One of the first decisions parents make while shopping for newborn clothes is choosing the right style of jabla. While both button jablas and knot jablas are popular choices, many first-time parents are unsure which one is more practical for their baby.
The truth is that there isn't a single "best" option for every family. Both styles are designed to keep newborns comfortable, but each offers different advantages depending on your baby's age, your daily routine and your personal preference.
In this guide, we'll compare button jablas and knot jablas in detail to help you choose the right option for your newborn.
What Is a Jabla?
A jabla is a lightweight upper garment designed specifically for newborn babies. Unlike regular T-shirts, jablas usually open at the front or side, making dressing and changing much easier.
They are commonly made from breathable fabrics such as muslin cotton and are widely used during a baby's first few months.
If you're new to newborn shopping, start with our complete guide to choosing muslin jablas for newborn babies.
Parents can also browse Kiids Kingdom's collection of muslin jablas for everyday newborn wear.
What Is a Button Jabla?
A button jabla has buttons running down the front, allowing the garment to open completely before dressing the baby.
This design is one of the most commonly used styles because it is quick to put on and remove.
Advantages of Button Jablas
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Easy to fasten
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Quick during diaper changes
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Convenient for first-time parents
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Available in sleeveless and half-sleeve designs
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Suitable for everyday use
Things to Check
Before purchasing a button jabla, inspect:
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Securely stitched buttons
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Smooth button edges
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Comfortable neckline
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Soft inner placket
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Strong stitching
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No loose threads
Buttons should always be checked after washing to ensure they remain securely attached.
What Is a Knot Jabla?
A knot jabla uses soft fabric ties instead of buttons. The ties are usually placed on the front or side of the garment and are secured with simple knots.
This style has been used in Indian households for generations because it provides a soft fastening without hard accessories.
Parents looking for traditional newborn clothing can explore Kiids Kingdom's knot jabla collection.
Advantages of Knot Jablas
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Soft fabric fastenings
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Slightly adjustable fit
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Gentle around the chest
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Easy side opening
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Traditional design preferred by many families
Things to Check
Look for:
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Strongly stitched ties
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Short fabric strings
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Smooth seams
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Proper overlap at the opening
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Comfortable armholes
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Adequate room around the chest
Avoid ties that are excessively long or loosely stitched.
Button Jabla vs Knot Jabla: Side-by-Side Comparison
|
Feature |
Button Jabla |
Knot Jabla |
|
Fastening |
Buttons |
Fabric ties |
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Ease of dressing |
Very quick |
Slightly slower |
|
Adjustability |
Fixed |
Slight adjustment possible |
|
Hard components |
Buttons |
No hard fasteners |
|
Traditional appearance |
Modern |
Traditional |
|
Washing |
Check buttons regularly |
Check fabric ties regularly |
|
Best for |
Daily quick changes |
Parents who prefer tie closures |
Both designs are suitable when they are well made and correctly sized.
Which Is Easier During Diaper Changes?
Frequent diaper changes are part of daily life with a newborn.
Button jablas usually allow parents to open and close the garment quickly, making them convenient during busy routines.
Knot jablas may take a little longer because each tie needs to be secured again. However, many parents become comfortable with this style after a few days of use.
If speed is your priority, button jablas may feel easier.
If you prefer a simple fabric fastening, knot jablas are an excellent alternative.
Which Style Is More Comfortable?
Comfort depends on much more than the fastening.
Parents should pay attention to:
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Fabric quality
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Stitching
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Neck opening
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Sleeve opening
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Overall fit
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Seam placement
A poorly stitched button jabla will be less comfortable than a well-made knot jabla, and vice versa.
Choose garments made from lightweight muslin cotton with smooth inner seams.
Read our guide on why muslin clothes are the best choice for newborn babies in India to understand why fabric selection is equally important.
Which Is Better for Summer?
During India's warm weather, lightweight clothing is usually preferred.
Both button and knot jablas work well when made from breathable muslin cotton.
Parents should choose:
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Sleeveless or half-sleeve styles
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Loose-fitting garments
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Lightweight fabrics
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Comfortable layering according to room temperature
The fastening style has less impact on comfort than the fabric and fit.
Which Is Better for First-Time Parents?
Many first-time parents appreciate button jablas because they are straightforward to fasten.
However, knot jablas also become easy to use after a little practice.
If you're preparing your baby's first wardrobe, having both styles allows you to discover which one fits your routine better.
Which Style Lasts Longer?
Durability depends on construction quality and proper care.
For button jablas:
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Inspect buttons regularly.
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Replace the garment if a button becomes loose.
For knot jablas:
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Check that the ties remain securely stitched.
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Avoid pulling the ties too tightly.
Following the washing instructions will help both styles last longer.
How Many Button and Knot Jablas Should You Buy?
A practical newborn wardrobe may include six to ten jablas.
A balanced combination could be:
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Four button jablas
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Four knot jablas
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Two additional backup jablas
The exact number depends on:
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Laundry frequency
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Weather
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Number of daily clothing changes
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Travel plans
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Whether reusable nappies are used
Parents preparing for delivery can also explore Kiids Kingdom's newborn combo packs and hospital baby kits.
Tips for Choosing the Right Jabla
Regardless of the fastening style, always check:
Fabric
Choose soft, breathable muslin cotton suitable for everyday wear.
Stitching
Inspect the inside of the garment for rough seams and loose threads.
Size
Use the brand's size chart rather than choosing only by age.
Neckline
The neckline should be comfortable and not tight.
Fastenings
Buttons should be secure, while fabric ties should be firmly stitched and easy to use.
Washing Instructions
Choose jablas that are easy to wash and suitable for regular use.
Should You Buy Only One Style?
No.
Most parents find it useful to keep both button and knot jablas in their baby's wardrobe.
Button jablas are convenient for quick changes, while knot jablas offer a simple traditional design with soft fabric closures.
Trying both styles allows you to decide which works best for your baby's daily routine.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a button jabla and a knot jabla doesn't have to be difficult. Both styles are designed to make dressing a newborn easier while keeping your baby comfortable.
Instead of focusing only on the fastening, pay attention to the overall quality of the garment. Soft muslin fabric, smooth stitching, a comfortable fit and secure construction are far more important than whether the jabla uses buttons or ties.
For most parents, the ideal solution is to keep a combination of both styles. This gives you flexibility during daily clothing changes and helps you discover which design works best for your baby.
Explore Kiids Kingdom's range of muslin jablas, including both button and knot styles, designed to provide comfort for newborn babies in every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a button jabla better than a knot jabla?
Neither style is universally better. Button jablas are quick to fasten, while knot jablas offer soft fabric ties and slight adjustability. The best choice depends on your preference and your baby's comfort.
Are knot jablas safe for newborn babies?
Yes, when the ties are securely stitched, properly tied and not excessively long. Always inspect the garment before each use.
Which jabla is easier for first-time parents?
Many parents find button jablas easier initially because they close quickly. Others prefer the simplicity of fabric ties. Both styles become easy to use with practice.
Can I use both button and knot jablas?
Yes. Many families keep a mix of both styles to suit different situations and personal preferences.
How many jablas should I buy before my baby is born?
Six to ten jablas are usually a practical starting point, depending on how often you plan to wash clothes.
Which fabric is best for button and knot jablas?
Lightweight muslin cotton is a popular choice because it is breathable, comfortable and suitable for India's climate.

