Although when I first saw this, I thought it was too big for a newborn, after using one of the smaller newborn hooded towels I have, I changed my mind. It is big enough to wrap him up completely and keep him from getting chilled after his bath. He is now 3 1/2 months old and the smaller towels are pretty much useless. The thick terry dries him off quickly and is very absorbent - thinner towels will leave you wet as the water soaks right through! 5 stars