Baby Bows: A Complete Guide to Styling, Safety & Comfort for Newborns and Infants

Why Bamboo Baby Bows Are the Softest Start

There’s something timeless about a baby in a bow. A small touch that brings warmth to a photo, adds personality to an outfit, and turns a quiet moment into one you’ll remember forever. But for many new parents, bows raise questions. Are they safe for newborns? Do they stay in place? How do you choose the right material?

This guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about baby bows, from safety to styling, from sizing to softness, so you can feel confident dressing your baby in a way that’s both sweet and sensible.

Are Baby Bows Safe?
Why Use Hair Bows for Infants and Newborns?
Bow Types
Bow Materials: What’s Soft, Safe and Stylish?
Why Bamboo Bows Are Perfect for Newborns
How to Choose the Right Bow Size for Your Baby
Styling Tips for Baby Bows
Tips to Keep Baby Bows in Place
Are There Any Downsides to Baby Bows?
Wash Tips and Storage for Bamboo Baby Bows
Final Notes

MA-MA NYC: Soft Bows, Thoughtfully Designed

Every MA-MA NYC bow is made to feel soft from the start and stay comfortable through everyday moments - feeding, napping, stroller walks and family visits. Our baby bows are crafted from OEKO-TEX® certified bamboo fabric, known for its breathability, stretch and smooth texture against newborn skin.

We don’t use tight elastics or synthetic blends. Instead, our bows flex gently and stay put without leaving marks. The Lilly Baby Bow, part of our signature collection, is designed to pair with our swaddles, gowns and footies. It’s soft enough for newborns, flexible enough for daily use and lovely enough for photos without adding bulk or pressure. Click on the link below and explore our full collection.

Explore Bamboo Baby Bows

Are Baby Bows Safe?

Safety is always the first question, and the right one to ask. Yes, baby bows are safe, as long as they’re used thoughtfully and made from gentle, non-irritating materials.

The most important factor is supervision. A bow should never be worn when your baby is sleeping or left unattended, especially during the newborn stage. Even soft, stretchy bows can shift or slide down, and anything near a baby’s face during sleep is a risk. Save bows for awake time, photo moments and outings where you can gently adjust them as needed.

Fit also matters. A bow should sit snugly without leaving marks or feeling tight. Too loose, and it may slip into your baby’s eyes or mouth. Too tight, and it can irritate the skin or scalp. Choose bows designed to offer a gentle stretch that adapts with your baby’s head shape without squeezing or slipping.

Another common concern is choking hazards. Avoid bows with small parts, beads, clips or glued elements that could detach. Soft fabric bows with fully sewn construction are the safest choice for infants and newborns.

Keep in mind that bows aren’t meant for all-day wear. They're ideal for short periods, like meeting loved ones, special events or creating photo memories. Use them like you would a special outfit - something thoughtful, not constant.

Finally, always remove bows before naps, bedtime or time in the car seat. Even well-fitted bows are safest when worn under your supervision.

A bow can be a sweet, beautiful touch to your baby’s outfit, but safety starts with awareness and smart design.

Why Use Hair Bows for Infants and Newborns?

For many parents, baby bows are more than just a cute accessory. They offer a simple way to bring a personal, expressive touch to your baby’s everyday look, without needing a full outfit change. Bows allow you to highlight your baby’s features, coordinate with special occasions, or simply add a little joy to an ordinary day.

For newborn girls especially, bows help communicate their gender when hair or clothing doesn’t make it obvious. Many parents mention they feel more confident introducing their baby in public with a bow that gently signals, “She’s a girl,” especially in those early months.

Newborn bows also serve a soft, sensory purpose. When made from bamboo or other gentle materials, they don’t irritate sensitive skin or cause discomfort. They’re easy to put on and remove, making them a low-effort, high-impact addition to your baby’s wardrobe.

In professional photos or birth announcements, bows add a sense of occasion. In everyday life, they become part of your baby’s signature look - sweet, soft, and distinctly hers.

Bow Types

Baby bows come in several styles, each with its own feel, fit and purpose. Some are made for newborns, others for older infants with more hair, and many are designed to stretch and grow with your baby over time. Knowing the main types can help you choose the best one for your baby’s stage and your styling goals.

Nylon Headband Bows

These are the most common for newborns. The bow is attached to a soft, ultra-stretchy nylon band that fits snugly but gently around the baby’s head. They’re lightweight, simple to use, and don’t require hair to stay in place. Ideal for photos, daily wear and sensitive scalps.

Clip Bows

Perfect once your baby has enough hair for a clip to hold. These bows attach with a small alligator or snap clip, offering a more grown-up look for infants and toddlers. They’re better suited for short bursts of wear since babies may pull them out.

Tie or Wrap Bows

These come as long strips of fabric you tie yourself into a bow, like a scarf. They’re adjustable and offer a handmade, oversized look that’s popular in milestone photos. Not ideal for newborns who need a quicker, more secure option, but great for style flexibility in older babies.

Knot Bows

A minimalist version of the bow that’s small, tidy, and understated. Usually fixed to a headband, knot bows are a subtle way to add polish without overpowering your baby’s features.

Bow Materials: What’s Soft, Safe and Stylish?

The material of a baby bow matters more than you might expect. It touches your baby’s delicate skin, rests on their soft scalp, and can affect comfort, stretch and overall appearance. Here are the most common materials used for infant bows and how they compare.

Bamboo

Naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and incredibly soft, bamboo is a top choice for newborn accessories. It regulates temperature, resists irritation, and has a light stretch that stays put without leaving marks. Bamboo also absorbs dye well, making colors rich without harsh chemicals. For babies with sensitive skin or those born in warmer climates, bamboo bows offer a combination of function and beauty that’s hard to beat.

Cotton

A familiar favorite, cotton bows come in everything from structured, crisp styles to softer jersey blends. While natural and breathable, cotton doesn’t stretch as much as bamboo or nylon, so cotton bows may rely on the band itself for flexibility. They’re durable and great for everyday wear, though they can feel stiff on sensitive scalps if not blended with other fibers.

Linen

Linen bows offer a rustic, textured look perfect for special occasions or vintage-inspired outfits. Lightweight and breathable, they’re usually paired with soft backing materials to keep the texture from irritating skin. Linen tends to wrinkle easily and is less stretchy, so it’s best for older babies who won’t tug at their bow as much.

Nylon (for headbands)

While not the bow itself, the band attached to many baby bows is made from ultra-soft nylon. It’s designed to grow with your baby’s head and offers gentle compression without discomfort. Nylon bands are often combined with bamboo or cotton bows to create a flexible, secure fit.

Why Bamboo Bows Are Perfect for Newborns

When you’re dressing a newborn, every material choice matters. Their skin is thinner, more sensitive, and more prone to irritation, especially around the scalp, where baby bows sit. That’s why bamboo stands out as a top pick for baby hair accessories.

Bamboo fabric is naturally hypoallergenic, making it a safer option for babies prone to skin sensitivities or cradle cap. Its breathability helps regulate temperature, which is especially helpful in the newborn stage when babies can’t control their body heat as well as older children.

Bamboo is also incredibly soft, with a smooth feel that won’t tug at fine baby hair or leave red marks on delicate skin. It stretches gently for a secure fit, without squeezing too tight. And because it’s moisture-wicking, it stays comfortable even during warm weather or active moments.

If you're looking for a bow that feels as gentle as it looks, our Lilly Baby Bow is a favorite. Made from premium quality bamboo it offers a sweet finishing touch to any outfit without compromising softness or stretch.

Shop Lilly Baby Bow

How to Choose the Right Bow Size for Your Baby

Look for bows labeled as “newborn” or “0–6 months” for the best fit in the earliest weeks. These are typically sized to stay secure without being tight. As your baby grows, you can explore slightly larger bows or ones with adjustable bands that accommodate changes in head size.

With baby bows, size matters, but simplicity helps. MA-MA NYC’s bows are designed in a universal size that fits comfortably from newborn through infancy. The key isn’t having multiple sizes, it’s having a stretchable, soft band that adjusts gently to your baby’s head without leaving marks or feeling tight.

Universal sizing removes the guesswork. You don’t need to measure or size up every few months. The lightweight construction and soft bamboo fabric allow the bow to stay in place, adapting as your baby grows.

This kind of flexible fit is ideal for newborns and still works beautifully for older infants, especially since many moms want bows that can be worn regularly, not just for photos. If it stays on, feels soft and doesn’t bother your baby.

Styling Tips for Baby Bows

Baby bows help frame your baby’s face, add personality to an outfit, and make photos even more special.

For everyday wear, go with soft, neutral tones that pair well with most outfits. Bows in shades like blush, cream, or natural bamboo tones complement a baby’s wardrobe without stealing the show. These are also perfect for newborn photo shoots, hospital visits and first family outings.

When you want a pop of color, like for holidays, birthdays, or celebrations, reach for brighter hues or soft florals.

If your baby has very fine or little hair, wide fabric bows or headwrap-style designs stay in place better and distribute pressure more gently. And when matching bows to an outfit, think in terms of texture as well as color. Pair a bamboo gown with a bamboo bow for a unified feel or contrast a cotton dress with a textured linen bow for depth.

Less is often more. Let the bow complement, not overpower your baby’s natural charm.

Tips to Keep Baby Bows in Place

Even the softest bows can slip off tiny heads, especially if your baby is active, has little hair or tends to tug at accessories. But with a few small adjustments, you can help a bow stay put comfortably.

First, make sure the bow or headband is snug without being tight. It should stay in place without leaving marks on your baby’s forehead or around the ears. For babies with fine hair, opt for fabric bows with wider bands that offer better grip. Avoid slick materials that shift easily on smooth skin.

Another tip: position the bow just above the ear rather than dead center on the forehead. This helps with both fit and visibility, especially for newborns who are mostly lying down. If your bow keeps sliding, placing it over soft baby hair can help anchor it.

During warm weather or naps, consider removing the bow. Even the best-fitting bows can shift when your baby gets warm or rolls their head during sleep.

Comfort and safety come first. If the bow needs constant adjusting, try a different style or material that’s more suited to your baby’s size or stage.

Are There Any Downsides to Baby Bows?

While baby bows are popular and often seen as an adorable finishing touch, there are a few things to consider before using them regularly.

First, not all babies tolerate accessories. Some infants may try to pull bows off, which can lead to frustration or stretched out headbands. If your baby is especially sensitive to anything on their head, even the softest bow might not be a fit right away.

Another concern is overuse. A bow should never feel tight, leave marks or become a constant fixture during naps or sleep. Even breathable fabrics can shift or irritate delicate skin if worn too long.

There’s also the matter of materials. Bows made from synthetic fibers or heavily decorated pieces (like those with glue, plastic beads or stiff clips) may cause discomfort, pose choking hazards or overheat your baby’s head. That’s why you should always check the label and opt for bows made with natural, baby-safe materials like bamboo or organic cotton.

Lastly, there’s care and upkeep. Bows made of natural fiber, may require hand-washing and proper storage to maintain their shape and softness. This adds a small layer of responsibility for busy parents juggling daily routines.

MA-MA NYC baby bow, hat & swaddle bundle

Wash Tips and Storage for Bamboo Baby Bows

To wash bamboo baby bows, hand washing is the safest option. Use cool water and a mild, baby-safe detergent. Gently swirl the bow in the water without twisting or wringing it, then rinse thoroughly.

Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which can break down bamboo fibers and cause stiffness or fading.

After washing, lay the bow flat on a clean towel and reshape it while damp. Air dry completely before putting it away. Heat from dryers can cause shrinkage or misshaping.

For storage, keep bows away from direct sunlight. You can lay them flat in a drawer, store them in a fabric pouch or gently clip them to a ribbon or bow holder to avoid squishing or bending. Make sure they aren’t packed tightly with heavier items that could flatten the shape over time.

Final Notes

Baby bows might be small, but they hold a special place in those first few months. From adding a touch of charm to your newborn's photos to becoming part of your daily routine, they’re more than just accessories. When chosen carefully, they’re safe, soft and sweet ways to celebrate the early days.

If you’re considering your first bow or building a thoughtful gift set, bamboo bows offer an easy introduction. They’re lightweight, flexible and gentle on newborn skin. And since MA-MA NYC bows are made from breathable bamboo fabric, you can trust they’re designed for real moments, not just photo ops.

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