, her comfort, and her needs.
So here’s what I wish someone had told me about clothing for premature babies—clear, simple, and straight from experience.
What Size Are Preemie Clothes?
Preemie clothing is made especially for babies born too small for newborn sizes. Most brands label these clothes as "Preemie" or "P" size.
Here’s a rough guide:
Preemie Size (P) fits babies:
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Weighing between 1 to 5 pounds
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Measuring up to 17 inches long
Some brands even have smaller sizes like “Micro Preemie” or “Tiny Baby” for babies under 3 pounds. Always check the label—sizes can vary a bit between brands.
If a baby weighs more than 5 pounds or is longer than 17 inches, Preemie size may become too snug or short. In that case, you'd typically move up to Newborn (NB) size, which generally fits:
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Weight: 5 to 8 pounds
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Length: 17 to 21 inches
Above these weight or length, you move up to regular clothes sizes for babies like 3M, 6M, and so on.
What Weight Does Preemie Clothes Fit?
Preemie clothes are designed to fit babies who weigh between 1 to 5 pounds and are generally up to 17 inches long. This size is smaller than the standard newborn size, which typically starts around 5 to 8 pounds. Some brands even offer smaller sizes like “Micro Preemie” for babies under 3 pounds.
It's important to check the label when buying, as sizing can vary a little by brand. Once your baby reaches about 5 to 6 pounds, they’ll usually be ready to move up to newborn-sized clothing. Until then, preemie-sized outfits will give a better fit and help keep your baby warm and comfortable.
Consider Special NICU Needs
Some preemie clothes are made just for NICU use. They have extra openings for medical equipment and don’t get in the way of care.
Look for labels like:
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“NICU-Friendly”
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“Hospital-Approved”
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“Monitor Access”
One brand we loved had onesies with snaps all over—like everywhere—so wires could come out any side without pinching or pulling. Genius.
The NICU hospital nurses were also super helpful. They taught us how to dress our baby gently without disturbing her wires. They even helped us bring in a few outfits from home once she was stable. Seeing her in her own clothes felt like such a big, happy step.
A Personal Note
When we first started bringing clothes to the NICU, I felt both excited and nervous. It felt so personal—like we were finally doing something “normal.” Those tiny pajamas and sleepers I picked out made everything feel more real. Dressing my baby for the first time, even in a size smaller than I ever imagined buying, felt like a big win.
Don’t be discouraged if your baby stays in a diaper and swaddle for a while. That’s totally normal in the early days. When it’s time, those tiny clothes will mean so much more than just fabric—they’ll be a sign of progress.
How Do You Dress a Preemie Baby?
Dressing a preemie is not just about cuteness—it’s about ease, safety, and warmth.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Soft fabrics: Their skin is super sensitive. Go for cotton or organic cotton.
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Easy access: Many preemies have feeding tubes or monitors. Clothes that open in front or have snaps or Velcro down the chest and legs are ideal.
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No tags inside: Look for tagless options or cut them off.
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Footed items: Helps keep them warm without needing socks (which often fall off).
In the NICU, babies are often just in diapers and swaddles until they’re stable enough to wear clothes. Nurses will let you know when it’s okay to start dressing them.
What Kinds of Clothes Do Preemies Need?
Here’s a list of clothing items that worked best for us and many other NICU parents:
1. Kimono-style Onesies
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Wrap-style, open in the front.
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No need to pull over baby’s head.
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Snaps or Velcro—easy with IVs or monitors.
2. Footed Sleepers
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Keep baby warm from head to toe.
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Look for ones that zip or snap down the front.
3. Gowns with Open Bottoms
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Easy diaper changes, especially at night.
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No waistbands pressing on sensitive tummies.
4. Hats
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Babies lose heat through their heads.
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NICUs usually provide cotton hats, but it’s good to have a few extras.
5. Scratch Mittens
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Some babies scratch their faces.
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Also good for warmth since preemies have poor circulation.
6. Swaddle Blankets
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Soft, stretchy ones.
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Great for comfort and warmth, especially in the NICU.
7. Socks (optional)
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Most preemie sleepers have feet.
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Socks are hit-or-miss—cute, but they often fall off tiny feet.
How Many Clothes Do a Premature Baby Needs?
Preemies don’t need a huge wardrobe. They grow fast, and you may only use the Preemie size for a few weeks.
Here’s a good starting list:
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5–6 onesies
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3–4 sleepers
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2–3 gowns
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3 hats
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2 pairs of mittens
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2–3 swaddle blankets
Wash often and rotate. Preemie laundry is small—it doesn’t pile up fast.
Where Can You Buy Preemie Clothes?
Not all stores carry Preemie sizes in-store, but here are some great options:
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Carter’s – good fit, soft fabrics, and affordable.
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Gerber – also makes smaller “Tiny Baby” sizes.
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Target – online options usually have more preemie items.
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Amazon – tons of variety; great for urgent orders.
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Preemie-specific brands – like Perfectly Preemie and Itty Bitty Baby. These focus only on premature baby gear.
Tip: Don’t buy too many clothes ahead of time. You won’t know what your baby will need until they’re born and stable.
Summary
Preemie clothes don’t have to be complicated. Stick to soft, easy-to-use pieces. Start with a few essentials, and build from there as your baby grows.
Here’s a quick recap:
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Preemie size fits 1–5 lbs and up to 17 inches.
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Choose clothes with front snaps or wrap styles.
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Look for NICU-friendly items if needed.
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Don’t overbuy—they grow fast.
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Soft, breathable fabrics are best.
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Dressing your preemie is a milestone—enjoy it.
And most of all, take it one day at a time. You’ve got this.
