Many expectant parents are superstitious when it comes to preparing for the arrival of their baby. From avoiding buying baby stuff too early to refraining from washing baby clothes on Labor Day, there are numerous beliefs surrounding what is considered bad luck. In this article, we will explore these superstitions and their origins, as well as provide insight into whether there is any truth behind them.
The Origins of Superstitions Surrounding Buying Baby Stuff Early
The origins of this superstition can be traced back to ancient times. In ancient Roman culture, it was believed that babies were extremely vulnerable to evil spirits. As a result, people didn’t want to tempt fate by purchasing anything for the baby until after it was born. Additionally, there was a high mortality rate for both mothers and babies at this time. This led people to believe that if they bought items for the baby too early, they would be tempting fate and potentially causing harm to themselves or their baby. The Romans had ceremonies to protect the baby and mother from evil spirits, which often involved throwing away the baby’s first clothing.
This belief eventually evolved into superstitions about purchasing baby items. In many cultures, these superstitions still exist today. For example, in some regions of Africa, people won’t buy anything for the baby until after the birth. The idea that babies are vulnerable to evil spirits can even be found in Christianity, with the practice of baptizing babies shortly after they are born. Meanwhile, in modern Western cultures, the idea that it is bad luck to buy baby stuff early has been transformed into the belief that it might bring about miscarriage or stillbirth.
Washing Clothes Before Labor Day and the Fear of Labor Coming Early
It can be bad luck to buy baby stuff early, but what about washing it? If you follow the advice of a New England saying, you should avoid washing baby clothes and linens before Labor Day. As with many superstitions, the reasoning behind this saying is unclear. It may be related to a fear of going into labor early. However, there are other interpretations of this superstition.
Some people believe that washing baby clothes before Labor Day is a bad idea because it will bring about early or difficult labor. Meanwhile, others say that washing baby clothes before Labor Day will bring about an unusually cold winter. Another interpretation is that washing baby clothes before Labor Day will bring about thunderstorms or other forms of severe weather. It seems that the only thing everyone agrees on is that washing baby clothes before Labor Day is a bad idea!
The Myth of Washing Baby Clothes on Labor Day
It’s time to debunk a popular myth. The myth states that you shouldn’t wash your baby’s clothes until after Labor Day, as it brings bad luck or will confuse the baby’s spirit. So, do you buy baby stuff early or do you wait until after Labor Day? The answer is simple. Wash baby clothes, buy cribs, and pick up those cute little baby shoes whenever you want. There’s no real evidence supporting this myth, so you can enjoy the peace of mind knowing that you have everything ready for when the baby arrives.
Common Superstitions Related to Pregnancy and Babies
It’s actually fairly common for people to feel like they need to observe certain traditions when they’re pregnant, although many people don’t know where the superstitions come from. Most women don’t even take superstitions into consideration when they’re thinking about having a baby, but they can still be an interesting topic to explore.
Here are a few superstitions often heard related to pregnancy and babies:
1. Baby’s first haircut
One common superstition that you may not have heard of is the idea that a baby’s first haircut should be done by a family member in the home. While the reasons behind this tradition seem to vary depending on who you ask, most people believe that it’s bad luck to take a child to a hair salon before their first birthday.
2. Avoiding pregnant women
This superstition is actually a worldwide phenomenon and isn’t specific to any one culture. It’s not uncommon for people to believe that pregnant women will bring them bad luck or misfortune, which is why there are so many traditions that target expectant mothers specifically.
3. Cravings and baby’s gender
It’s no secret that most women experience cravings during pregnancy, but some people believe your cravings can actually predict the baby’s gender. For example, if you’re craving sweet things while pregnant, you’ll have a girl; if you’re craving salty things, you’ll have a boy.
This is one of those superstitions that can actually vary depending on where you are in the world. In some countries, sweet cravings mean you’re having a boy, while in others, it’s all about the salty snacks.
4. Don’t buy baby stuff early
According to traditional Chinese superstitions, an unfortunate outcome may happen if a baby item was bought too early (before the arrival of the stork). While it may sound ridiculous, some people who are not even Chinese would also observe this rule subconsciously.
A common example would be car seats which parents would acquire weeks before the expected date of delivery. Baby cribs and strollers are also not spared from this rule.
Cultural Differences in Superstitions
As we can see, there are many superstitions regarding pregnancy. Many of them are related to the beginning of it, which may be because reaching the end of the pregnancy was a big challenge in the past. After all, giving birth used to mean having to deal with a lot of pain and, in many cases, even death. Having an early miscarriage was also quite common. Because of all that, for a very long time pregnancy was seen as a very fragile moment in a woman’s life. And so, maybe we shouldn’t be surprised that so many superstitions about it appeared.
But how about the origins of these superstitions? Is there a common denominator among them? These beliefs can arise from many different sources. They can be connected to religious beliefs, but also to logic and science, even though they’re not always accurate. For example, some people believed that if you didn’t hide the pregnancy during the first trimester, the baby might die, which is why it became a widespread superstition that it’s bad luck to buy baby stuff early.
But superstitions can also be connected to folklore or simple myths. This is the case for the superstition that washing in Labor Day will dirty a baby who’s about to be born. This is another belief that is very common in Portugal. If you ask a Portuguese pregnant woman if she believes in it, she’s more likely than not to say yes! Nowadays people know that this is just a legend, but it is actually still a widely accepted one, especially by elder women.
Debunking Superstitions with Logical Explanations
Most superstitions originate from beliefs of ancient civilizations which were passed down through generation to generation. But now that we have the privilege of living in the age of technology and science, we may – for the most part – debunk these superstitions with logical explanations.
“Is it bad luck to buy baby stuff early?”
In the 1950s, when people often gave birth at home, premature babies were more common, and many of them died. It is said that a house full of baby stuff can make mothers careless about their health, so the baby and the mother would be at risk. However, now that there’s advanced medical care, the threat has largely disappeared. So, if you want to buy baby stuff early or you need to prepare for a baby arrival, there is no reason not to. You can do it without worrying about bad luck.
“Is it bad luck to wash in Labor Day?”
Not only is this a superstition in the Philippines, but it also exists in other countries such as China and Indonesia. The answer is no! It’s just a way to promote personal hygiene, which is encouraged all year round. The idea of not washing on Labor Day is to give the water a rest because it’s also been working hard all year to keep everyone clean. If you think this superstition is not something to be taken seriously and you want to wash even on Labor Day, it is completely fine.
Scientific Perspective on Superstitions
Science has an affinity for debunking myths and superstitions. This includes superstitious beliefs that have been ingrained in the minds of individuals for centuries. One such superstition is the belief that it is bad luck to buy baby stuff early, and washing or preparing for the labor day before it arrives. What is the scientific perspective on this?
Superstitions are generally classified under irrational beliefs, but they are considered a natural part of our psychology. The emergence of these irrational beliefs can be attributed to our brains as its way of making sense of the world.
Belief in superstitious ideas can simply be a result of fear or anxiety, and sometimes, even curiosity. People seek patterns in events and behaviors that lead them to believe in them. This is why, when we fail to find an explanation for some things, we attribute it to “bad luck” or “good fortune.”
But studies suggest that superstitions can also yield beneficial effects. Superstitious beliefs can actually increase self-confidence and minimize stress brought about by uncertainty. They can even serve as a coping mechanism in difficult situations. They can help regulate behavior and develop self-efficacy.
While superstitions can be beneficial, it’s important to not be consumed by them as this can lead to irrational fears and unproductive behavior. Superstitious beliefs are not absolute truths, but merely perceptions formed in the human mind, much like how a person’s mood can change based on their perspective of their environment.
Benefits of Early Preparation
While these are some of the superstitions about getting baby things early, many people believe in the opposite. Some superstitions even say that getting baby things before the third trimester or even the first month is a good sign for the baby. But let’s put superstition aside for a second and talk about why it’s actually good to get the baby stuff early.
1. It gives you more time to prepare
It’s better to get things done before the baby comes, that way when they do, you can focus on getting to know your baby and taking care of them. If you wait until the last minute to prepare, you’ll be stressing about getting everything done and will likely forget important things. Plus, you may be too exhausted and hormonal to prepare at all.
2. You have time to figure out what you need, want and don’t need
By getting baby things early, you can take your time deciding what you need and what you don’t need. You can research products and come up with the best possible list of baby items.
3. Getting baby things early can actually be a good idea if you’re a planner
Many people are natural planners and thrive on organization. If you’re one of these people, then not being able to get things for your baby until later can be extremely stressful for you. And it’s not good to have a stressed out pregnant momma!
4. You feel like you’re actually preparing
For many women, pregnancy doesn’t feel real at first. It can be hard to imagine there’s actually a baby inside of you and that they’ll come out eventually! Getting baby things is a tangible way to help it feel more real.
5. It can help with your nesting instinct
If you’re anything like me (and most other pregnant women), as soon as my third trimester hit, I felt this intense need to deeply clean and nest in my home. The earlier you get baby things, the more time you have to nest!
The Power of Belief and Personal Choice
It’s a simple question, but the answer is more complex than you may think. 8 out of 10 women will answer yes, and when asked why, they might say: ‘the baby could come too early,’ ‘I don’t want to jinx it,’ ‘I’m not that superstitious but…’ or something similar. Childbirth is a major life event, and many people have strong beliefs and traditions around it. Some people might not consider superstitions part of their normal life, but still, take the advice when it is suggested to them. This is especially common among women whose mothers or grandmothers are still alive and influencing beliefs and practices.
There are as many superstitions as there are cultures, some common in most around the world, some unique to a particular region. Some are designed to protect mother and child, others are there to scare off evil spirits, and some just make no sense at all. In 2021, when knowledge is at our fingertips, not much is taken at face value anymore. This makes it even more fascinating that pregnancy seems to be a topic we rarely outright question.
There is no right or wrong answer to whether or not superstitions are bad luck. They pass down from generation to generation and stick around because of the power of tradition and belief. At some point, someone believed so strongly in it that across time and space, different individuals still observe it dutifully. Perhaps the power of belief is the real driving force behind these superstitions. After all, there are no studies that prove most of these customs, yet there they are, firmly embedded in cultures all around the globe.
Using Superstitions to Your Advantage
Pregnancy is a special time that is filled with its share of trials and tribulations. If superstitions bring a little bit of comfort or a sense of control into an otherwise daunting new chapter, then there isn’t much harm in adhering to them in your own way.
As with anything in life, you can choose which superstitions to believe in. You might find it heartwarming to observe certain customs because they remind you of your own childhood or because they bring you joy. You might find others too irrational to even consider. Even though there may be pressure from well-meaning loved ones about what you should and shouldn’t do during your pregnancy, it ultimately boils down to personal choice. If you feel genuinely uncomfortable about washing baby clothes early or wearing some specific colors during your pregnancy, then don’t do it. It’s worth noting though that superstitions aren’t necessarily about what you believe in – in many cases, they are practised as a sign of respect for those around you who do believe in them.
If you are trying to stay away from evil spirits or bad luck, then there’s nothing wrong with hoping that these beliefs will protect you and your baby. On the other hand, if you don’t believe in bad luck and evil spirits, then you can choose not to do them without fearing any consequences.
Dispelling Other Baby-Related Superstitions
Is It Bad Luck to Buy Baby Stuff Early?
Have you ever heard that it’s bad luck to buy baby stuff early? Superstitions surrounding pregnancy and childbirth seem to pop up in any country or culture. While there’s no specific origin for this superstition, it does beg the question, “Why would anyone be opposed to getting a head start on shopping for their new baby?”
Today, there’s almost a pressure to start buying baby gear as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. It’s considered to be a good way to get mentally prepared for the change in your life, as well as allow better room in the budget for new expenses.
The truth is, you can start buying baby stuff whenever you want. Plus, there are some baby items that need to be ordered months in advance, such as certain cribs or bassinets. We don’t put much stock into superstitions, and we recommend that you don’t either. There’s no harm in getting a head start on preparing for your new baby with the stuff you’ll need.
Washing Clothes During Labor
Another superstition that you may hear about involves washing baby clothes during labor. This one is based on an old wives’ tale that says if you wash the baby clothes before labor, you’ll “wash away” your baby’s life. The superstition dates back from the Victorian era when high infant mortality rates made people more superstitious about tangible objects and their relationship to a baby’s life.
People also had to do their laundry outside of the hospital because they didn’t have washing machines. If the expectant mother went into premature labor while she was washing her baby’s clothes, this would put pressure on her family to care for her and the child, which is something they didn’t want to do.
Today, it’s perfectly okay to wash your baby clothes whenever you feel like it! In fact, washing all of your baby clothes before your little one is born is a great idea. This will prevent any rashes from developing on your baby after they’re born from harsh laundry detergents. Make sure to put all their clothes through a second gentle cycle when they’re born if you think they might have sensitive skin!
Embracing the Joy and Excitement of Parenthood
Discovering that you’re expecting a baby is one of life’s biggest surprises and greatest moments. However, it can take some time to adjust to the idea that you’re becoming a parent and decide how to prepare. Your feelings about pregnancy are unique, as are your routines and customs.
Some people believe in the power of superstitions and adhere to them religiously throughout their pregnancy. Others prefer to have a more relaxed viewpoint and wish to concentrate on what is best for them. If you can’t resist the thrill of buying baby clothing or doing the laundry, it’s essential to know what pregnancy superstitions might be holding you back as you prepare.
Is It Bad Luck to Buy Baby Stuff Early or Wash in Labor Day?
According to tradition, purchasing baby stuff early and washing on Labor Day are considered bad luck during pregnancy.
Is it Bad Luck to Buy Baby Stuff Early?
This has been a long-held belief that stems from the desire to keep the baby safe while they are still in the womb. According to this widely held superstition, buying items for the baby before they are born may draw evil spirits. For example, in some cultures, people believe that evil spirits will kidnap your child if you buy items like strollers and cribs before your infant arrives. However, this superstition is not as widespread in all countries, and it is more prevalent in Asian cultures. In reality, people from various customs and cultures have embraced the idea of purchasing baby-related goods early as a way of safeguarding or attracting positive energy.
It is entirely up to you to decide whether or not you are swayed by this old tradition. If you adhere to it, there’s no harm in refraining from purchasing baby items before your baby is born. However, if you can’t resist the allure of purchasing products and want to be proactive with your preparation, don’t let these superstitions distract you from doing what’s best.
Is it Bad Luck to Wash on Labor Day?
You may have heard that women are advised not to “wash anything” on Labor Day. This includes dishes, clothes, or anything else. The reason for this tradition was to give women a day off from all their labourious work during pregnancy. However, this practice is no longer relevant in today’s society. In reality, nearly half of all pregnant women still work outside of the home. Even if they don’t, many women continue doing household chores until the day they give birth.
Cleaning during pregnancy is not harmful as long as it remains within acceptable limits and doesn’t put stress on them. Washing clothes is safe until your water breaks, so don’t be afraid to clean up after yourself or your household if you are feeling up to it. Pregnancy may make you tired more quickly than usual, so be cautious not to push yourself too hard.
Embracing a Healthy Pregnancy
Superstitions and cultural customs abound in society, but they do not necessarily reflect current medical knowledge. It’s important to stick with the things that make you comfortable while staying safe and healthy throughout your pregnancy. More drastically, pregnancy superstitions can result in anxiety or depression if taken too seriously.
Despite the fact that many people are aware of pregnancy myths and old wives’ tales, they may be prone to believe them due to cultural norms and traditions. It is crucial to rely on trusted sources of information such as health experts or professionals as society continues to evolve and modernize.
In conclusion, the belief that it is bad luck to buy baby stuff early or wash baby clothes on Labor Day is rooted in superstition and cultural traditions. While some people may choose to follow these beliefs out of personal preference or cultural significance, there is no concrete evidence to support their validity. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether to adhere to these superstitions or simply embrace the joy and excitement of preparing for their new arrival without any unnecessary worries. So go ahead, buy that cute baby outfit whenever you want and feel free to do laundry on Labor Day without any fear of bad luck!
