Like millions of parents to-be, you have probably spent months in thoughtful preparation to assure your little one has the best of everything. The list may appear never endless, from the perfect crib, bassinet, stroller, and car seat, to baby clothes.

This can be quite a daunting task to say the least. However, with forethought and proper planning, you can be on top of your game and ready for your new baby's arrival.

When deciding on which baby clothes to buy, it is important that the items are not just attractive, but easy to use as well.

These little ones are notorious for spitting up, leaking through super absorbent diapers, and not thinking twice about getting food (or other unmentionables) on the most expensive designer baby fashions. What is a new parent to do?

Although the "cuteness" factor is important, practicality and functionality should be the deciding factors when purchasing baby clothes

Nothing Says Lovin' (or Comfort) Like Cotton

Anyone who has ever touched a newborn's skin will tell you how incredibly soft and delicate it is.

Your baby's skin has not been subjected to the sun or wind nor has it experienced the unfortunate bruises and cuts that come with age. Therefore, it is crucial that it is protected and cared for as much as possible.

Your newborn's skin is (or will be) quite sensitive and tender.

Although a dress or outfit may look adorable on a hanger, spotlighted from above to show off its intricate stitching and stunning design, if made from the wrong materials could cause discomfort to your baby's delicate skin.

When choosing baby clothes, cotton or cotton blends are best. Cotton is ideal for your baby's skin because it is absorbent, comfortable, breathes easily and is made of natural fibers. 100% cotton is ideal for baby clothes, but they often shrink when washed in hot water. Therefore, purchasing baby clothes made mostly of cotton blended with non-shrinking fibers would be best.

Lose the Non-Essentials

You may be unaware, but I want to warn you, babies are sometimes messy, often cranky little individuals. Picture this scenario; you have just dressed your princess in a lovely little designer number.

You are absolutely certain that she will be the center of attention as you proudly push her stroller down the street or bring her to a large family gathering. However, as with all well laid plans, they have a way of going astray.

At times like these, you can rest assured that your little buttercup will have a moment of internal upset. Regardless of which form this takes, the outfit must come off and a new one must be at the ready to take its place. This is where the accessibility of baby clothes is important to make life easy.

When time is of the essence, do you really want to fool with baby clothes with numerous snaps, buttons, belts and buckles?

Not only that, but some babies dislike the dressing routine. These little ones, in a volume that leaves you deaf that someone so tiny can produce sound waves of this size, will let you know in no uncertain terms that they are "just not having it"!

Purchasing baby clothes that are easy to put on and take off is a must. This will help to insure your sanity and make dressing your pride and joy easy and pain free.

If you like to shop, buying baby clothes is an enjoyable "labor of love". Envisioning your baby in each outfit you purchase is one of the many pleasures that go hand-in-hand with parenthood.

However, before choosing a particular item, think about its functionality and practicality in conjunction with its visual appeal. This will insure the perfect fit for your messy, sometimes cranky bundle of joy.