Wrapped in Love: The Tradition of Hand-Me-Downs for Newborns

In Indian culture, particularly in Hindu traditions, babies are often adorned in garments that have been worn by an older sibling or another family member. Since the "Chhathi" ceremony, a major religious milestone, is performed on the sixth day after birth, many elders advise delaying changing the baby's clothes until then.
This may appear to be just another custom at first, but it has deep
While the practice is rooted in tradition, science also provides compelling reasons why dressing a newborn in old clothes might be beneficial:
Shielding Them from Harmful Germs – New clothes from the store may have been exposed to dust, bacteria, and even harsh chemicals during manufacturing, packaging, and transportation. Since a newborn’s immune system is still developing, they are highly vulnerable to infections.
Freshly bought cotton fabrics are often stiff and coated with chemical residues from the dyeing process. These can cause rashes, irritation, or allergic reactions on a baby’s ultra-sensitive skin. Clothes that have been washed a few times are much softer and safer.
Improved Comfort & Absorption Pre-owned cotton clothing absorbs perspiration and urine better than new clothing, keeping the infant comfortable and dry. The infant will always feel comfortable because to the softer, more breathable texture.
In Indian homes, this activity has profound emotional and spiritual meaning that goes beyond science:
Many believe that dressing a baby in old clothes shields them from negative energy and unwanted attention. Bright, new outfits might attract too much notice, which some consider inauspicious for a newborn.
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about wrapping a baby in clothes that have been worn by an older sibling or a cousin. It’s a silent yet powerful way of passing down warmth, love, and family blessings.
It's a quiet but effective method to transmit family blessings, love, and warmth.
Prior to the rise of modern consumerism, infant garments were painstakingly repurposed and new purchases were considered a luxury. In addition to being cultural, this custom is both economically and environmentally sound.
This tradition is not only culturally significant but also environmentally and economically sound.
You can continue to dress your youngster in new clothes if you'd like, but keep them safe:
Always wash new baby clothes two or three times before putting them on using a gentle detergent.
Choose materials that aren't subjected to harsh chemicals or dyes, such as muslin, pure cotton, or organic materials. Steer clear of synthetic materials like polyester as they may irritate sensitive skin.
Use a baby-safe sanitiser when washing new clothes to remove any leftover chemicals or bacteria.
A Tasteful Blend of Tradition and Science
It is more than just a custom to dress a newborn in old clothes; it is a combination of love, science, and pragmatism. Whether you choose to follow long-standing traditions, protect your baby's delicate skin, or maintain the warmth of hereditary garments, the choice is still highly personal.