Bonnets Or Hats

Just like infant booties, baby hats are the kind of accessory that have inspired artists and fashion mavens alike to come up with newer and more provocative models. While the basic infant hats are little more than oversized socks – or undersigned beanies – that are put over a newborn’s head immediately after birth to prevent vital body heat from escaping, later on there are infant cowboy hats, baby derby hats, baby bonnets, and knit baby hats to keep baby in step with fashion.

Yet did you know that bonnets/hats and other head coverings are actually a good idea for the little ones? Within reason, a baby hat fulfills a host of vital functions, such as keeping the little one’s head warm, while at the same time protecting it from debris and insects. In summer, bonnets/hats and other infant head coverings will protect the sensitive skin of the scalp from direct sunlight – and thus sunburn – while the brim will help to protect the eyes from the rays of the sun as well.

If you are ready to go shopping, keep in mind that some bonnets/hats are more ornamental than functional. To be considered truly functional, a baby sun hat needs to be washable, since it comes in contact with sweat, sunscreen, and probably also sand and other dirt. Similarly, for those who like the idea of a baby bonnet hanky, keep in mind that the corners may not be as easily stretched over your baby’s head as the more functional bonnets/hats.

While cute and handsome, baby cowboy hats are more ornamental and may be used during dress up play or for photo opportunities, but by and large they have little value as one of the bonnets/hats for daily wear, simply because they are not easily cleaned. Free knit baby hats may be available from baby supply stores when you sign up for their baby registry, and knitting patterns for baby hats as well as fabric pattern for baby bonnet making may be downloaded from the Internet. Once again, these – as well as crochet baby hats – are usually more ornamental than functional and while a free pattern for handkerchief baby bonnet making may be tempting, keep in mind that a solidly made baby hat that fulfills the basic functions of shielding head and eyes, as well as being easily washable will be more useful than any head covering that has copious ribbons and snaps attached.