Baby Clothes Explained: Differences Between Most Popular Clothing Items – Onesies, Bodysuits, Rompers, Footies, Gowns & More

Decoding Baby Clothing Terminology for New Parents

First-time moms have a lot to learn and face a lot of challenges. Picking baby outfits, such as onesies, knotted gowns, and footies, is a big part of preparing for a baby's arrival because it ensures the baby has practical and comfortable clothes for various situations. However, many moms expecting get stuck at this stage because they become confused about the terminology. They feel overwhelmed with all the different terms and have trouble understanding the differences between certain items. Bodysuit or onesie? A footie or a pajama? Knotted gown vs. sleep sack? A sleeper? It’s natural to be a little lost when everything is new to you.

With so many similar baby clothing items to choose from, it can feel impossible to get it right. But don’t feel discouraged. We’ll highlight the differences between commonly used baby clothing types, from onesies to gowns, pajamas to footies, and everything in between! Use our guidelines to easily decide which pieces to buy to build the perfect wardrobe for your little angel. Being a mom is an incredible blessing, but it’s not easy when you put a lot of pressure on yourself. Be gentle to yourself, trust the process, step back and acknowledge you’re doing an amazing job.

1. Bodysuits vs. onesies – What’s the difference?
2. How many bodysuits/onesies do I need?
3. Onesie vs. romper vs. jumpsuit
4. Howm many rompers and jumpsuits should I get?
5. Dressing your baby for sleep - Footies vs. pajamas vs. sleepers
6. How many pieces of sleepwear does a newborn need?
7. Knotted gown vs. swaddle vs. sleep sack
8. How many pieces do I need?
9. Conclusion

MA-MA NYC: Thoughtfully Designed Pieces for Every Moment. Because Every Newborn Deserves the Softest Start.

At MA-MA NYC, we know that raising a child encompasses tremendous responsibilities, but motherhood is also filled with love, nurture, sacrifice, and rewards.

Our baby bamboo clothes are thoughtfully designed by moms who understand what you need—using OEKO-TEX® certified bamboo fabric and GOTS certified organic cotton that’s as soft as your baby’s touch. Every piece combines comfort with practical design, because your baby’s first outfits should be as pure and gentle as the love you wrap them in. Our line of products includes ultra-soft & stretchy fit footies, soft and gentle swaddles, knotted onesies, silky-soft hats, and bows.

When you choose MA-MA NYC, you’re not just picking out baby clothes – you’re joining a community of moms who support each other through every sleepless night, every first giggle, and every new beginning. Because when we lift each other up, motherhood becomes even more beautiful.

Bodysuits vs. Onesies – What’s the Difference?

If you are confused about what a bodysuit is and what’s a onesie - you’re not alone. These words are frequently used interchangeably, but there is a small difference in terms of design.

A bodysuit is the general term for a one-piece baby garment that covers the torso, extends below the waist, and fastens at the crotch, preventing it from riding up. A closure like this helps keep diapers in place and their tummies covered and warm. They can have short sleeves, long sleeve, or no sleeves at all. Other names include – snappie, singlet, creeper, snapsuit, and baby grow.

A onesie®, on the other hand, is actually a term referring to infant bodysuit, trademarked by Gerber Childrenswear, a well-known American manufacturer and a trusted name in baby food and wardrobe essentials. In 1982, Gerber invented the Onesies® bodysuit, which quickly became a favorite baby garment due to its practicality and ease of use.

Bodysuits are incredibly popular due to their versatility. They are perfect for layering or wearing as standalone pieces, and they come in a variety of necklines and sleeve lengths. Suitable for year-round wear, bodysuits are adaptable to any temperature. Regardless of what you call them, these essential clothing items are a lifesaver for moms. They keep your little one comfortable, cozy, and easy to change with just a few snaps.

How Many Bodysuits/Onesies Do I Need?

Infants are tiny, but they go through a lot of different outfits a day due to spit-ups, diaper leaks, and other messes that come with newborn life. Since bodysuits (or onesies) are basic, fundamental parts of newborns’ wardrobe, you will need at least 5 to 7 bodysuits to comfortably go through the day (and night). They can be worn under everything - footies, vests, cardigans, and swaddles, so prepare a good stash before the baby arrives.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

5 – 7 bodysuits (Bare essentials) – This is a good starting point if you want to do laundry every day (or every other day).
7 – 10 bodysuits (Moderate) – If you are doing laundry 2 or 3 times a week.
10 – 14 bodysuits (Generous) – If you prefer having more options, while doing the laundry once or twice a week, opt for 10 or more onesies.

Onesie vs. Romper vs. Jumpsuit

Onesies, rompers, and jumpsuits may look similar, but they all serve a different purpose.

Onesie – A basic, lightweight, one-piece outfit that covers the torso and fastens with snaps at the crotch. It usually has short sleeves or long sleeves but has no legs.
Romper – A one piece garment meant to be worn on its own. Typically, it has short sleeves and short legs, resembling a shirt and shorts, so it’s a perfect outfit for warm weather.
Jumpsuit – They are a longer version of a romper. They are full coverage pieces that cover the body from neck to toes. They can be made of lightweight fabrics or thicker, cozier fibers, for chilly weather. They can close with snaps, buttons, or zippers, and are designed to be worn by both newborns and older babies and toddlers.

How Many Rompers and Jumpsuits Should I Get?

The exact number of items you’ll need depends on the season, how often you do your laundry, and how often you change the outfits. Keep in mind that rompers are worn in warmer weather, and jumpsuits in cooler weather.

Rompers

3 – 5 rompers (Minimalist) – If you do your laundry often and prefer smaller wardrobe.
5 – 7 rompers (Moderate) – If you do laundry 2 – 3 times a week, this number is enough for each day of the weak, plus a few messes.
7 – 10 rompers (Generous) – For moms who love variety.

Jumpsuits

3 – 4 jumpsuits (Small wardrobe) – Because jumpsuits are typically layered with bodysuits underneath, a 3 to 4 pieces will be enough to get you through the week.
5 – 6 jumpsuits (Moderate) – If you want to change outfits often without daily washes.
7 – 10 jumpsuits (Generous) – Optimal number for cold seasons, when you’ll go through at least one jumpsuit per day.

Dressing Your Baby for Sleep - Footies vs. Pajamas vs. Sleepers

Getting ready for your baby’s arrival includes, among other things, finding proper sleepwear that ensures comfortable, safe, and peaceful sleep. Infants spend quite a lot of time sleeping in the first few months of life, so you’ll need to get enough outfits and accessories to help them rest and sleep well. Quality sleep is extremely important because it supports growth, healthy development (physical, mental, emotional), and well-being, thus paving the way for a happy and healthy life.

There’s nothing sweeter than a freshly bathed baby, all snuggled up in soft pajamas, ready for cuddles. But when it comes to bedtime, you might be asking yourself – Should my baby wear footies, pajamas, or a sleeper? What’s the difference anyway?

The truth is, they are very similar and these terms are used interchangeably, but there are several slight differences. Popular terms that denote baby and kids sleepwear are:

Footies – A footie is a cozy one-piece outfit with built-in or fold over feet that keep little toes warm without socks. It’s perfect for sleep and play, so it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular clothing items among parents.

Lilly bamboo footie and toddler 2-piece pajama by MA-MA NYC.

Pajamas – Pajamas can be one-piece or two-piece item. One-piece is used mostly for newborns, while toddler’s pajamas are typically two piece.
Sleeper – This is general term for sleeping outfit. It may or may not have feet, and comes in various styles – mittens, snaps, Velcro, zippers, etc.
Sleep n play – One-piece outfit, suitable for daywear and sleep time. It’s practical and comfortable; typically made of cotton or bamboo. “Sleep and play” garments come in various styles- with built-in footies, zippers, fold-over mitten cuffs, or safety tabs at the neckline to protect baby’s neck and chin from pinching. Some models have closures at the side – from underarm to ankle, to enable easier tummy time.

As you can see, with so many options, it is not easy to decide which ones to get, but try to follow these guidelines:

Get footies if your baby likes to kick off socks
Get sleepers for more versatility
Get pajamas for older babies and toddlers

How Many Pieces of Sleepwear Does a Newborn Need?

When preparing sleepwear for your infant, keep in mind that you need to have enough garments to keep your baby warm and comfortable while you handle all the diaper changes and laundry.

As a reminder here is what we recommend:

3 – 5 pieces (Minimalist) – If you plan on doing the laundry every day, this is a good start. Pick various styles for more versatility (footies, pajamas, sleepers)
5 – 7 pieces (Moderate) – A 5 to 7 footies or ‘sleep and plays’ will offer more flexibility. You won’t have to do the laundry that often and you’ll still have enough fresh outfits.
8 – 10 pieces (generous) – If you want to have peace of mind and lots of options, without having to wash every other day, get 8 to 10 pieces.

Knotted Gown vs. Swaddle vs. Sleep Sack

Many expectant moms are also confused about swaddles and knotted gowns and which one would be better for their baby. While they appear similar, they have different purposes.

A swaddle is a blanket used to wrap the baby. swaddles are designed to be snug and restrict movement, mimicking the feeling of being in the womb, which helps soothe and calm newborns. They are typically used for babies until they are 3 to 6 months old. For safety reasons, swaddles should only be used until the baby shows the first signs of rolling over. However, swaddles can serve multiple purposes beyond just swaddling, extending their usefulness. They can be used as a breastfeeding cover, towel, diaper change mat, play mat, blanket, or car seat cover.

A knotted gown is a one-piece sleeper, designed to be worn by preemies and newborns for the first few months of their lives. It’s soft, comfortable, and very practical. The top reason to buy a knotted gown is its ease of use – it allows you to simply untie and lift the bottom end to change the diaper without disturbing the baby during sleep. They come in many adorable patterns and styles, making them ideal outfit for first pictures and special occasions.

Knotted gown with matching hat by MA-MA NYC

A sleep sack, also known as wearable blanket, keeps your baby warm at night without restricting the arms. It’s shaped like a pouch and worn like a bodysuit, giving them the freedom to move while staying warm. A sleep sack does not cover the face or neck and it does not pose risks of suffocation or entanglement, providing a safe sleeping environment. It can be used from day one, although many parents opt to use them after the baby has transitioned out of a swaddle or a knotted onesie, typically between 2 and 5 months old. Sleep sacks can also be used for preemies to toddlers up to a size 5T (pants-style legs). Choose breathable, natural materials like organic cotton and bamboo, and features like shoulder snaps, wide necklines, and zippers for ease of use.

Important note about safety: According to American Academy of Pediatrics sleep safe recommendations, it’s not safe to use weighted sleep sacks, weighted swaddles, weighted clothing or weighted objects on or near the baby.

How Many Pieces Do I Need?

The exact number will depend on your baby’s growth and lifestyle, but it’s best to get at least 3-5 pieces of either one of them to ensure you always have clean options, especially in the beginning when you’re still adjusting to the new motherhood role. For more flexibility, opt for 4 -6 pieces.

From the moment they’re born until about 3 months old, babies need a minimum of 2 – 3 outfits per day, depending on factors like spit-up, blowouts, and other unexpected messes. Because they spend most of their time sleeping, they will need plenty of soft and comfortable sleepwear.

Things to consider:

How often you do laundry
Babies with special medical needs (skin conditions, reflux) need frequent changes
Consider climate and season to determine whether you need lighter or warmer materials
If you lead a more active lifestyle, and plan to go out and travel frequently, you may want to get more items

Confused No More: Choose Baby Clothes with Confidence

Terminology of baby clothing can seem ambiguous because the differences between certain pieces of clothing are very subtle and hard to notice at first. In this article, we’ve summarized commonly confused and most miscomprehended baby clothing words to help you understand the differences and easily decide which items to put on your ‘baby registry’ or ‘to buy’ list. By now, you should know that swaddles, knotted gowns, and sleep sacks are all used for sleeping, but they all have different purposes and effects. Both footies and pajamas are sleepwear, but one has feet and the other is mostly used for older babies and toddlers. A bodysuit is the same as onesie. Finally, rompers are cute toddler outfits with short sleeves and legs, while jumpsuits covers the entire body, from neck to toe.

As you have seen from this article, how you dress your baby plays a big role in their safety and healthy development – and your peace of mind, too! Prioritize items that are safe, simple to put on and take off, and easy to clean. Share the joy of this special time and above all, celebrate every moment of dressing your little one.

Terms Explained:

Bodysuit: A versatile, one-piece baby garment that covers the torso and fastens at the crotch, preventing it from riding up and keeping diapers secure. It comes in various sleeve lengths and necklines.

Versatility: Bodysuits are adaptable for layering or wearing alone, suitable for any temperature, and essential for keeping babies comfortable and easy to change.

Onesie: A lightweight, one-piece outfit that covers the torso and fastens at the crotch, typically without legs.

Romper: A one-piece garment with short sleeves and legs, resembling a shirt and shorts, ideal for warm weather.

Jumpsuit: A full-coverage piece extending from neck to toes, suitable for cooler weather, with fastenings like snaps, buttons, or zippers.

Footies: Cozy one-piece outfits with built-in feet, perfect for both sleep and play.

Pajamas: Sleepwear that can be a one-piece for newborns or a two-piece for toddlers.

Sleeper: A general term for sleeping outfits, which may include feet and come in various styles.

Sleep n Play: A practical one-piece outfit suitable for both daywear and sleep, featuring convenient design elements.

Swaddle: A blanket used to wrap babies snugly, mimicking the womb, and used until the baby starts rolling over.

Knotted Gown: A one-piece sleeper designed for easy diaper changes, often used for first pictures.

Sleep Sack: A wearable blanket providing a safe sleeping environment, used from day one.

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