Newborn babies need all the protection they can get, especially when it comes to cold weather. Socks help keep their feet warm while they sleep, play or crawl - and protect their sensitive skin from rough surfaces and other objects that might cause them irritation. And if your little one is on the move, consider anti-slip socks to keep them safe from falls and injuries while they learn how to walk.
But not all baby socks are created equal, and some are better than others at meeting your infant’s specific needs. When shopping for baby socks, look for the following features to ensure your newborn’s comfort:
The number one choice for all types of newborn baby clothes including socks is cotton. This all-natural material is breathable, soft and absorbent – all important qualities for your baby’s delicate skin. When choosing cotton socks, look for a high yarn count and extra-long staple, which will create a smoother fabric that’s touchably soft on your baby’s feet. You might also consider choosing brushed cotton, which is even softer and more gentle. Cotton is often blended with other fabrics like wool, silk and nylon to increase the durability of the sock and to allow it to stretch. When selecting a blend, make sure to pay attention to the percentage of spandex (elastic fiber) or Lycra used – too much can lead to loose socks that fall off easily, while too little won’t provide enough stretch for your baby’s feet.
When a sock is made, the fabric is first knitted into a tube and then closed with a toe seam. When selecting socks for your newborn, look for seamless toe seams to prevent abrasions to your baby’s feet. Also, choose socks with double rib stitching, which is more durable and won’t leave a mark on your baby’s toes when they’re worn.
The final feature to consider when purchasing baby socks is the sock’s size. You want to be sure that your baby’s socks aren’t too tight – this can limit circulation, interfere with normal foot development and result in red lines on the feet known as sock line hyperpigmentation. On the other hand, you don’t want your baby’s socks to be too loose, as this can cause chafing and rubbing of your baby’s sensitive feet and ankles.
Baby socks are an essential part of your newborn’s wardrobe, providing all-important protection while they explore their world and hit important milestones. They can be paired with long-sleeve onesies and velboa booties during the day and comfortable footed pajamas at night for a restful sleep. Be sure to shop our selection of terry and cotton baby socks, including special preemie sizing for the tiny feet of your newest addition. And when it’s time to wash, be sure to check out our merino wool baby socks for gentle care that will stay fresh after multiple washes.