It seems obvious, but as a new mom, I’ve found daily laundry become a very real thing, and not just for baby clothes and linens like you might think. Your own clothes will bear the brunt of many baby mishaps as well. Yes, I’m talking pee, poop, throw-up, runny nose, sticky fingers, so on, and so forth. With that in mind, it’s crucial to create a capsule wardrobe of sorts with easy-care fabrics that you can throw in the washer while you move on to more important things.
Unfortunately, not all fabrics are created equal. That said, it’s more important than ever to start checking the tags of all that you’re planning on buying (plus what’s already in your closet), especially in the first years of motherhood. It’s vital that you always read the care instructions of the pieces you’re considering purchasing so that you can make sure that they are made of a fabric that can be easily washed when the need arises. “Dry clean only” just means one more errand to run, and “hand wash only” means one more chore to add to the list. Your time is limited, so being mindful of the care instructions is one great way to make the most of it.
To help guide you with this new chapter of your life, we broke down some of the key fabrics you should incorporate into your closet. Think cottons, linens, and more. Make sure to also shop our top picks for each type below.
1. Cotton
This classic white button-down makes for a super-easy look that's breastfeeding-friendly.
Step up your pants game with this cool tie-waist pair.
There is nothing like a black tee. Wear this with everything from jeans to your favorite skirt.
Elevate your casual look with these high-waisted pants. Pair with a tee or button-down shirt.
Got milk on your top? Clean it up quickly with our pick: LG's large-capacity washer/dryer TurboWash. Give big loads the same great clean while cutting your wash time by up to 30 minutes so you can get back to mom duties.
2. Denim
Every closet needs a great denim shirt. We love the effortless feel of this pick.
These vintage-inspired jeans are a no-brainer for any closet, new mom or not.
Switch up your usual blue denim top with this dark option. Wear with white denim for a contrasting look or pair with a floral skirt.
Coming in under $100, these jeans are a major must-have. They're guaranteed to bring your denim collection to the next level.
3. Linen
This linen shirt can be worn year-round. They look great with jeans, a denim skirt, or cool denim cutoffs.
We are obsessed with this trendy pair of pants, especially the striped belt and slouchy fit.
Have a little fun with this flirty polka-dot top, which can always be thrown in the wash after any unexpected spills. Done and done.
Cozy up in bed with these luxe pajamas, which make night feedings just a little easier.
4. Polyester/Polyester Blends
How cool is this polka-dot dress with tie details? Perfect for feeling a bit more dressed up.
The shoulder details are great for subtly incorporating the current '80s-inspired trend.
Animal-print midi skirts are a major obsession of ours lately.
Whether for lounging or working out, why not try these stylish leggings?
For more on the magic of fabric selection, check out these fabric options that make any outfit look more expensive.
-
This Is About to Be 2025's Most Controversial Shoe TrendAre you in, or are you out?
-
7 Outfit Formulas I'll Never Wear Again (and 7 I'm Wearing on Repeat)You live and you learn.
-
I'm a Mom Now—5 Practical Outfits That Are Actually CuteBecause cool mom isn't an oxymoron.
-
Don't Forget About Your Mom Friends! The 38 Best Gifts for Parents, Kids, and FamiliesTrust me.
-
7 Things Fashion People Always Wear to Football GamesThis is timely.
-
The Cool Aunt Approved Back-to-School Clothes That Look Cute on Every Pre-K KidThese pieces are so fun to mix and match.
-
Goodbye, Stains—These 30 ChicReplica Store Pieces Are Stylish and Easy to CleanPlus my go-to stain-removing duo.
-
I'm an F1-Obsessed Fashion Editor—Here's Everything I Wore to the Miami GPFormula One, meet fashion.
