The Perfect Going-Home Outfit for Baby

Bringing your baby home for the first time is a moment you never forget.

The outfit they wear that day becomes part of the story: captured in photos, folded away in keepsake boxes, remembered years later. That’s why choosing a going-home outfit feels so special, and sometimes a little overwhelming.

As a mother of five, I’ve packed more than a few hospital bags. Over time, I’ve learned that the best going-home outfits (and hospital essentials) are not about excess — they’re about comfort, simplicity, and intention.

What Is a Going-Home Outfit?

A going-home outfit is the clothing your baby wears when leaving the hospital for the very first time.

Traditionally, it should be:

Soft and gentle on newborn skin
Easy to put on and take off
Comfortable in a car seat
Timeless enough to look beautiful years from now

European going-home outfits are designed with all of this in mind — which is why they’re often saved long after that first day.

Choosing the Right Going-Home Outfit

Fabric Comes First

Look for natural, breathable materials:

Cotton
Soft knits
Lightweight wool blends for cooler months

Newborn skin is delicate, and comfort should always lead the decision.

Design Matters More Than Trends

The best going-home outfits:

Button up or snap easily
Don’t need to go over the head
Allow room for diapers
Feel soft inside and out

Simple silhouettes and neutral tones age beautifully in photos and in memory. Here is a selection of going home sets worthy of this occasion.

Sizing Tip (Very Important)

If your baby is expected to weigh under 8.5 lbs, we recommend choosing size 0M / newborn for the going-home outfit. European sizing is more precise and designed to fit closer to baby’s actual size.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Baby (Real-Life Essentials)

Over the years, we’ve curated a list of hospital must-haves — many of which we keep easily accessible through a dedicated Amazon list for moms who want simplicity.

Here’s what we recommend packing for baby:

Baby Basics: Mittens, beanie/ bonnet, socks and 3-4 newborn onesies
2 receiving blankets
Going-home outfit
(Size 0M if baby is under 8.5 lbs, Size 1M if you expect the baby to weigh 8.5lbs or more)
2–3 pajamas
Newborn diapers
Pacifier & pacifier holder (if you plan on using it)
Burp cloths
Car seat (required to leave the hospital)
Formula and bibs, if required by your hospital

Sets vs Individual Pieces

Many European going-home outfits come as coordinated sets:

Knit top and bloomer
Footed knit sets
Babysuits with bonnets

These create a complete look without extra styling and are often designed to be worn again at home.

A Note From Me

Some of my children’s going-home outfits are still carefully folded away.

Not because they were expensive — but because they marked the beginning of everything. That’s what makes this choice meaningful. Make sure to pick an outfit you will feel comfortable seeing in pictures in the future. I always recommend going for neutral palettes (ivory, white, grey) or classic baby colors (baby blue, baby pink or baby yellow).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the going-home outfit be worn again?
Absolutely. Many going-home outfits are designed for everyday comfort, not just one moment.
That said, if you choose size 0M or 1M, you’ll typically get about a month of wear before it’s time to size up, depending on your baby’s growth.

Do these make good gifts?

They’re some of the most thoughtful gifts you can give a new family member. However, many parents prefer to choose the going-home outfit themselves.

If you’re unsure, we recommend:

A personalized name blanket (a keepsake you can never go wrong with), or
A gift card, allowing parents to select what feels right for their baby.

What size should I buy if I don’t know the baby’s weight?

If you’re unsure, size 0M is often the safest option for girls and size 1M for boys. European sizing is more precise, and sizing up allows for a bit more flexibility without overwhelming a newborn.

Should I bring more than one outfit to the hospital?

Yes, we always recommend packing at least one backup outfit, especially if you’re staying more than one night. Babies can have unexpected messes, and having an extra option provides peace of mind.

Are European going-home outfits comfortable for car seats?

Yes. Most European designs are soft, flexible, and not overly bulky, making them suitable for car seat use. Avoid stiff layers or thick embellishments, and prioritize soft knits and breathable fabrics.

About the Author
Ani Certain is the founder and creative director of El Rincón de María, an online boutique dedicated to timeless European children’s clothing. A mother of five, Ani curates each collection with real life, comfort, and meaningful moments in mind.

The Perfect Going-Home Outfit: A Mom’s Guide (From Hospital to Home)