Welcoming a newborn into the world is an exciting moment. Whether you are a new, or experienced, parent, you may wonder how to ensure that your baby is comfortable and safe.
Newborns have delicate, sensitive skin that requires special care, especially when it comes to clothing. Choosing the right newborn clothes for sensitive skin can make a significant difference in your baby’s comfort and health. Let's take a look at important considerations when shopping for newborn clothes for sensitive skin.
Understanding Newborn Skin Sensitivity
Newborn skin is about 30% thinner than adult skin, making it more susceptible to irritation, dryness, and allergic reactions. Babies' skin is also less oily and more permeable, which means it can absorb substances more easily, including potential irritants found in clothes, detergents, sheets, and more. Therefore, it is crucial to choose clothing that minimizes these risks.
Choosing the Right Fabric
Let's take a look at the best fabrics when shopping for newborn clothes for sensitive skin.
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is one of the best fabrics for newborn clothes. It is free from pesticides, chemicals, and synthetic fertilizers, making it gentle on the skin. Organic cotton is also breathable, allowing air to circulate and prevent overheating. It offers excellent value and is easy to care for, not adding stress to new parents' lives.
Bamboo
Bamboo fabric is another excellent choice for newborns with sensitive skin. It is naturally hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and incredibly soft. Bamboo also has moisture-wicking properties, which help keep your baby dry and comfortable.
Merino Wool
While wool is generally known for being itchy, merino wool is an exception. It is ultra-soft, breathable, and has natural temperature-regulating properties. Merino wool is also hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.
Silk
Silk is a luxurious and hypoallergenic fabric that is gentle on newborn skin. It is smooth and soft, reducing the risk of irritation. However, silk can be more challenging to care for compared to other fabrics, making it a slightly less exciting material for newborns and toddlers, who tends to quickly stain their garments.
Modal
Modal is a type of rayon made from beech tree pulp. It is soft, breathable, and less likely to cause allergic reactions. Modal is also durable and retains its shape well, making it a good choice for baby clothes. It is typically used in very luxurious newborn clothes, and does not represent the best value in newborn fashion.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals
There is more you should consider when it comes to shopping for newborn clothes for sensitive skin.
Dyes and Prints
Brightly colored clothes often contain synthetic dyes that can cause skin irritation. Look for clothes that are dyed with natural or low-impact dyes, instead. Avoid clothes with large printed designs as the printing process can introduce harmful chemicals.
Here at Little Hedonist, our dyes are OEKO-Tex-certified, meaning that they have been tested against the presence of harmful substances. Our european organic cotton is of course, certified organic at the source, as well as OEKO-Tex certified. Those certifications give you peace of mind when it comes to adding safe clothes to your newborn's wardrobe.
Flame Retardants
Some baby clothes are treated with flame retardants to meet safety standards. However, these chemicals can be harsh on sensitive skin, and possibly toxic for your newborn. Opt for flame-retardant-free clothing whenever possible and ensure other safety measures, such as safe sleep practices, are in place.
Fabric Softeners and Detergents
Standard fabric softeners and detergents can leave residues that irritate delicate skin. Choose mild, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic laundry detergents. Avoid using fabric softeners and opt for a second rinse cycle to remove any detergent residues.
Ensuring Proper Fit
Avoiding Tight Clothing
Tight clothing can cause friction and irritation on a newborn’s sensitive skin. Breathability is key, and the fit needs to allow for airflow, as much as the material of the clothes.
Opt for loose-fitting garments that allow for movement and airflow. Elastic bands should be soft and covered to prevent chafing.
Adjustable Features
Newborns grow quickly, so adjustable features like snaps, ties, and elastic bands can help ensure a comfortable fit for a longer period. Look for clothes with multiple size adjustments to accommodate your baby’s growth.
Easy Access for Diaper Changes
Frequent diaper changes are a part of life with a newborn. Choose clothes with easy access features like snap buttons, zippers, or envelope necklines. This reduces the need to fully undress your baby, minimizing skin exposure and irritation.
Prioritizing Comfort
Seamless Clothing
Seams can be rough and cause discomfort or even rashes on sensitive skin. Look for seamless clothing or clothes with flat seams that are less likely to irritate.
At Little Hedonist, our signature styles are seam-free, limiting the risk for irritation and allowing parents to easily roll up sleeves and ankles for a longer fit! We also use a seaming pattern around the neck and shoulders, to prevent irritation for babies who lay on their back for longer periods of time.
Tag-less Labels
Tags can be scratchy and irritating. Opt for clothes with tagless labels or ensure that tags are easily removable without damaging the garment.
If you choose Little Hedonist, none of our clothes have neck tags, as they are designed with children's comfort in mind.
Layering
Layering helps you adjust your baby’s clothing to their comfort needs. Choose soft, breathable layers that can be added or removed easily. This is particularly useful for regulating your baby’s temperature.
Practicality and Durability
Easy to Wash
Newborns can go through multiple outfits in a day due to spills, drooling, and diaper leaks. Choose clothes that are easy to wash and dry. Machine-washable items that can withstand frequent laundering are ideal. We recommend organic cotton or bamboo, which can sustain washing and drying at high frequency.
Durability
Newborn clothes should be durable enough to handle frequent washing and wearing. Look for high-quality fabrics and well-constructed garments that will last through multiple washes without losing their softness or shape.
You should be able to pass down your newborn and toddler clothes! Here at Little Hedonist, this is part of our ethos, and we design clothes to last multiple years and multiple kids.
Special Considerations
Preemie Clothes
If your baby is born prematurely, their skin will be even thinner and more sensitive. Preemie clothes are designed to be extra gentle and are usually made from the softest, safest materials. They also come in smaller sizes to fit preemies comfortably.
Seasonal Considerations
Consider the season when your baby will be born. For summer, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like organic cotton or bamboo. For winter, opt for warmer layers like merino wool or brushed organic cotton. Ensure that whatever you choose is soft and gentle on the skin.
Eco-Friendly and Ethical Choices
Choosing eco-friendly and ethically-made clothes not only benefits your baby but also the environment. Look for brands that prioritize sustainability, fair labor practices, and eco-friendly materials. These brands, like ours, often produce higher quality and safer clothing options, mindful of your children's health, workers' working conditions, and the planet.
Newborn Clothes For Sensitive Skin
Choosing the right newborn clothes for sensitive skin involves careful consideration of the fabric, construction, fit, and practicality of the garments. Opting for natural, organic, and hypoallergenic materials can significantly reduce the risk of skin irritation and allergies. Ensuring proper fit, comfort, and durability will keep your baby comfortable and happy. Remember to prioritize easy-to-wash and eco-friendly options to make caring for your newborn as seamless as possible. With the right choices, you can provide your baby with a comfortable start in life, free from unnecessary skin irritations.
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Sources:
Healthline. (2024). 13 Facts About Your Baby's Skin. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/must-know-facts-about-your-babys-skin
Soil Association. What is Organic Cotton. Retrieved from https://www.soilassociation.org/take-action/organic-living/fashion-textiles/organic-cotton/
OETEO. What is Bamboo Fabric and its Benefits for Babies. Retrieved from https://oeteo.co/blogs/news/bamboo-fabric-what-is-it-and-benefits-for-baby
