Quick answer: A newborn bonnet ties under the chin and covers the ears, making it more secure than a beanie for prams and photos. Size by head circumference — most newborns are 13–14 inches. Use cotton or bamboo in warm weather and merino in winter, and always remove any hat before the baby sleeps.
Bonnets have quietly overtaken beanies as the newborn hat of choice — partly because they stay on, and partly because they photograph beautifully.
Here is how to size a newborn bonnet, which materials suit which season, and the safety rules that apply to any baby hat. 🧣
Bonnet vs Beanie: Newborn Bonnet
| Bonnet | Beanie | |
|---|---|---|
| Stays on | Yes, ties under the chin | Often pushed off |
| Ear coverage | Full | Partial to full |
| Photos | Softer, more classic | More casual |
| Under a pram hood | Excellent | Good |
| Quick to put on | Slightly slower | Faster |
| Warmth | Very good | Good |
Choose a bonnet for prams, walks and photographs; a beanie for quick indoor warmth and for older babies who pull hats off.
Sizing
Bonnets are sized by head circumference. Measure around the widest part of the head, just above the ears.
| Age | Head circumference | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Preemie | 11–12 in | Preemie |
| Newborn | 13–14 in | Newborn / 0–3 m |
| 3–6 months | 15–16 in | 3–6 m |
| 6–12 months | 17–18 in | 6–12 m |
The fit should be snug but not tight. You should be able to slide one finger under the edge easily. A bonnet that leaves a deep mark on the forehead is too small.
Ties should be long enough to knot loosely under the chin with a couple of inches to spare — but never long enough to wrap around the neck.
Materials by Season
Spring and Summer
- Cotton — breathable, washable, the default choice.
- Bamboo — silky, temperature-regulating, good for sensitive skin.
- Muslin — very light, good for shade rather than warmth.
- Linen blend — breathable and photographs beautifully.
Autumn and Winter
- Merino wool — warm, breathable and soft enough for newborn skin.
- Cashmere blend — the premium gift option.
- Knitted cotton — warm without the itch of coarse wool.
- Fleece-lined — for very cold climates only; check for overheating.
Avoid coarse wool directly against newborn skin, and anything with loose fibres that could be inhaled. If a knit sheds when you rub it, do not use it on a newborn.
Safety
- Remove hats for sleep. Babies regulate temperature through the head; a hat in the cot is an overheating and suffocation risk.
- No long ties. Ties should knot under the chin with a small tail, nothing more.
- No loose pompoms, buttons or beads that can detach.
- Check for overheating — feel the back of the neck; if it is damp, remove the hat.
- Take it off indoors once the baby is settled and warm.
- Never leave a bonnet on an unsupervised sleeping baby, including in a car seat or pram.
The one exception is the first few hours after birth, where hospitals often use a hat to help a newborn stabilise temperature — that is supervised, and different from home sleep.
Styles
- Classic pointed bonnet — the traditional shape; the most photographed.
- Rounded / pixie bonnet — softer, modern.
- Ribbed knit bonnet — neutral and unisex.
- Ruffle-edge bonnet — a girl-shower favourite.
- Bear-ear bonnet — playful, very popular for photos.
- Lace-trim bonnet — heirloom style, often used for christenings.
- Personalised bonnet with an embroidered name.
For newborn photography, cream, oatmeal and soft sage photograph better than white, which can blow out under bright light.
Care
- Wash before first wear to remove finishing chemicals.
- Hand wash or use a delicates bag — ties tangle and stretch in a machine.
- Cool water for wool and cashmere; warm shrinks them immediately.
- Dry flat to keep the shape; hanging stretches the ties.
- Do not tumble dry knitted bonnets.
- Store flat rather than folded at the crown.
As a Gift
Bonnets make excellent shower gifts because they are inexpensive, universally useful and photograph well in the gift pile. To make it a complete gift:
- Buy 0–3 months rather than newborn size.
- Choose a seasonal material for when the baby will actually be that size.
- Pair with matching mittens or booties.
- Add a personalised version for the keepsake element.
- Include washing instructions with wool or cashmere.
Keep Planning
Frequently Asked Questions
What size bonnet does a newborn need?
Most newborns have a head circumference of 13 to 14 inches and take a newborn or 0 to 3 month size. Measure around the widest part of the head just above the ears – you should be able to slide one finger under the edge.
Are bonnets better than beanies for newborns?
For prams, walks and photographs, yes – a bonnet ties under the chin so it stays on and covers the ears fully. Beanies are quicker to put on and fine for short indoor use.
Can a newborn sleep in a bonnet?
No. Hats should be removed before sleep, as babies regulate temperature through their head and a hat in the cot is an overheating and suffocation risk. This applies in prams and car seats too.
What material is best for a newborn bonnet?
Cotton or bamboo for spring and summer, merino wool or knitted cotton for autumn and winter. Avoid coarse wool against newborn skin and any knit that sheds fibres.
How do you wash a knitted baby bonnet?
Hand wash in cool water or use a delicates bag, then dry flat to keep the shape. Never tumble dry knitted bonnets, and use cool water for wool and cashmere as warm water shrinks them.
Measure the head, buy 0–3 months, choose cotton for summer and merino for winter — and take it off before the baby sleeps.
For more first-year picks, see our newborn must-haves. 💕
