Osteopathy and childhood: what are the benefits to support your child's development?
5 July 2026
The early years of life are an extraordinary period of discovery, learning and change.
The bodysuit baby is the item of clothing most worn by infants — often several times a day. Seemingly simple, it nevertheless conceals many variations: short or long sleeves, poppers at the front or between the legs, organic or standard cotton, the right size or too big. This guide helps you to choose the best baby vests and build a coherent wardrobe from birth. 👶
This is the standard baby onesie — it fastens between the legs with press studs. Advantage: it stays securely in place and covers the tummy, preventing draughts. It can be put on over the head or through the neck. This is the most common style for ages 0 to 18 months.
The pressure points are positioned on the shoulder rather than the neck, making it possible to put on and take off the bodysuit without having to pull it over the head. Ideal for newborns whose heads are still fragile, or for babies who don’t like having clothes put on over their heads.
It opens completely at the front like a kimono — nothing to pull over the head. The most practical solution for the first few days of life when the baby is still tiny and their umbilical cord is present. Ideal for the maternity ward.
Baby sizes bodysuit generally follow the guide below:
Advice Don't buy too many newborn-size clothes — babies grow very fast. Focus your shopping on 3-month and 6-month sizes.
The benchmark for fragile infant skin. Organic cotton is grown without pesticides or chemical products, and OEKO-TEX certification guarantees the absence of harmful substances in the final fabric. Soft, breathable, hypoallergenic — it is the prime choice for babies with sensitive skin.
A heavier and softer knitted cotton than classic jersey. Very comfortable, it retains warmth well for the transitional seasons.
Ultra-soft, naturally thermoregulating and antibacterial. Excellent for babies who sweat a lot or have sensitive skin. Slightly more expensive but very popular with parents.
Pure synthetics (polyester, acrylic) that do not breathe. Always check the composition — a «soft» bodysuit may contain 30% of polyester, which can cause irritation over time.
The question every parent asks themselves before birth. Here is a realistic basis:
Plan for a mix: 60% short-sleeved tops + 40% long-sleeved tops, depending on the season of birth.
A baby onesie with the baby’s name printed or embroidered on it is one of the most popular new baby gifts. Original, useful (unlike many birth gifts) and unique. You can find specialised printers online, or babygrows that can be personalised directly.
For more original new-born gift ideas, check out our full selection: 21 birth gift ideas that are truly appreciated.
Generally speaking, yes — the bodysuit protects the skin from the suit’s seams and zips, and acts as a base layer that regulates body temperature. In summer, when it’s very hot, the suit on its own (or even just the base layer) may be enough.
The necklines of baby bodysuits are designed to widen thanks to the shoulder straps. The collar on the bodysuit folds downwards and forwards, allowing it to be removed by sliding it down rather than pulling it up over the head — useful if there’s poo on the back, to avoid getting the face any dirtier.
Most babies wear bodysuits until they are 18–24 months old, or sometimes up to 3 years for long-sleeved styles. After that, children usually move on to T-shirts and standard tops. The bodysuit remains practical whilst your baby is still in nappies — it stays in place well and prevents the top from riding up.
Metal press studs are more durable and withstand repeated washing better. Check that they are treated to prevent rust and that they do not contain nickel (a potential allergen). Plastic press studs are lighter but can wear out faster.
Short-sleeved, long-sleeved or sleeveless bodysuits made from soft cotton — PetitMaxou offers a selection of practical and comfortable bodysuits for your baby’s first few months. Available in a range of colours and sizes. Free delivery throughout the EU.
→ See all PetitMaxou baby bodysuits
Baby clothes are worn for a short time but bought in large quantities. A few ideas for a more sustainable approach:
To dress baby intelligently from head to toe, also check out our guide on how to dress baby in summer — temperatures, fabrics and summer wardrobe essentials.
The early years of life are an extraordinary period of discovery, learning and change.
Baby sunscreen is one of the summer essentials for young parents —