Buying adorable baby clothes can be a lot of fun for parents. However, not all fabrics are created equal when it comes to baby clothing. With so many options out there, knowing which is the best fabric for baby clothes can be overwhelming. Since babies have extra delicate skin, it’s important to select the right fabrics that will provide optimal comfort while being extra gentle on their skin.
At Cuddle Sprouts, we're dedicated to providing the best for your baby. All of our products, from baby clothing to nursery bedding, are carefully designed to provide optimal comfort and care for your little one. That’s why we’re so passionate about the fabrics we use, researching and testing various fabrics until we find the best option for your little one’s delicate skin.
Keep reading to learn more about why fabric choice matters, key factors to look for in fabrics, and the best baby-friendly fabrics to consider, Tencel™ Lyocell—and which ones to avoid.
Why Fabric Choice Matters for Babies
While it’s easy to be drawn to cute patterns and styles, choosing safe and comfortable fabric should be at the top of the priority list when buying baby clothes. Young children, especially infants, have more sensitive and delicate skin than adults, making them susceptible to irritation and discomfort. Therefore, choosing the right fabric for their clothes is crucial for ensuring optimal comfort while protecting their delicate skin.
Let’s take a closer look at the most important factors to consider when buying baby clothes.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Fabrics for Babies
When considering which fabric is best for your baby, consider the following factors:
- Softness: Materials that are gentle and soft to the touch provide soothing comfort while minimizing the risk of irritation or discomfort. Look for fabrics that are naturally soft, like Tencel Lyocell and organic cotton, to provide a cozy and comfortable feel against the baby's skin without the need for chemical softeners and additives.
- Breathability: Breathable fabrics allow air to circulate freely, helping maintain optional comfort during wear. This movement of air helps regulate body temperature and prevent overheating, maintaining the comfort and well-being of your child, especially when sleeping or during warmer weather.
- Moisture-Wicking Ability: Fabrics with moisture-wicking properties effectively draw moisture away from the skin, keeping the baby dry and comfortable. This factor is especially crucial for babies in hot and humid conditions or during sleep and active play.
- Hypoallergenic Properties: Clothing made from hypoallergenic materials is a must for babies with sensitive skin or allergies. However, hypoallergenic properties minimize the risk of allergic reactions or skin irritation for any baby, providing a safe and comfortable option. Naturally sourced fibers often feature impressive hypoallergenic qualities, as they are less likely to contain harsh chemicals or irritants.
- Durability: Look for fabrics that will maintain their softness, shape, and quality over time through many washes and wears. Between spills, spit-up, and the occasional diaper blowout, baby clothes will need to be washed frequently. Additionally, consider fabrics that can withstand the curiosity of babies and toddlers as they grow and become more active and adventurous.
- Ease of Care: Fabrics that are easy to clean and care for can make doing laundry much more convenient for busy parents. Opt for machine-washable materials and those that require minimal ironing for a more practical and convenient option. As always, be sure to follow the specified care instructions for any fabric to ensure long-lasting comfort.
- Sustainability: Opting for sustainable fabrics ensures that baby clothing is made from eco-friendly materials and while minimizing environmental impact during processing. Choosing sustainable fabrics that prioritize renewable resources, minimal chemical use, and environmental impact allows you to protect your baby’s skin and the planet.
The Best Fabric for Baby Clothes: Why We Use Tencel Lyocell
When considering all of the factors of the best fabric for baby clothes, there is one fabric that checks all of the boxes: Tencel Lyocell, a revolutionary fabric that combines optimal comfort with sustainability.
Made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, Tencel Lyocell fibers are naturally silky soft, providing a luxurious feel that your baby will love without the need for harsh chemical softeners (1). Between its gentle and smooth texture and naturally hypoallergenic properties, the fabric provides optimal comfort and care for delicate baby skin, reducing the risk of irritation or discomfort. However, despite its softness, Tencel Lyocell fabric is durable and long-lasting, making it a practical fabric for baby clothes that are sure to be washed and worn frequently.
Additionally, the fabric is highly breathable and has excellent moisture-wicking properties, keeping your baby dry and comfortable throughout the day or night. By wicking away moisture, Tencel fabric keeps babies cool and dry in hot weather and warm in cold weather. Whether it's during playtime or naptime, Tencel Lyocell helps regulate your baby's body temperature, ensuring maximum comfort while preventing overheating and promoting restful sleep.
Parents also love Tencel Lyocell for its sustainable production. Tencel Lyocell is produced using an eco-friendly closed-loop process that minimizes waste and environmental impact. There are minimal solvents used during that process, and the ones that are used are completely organic. That means parents can feel confident knowing they are choosing a material that is kind to the environment and gentle on skin.
At Cuddle Sprouts, we recognize the unparalleled benefits of Tencel Lyocell, which is why we've incorporated it into our collections of baby clothing and nursery bedding. Our use of Tencel Lyocell reflects our dedication to providing the best for your baby while also making responsible choices for the planet.
Other Baby-Friendly Fabrics
Organic Cotton
Pros: Organic cotton is another soft and comfortable fabric for baby clothes. Grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, organic cotton minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals, reducing the risk of skin irritation or allergies. Its natural absorbency ensures that moisture is wicked away from the skin, keeping your baby dry and comfortable.
Cons: One drawback of organic cotton is that it tends to wrinkle easily and may require more frequent ironing to maintain a smooth appearance. Additionally, cotton may be prone to shrinkage with washing, especially if not pre-washed or pre-treated. Lastly, while organic cotton uses fewer pesticides and fertilizers than conventional cotton, the crop still requires significant water and lane use during farming.
Merino Wool
Pros: Merino wool is softer and more lightweight than traditional wool, making it a comfortable and versatile fabric for baby clothes. The fabric offers excellent temperature regulation, making it suitable for all seasons. Despite its reputation for warmth, merino wool is surprisingly lightweight and breathable, ensuring that your baby stays comfortable in varying weather conditions. Its natural elasticity allows for freedom of movement, making it perfect for active babies.
Cons: Some babies may be sensitive to wool fibers, experiencing itchiness or discomfort during wear. Additionally, merino wool tends to be more expensive than other fabrics, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious parents. Clothing made from merino wool often requires careful care during washing and may be prone to pilling over time.
Organic Cotton (Fleece)
Pros: Unlike synthetic fleece, organic cotton fleece provides warmth and coziness without sacrificing breathability, making it an excellent choice for cooler weather. Its plush texture feels gentle against your baby's skin, ensuring comfort and snugness during chilly days.
Cons: While organic cotton offers cozy warmth, it may not be suitable for all climates. Despite its breathability, this fleece fabric is likely too warm for hot and humid weather and may cause overheating or discomfort.
Organic Cotton Muslin:
Pros: Muslin made from organic cotton is prized for its softness, breathability, and versatility. Its lightweight and airy texture makes it perfect for swaddling, burp cloths, and lightweight blankets, providing comfort and security to your baby. Organic cotton muslin is gentle on sensitive skin and allows for excellent airflow, reducing the risk of overheating during warmer weather.
Cons: While muslin fabric is a comfortable option for babies, it’s not as durable as many other fabrics listed above. Clothing made from muslin is more likely to show signs of wear after repeated washing. Additionally, muslin fabric is lightweight and often sheer, requiring multiple layers or additional lining to provide adequate covering or create warmer clothing options.
Bamboo Fabric
Pros: Bamboo is known for its buttery soft, smooth texture, providing a comfortable option for baby clothing. The fabric is also breathable and lightweight, making it a comfortable choice ideal for warmer climates. Bamboo fabric is also a more sustainable option than other popular materials, such as cotton and polyester.
Cons: Despite its benefits, bamboo fabric does have some drawbacks to consider. Despite the fabric’s soft comfort, clothing made from bamboo is often prone to wrinkling and may not be as durable as other options. Additionally, the production process of bamboo fabric often involves chemical treatments to break down the bamboo fibers, which can raise concerns about environmental pollution and chemical exposure.
Is 100% Cotton Good for Baby Clothes?
Whether 100% cotton is good for baby clothes depends on the baby's skin condition. While cotton is generally considered safe and comfortable for many babies, some infants may have eczema or sensitive skin that can react to non-organic cotton. Conventional, non-organic cotton is often treated with pesticides and chemicals during cultivation and processing, which can pose a risk of irritation or allergic reactions for sensitive individuals. Therefore, for babies with eczema or sensitive skin, the best option is to use either organic cotton or Tencel fabric.
You May Want to Avoid These Fabrics
Not all fabrics are created equal, and some may do more harm than good, causing discomfort and irritation to your baby’s delicate skin. Here are a few fabrics you may want to avoid, especially if your child suffers from skin conditions, such as eczema:
Acrylic: While offering a softness reminiscent of wool, acrylic fabric lacks breathability and temperature regulation which can lead to overheating and general discomfort. Additionally, acrylic fibers can be coarse and may cause irritation or itching on sensitive baby skin. Lastly, acrylic fabrics are prone to generating static electricity, which can be uncomfortable for babies.
Nylon: Although known for its durability and stretchiness, clothing made with nylon fabric can pose discomfort for babies. Since nylon lacks breathability and moisture-wicking capability, the fabric tends to trap heat and lead to discomfort and dampness while creating a breeding ground for unwanted bacteria and odors. Nylon should be especially avoided for sleepwear and in warmer climates. .
Rayon: Despite its derivation from natural materials and often being labeled as "sustainable," rayon undergoes various chemical treatments during manufacturing. These chemicals may irritate sensitive baby skin, making it less than ideal for their clothing.
Polyester: Despite its popularity in the clothing industry, polyester lacks the breathability necessary for ensuring optimal comfort and avoiding overheating. Similarly, the fabric lacks the ability to effectively absorb or wick away moisture, leading to dampness and discomfort, especially in the diaper area. Lastly, polyester is the opposite of eco-friendly. Not only is it made with non-renewable petroleum resources and requires several chemicals during production, but polyester leads to a vast amount of textile waste and pollution.
Synthetic Fleece*: While warm and cozy, synthetic fleece fabric often lacks breathability and often traps heat. Therefore, many types of fleece clothing can lead to discomfort, irritation, and overheating. Fleece fabrics made from materials like polyester are also prone to pilling with wear and washing. If you are looking for a cozy fabric for cooler climates, opt for organic cotton fleece for a more breathable and baby-friendly option.
Wool*: While not all wool is bad, some babies may be allergic or sensitive to rough wool fibers, leading to skin irritation, itching, or rashes. Additionally, wool is a high-maintenance fabric, requiring careful care that may pose an inconvenience for busy parents. Be mindful when selecting wool fabric for your baby, opting for more baby-friendly options like merino wool.
What Fabrics Should Babies with Eczema Avoid?
Babies with eczema should avoid fabrics that are likely to irritate their sensitive skin, such as synthetic materials like polyester and nylon (2). Many synthetic materials lack the breathability of fabrics made from natural fibers, especially those made from petroleum-based resources. These fabrics can trap heat and moisture against the skin, leading to itching and discomfort. Additionally, avoid fabrics with scratchy, rough textures, such as wool, as these can lead to discomfort and flare-ups.
Instead, soft and breathable fabrics like organic cotton and Tencel, are gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation. Clothing with smooth, soft textures can help minimize friction and reduce the risk of flare-ups. Additionally, organic and sustainable materials are less likely to be processed with harsh chemical additives, making them a safer option for eczema-prone skin. As always, we recommend consulting your child’s physician for specific clothing and care recommendations for any skin conditions, including eczema.
Choose Better Fabrics For a Happier Baby
Ultimately , the fabric you choose for your baby's clothes can make a significant difference in their comfort, health, and well-being. While there are many adorable options out there, take the time to read the tags and consider the materials the clothing is made from. Remember to look for eco-friendly fabrics that are soft to the touch while offering features such as breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and durability. While you’re at it, pay close attention to the fabrics used in other baby essentials too, like nursery bedding and baby blankets, to support cozy cuddles and comfortable sleep for your child.
At Cuddle Sprouts, we believe in providing the best for your baby, which is why we use Tencel Lyocell and other baby-friendly fabrics in everything from baby clothes to pajamas to bedding essentials.
Shop our collection of Tencel baby clothes and experience the unmatched comfort of Tencel Lyocell for your little one.
Reference Links
1. Tencel, About TENCEL™ Fibers
2. National Eczema Society, Clothing and Eczema
