Dressing your new baby can be one of the most enjoyable jobs as a parent. Those tiny onesies, sweet pajamas, and itty bitty socks are irresistible. First item on my agenda when I found out I was having a little girl was to purchase her welcome home outfit and every outfit for the next 6 weeks. I might have gone a little overboard in the beginning.
In the midst of all of the excitement of a new baby or when you are buying a gift for someone else, you may not consider what’s in the fabric you are purchasing. With my first child I didn’t think twice about the fabric initially. Not until my son starting showing signs of skin irritation. Since clothing is in constant contact with a baby’s delicate skin, I now choose items made of organic cotton and non-toxic dyes.
When shopping for baby’s clothing, you’ll find that most items are made out of cotton and/or synthetic fibers that are manufactured with petrochemicals, acrylic (polycrylonitriles), PVC, and esters. Cotton is often treated with harmful chemicals that can’t always be washed away. Which means the chemicals could be absorbed by your baby’s skin.
Organic cotton represents a return to safe and sustainable practices. It is grown with natural fertilizers and is free from toxic chemicals.
Organic farmers rely on crop rotation to replenish and maintain soil fertility. Mechanical cultivation and botanical or biological means are used to control pests and weeds.
A field must be pesticide-free for at least three years to be certified organic, and the cotton must be processed according to international organic standards.
The standards also set strict guidelines for transportation and storage to avoid cross-contamination. In the U.S., cotton labelled as organic has to be certified by an independent agency recognized by the USDA’s National Organic Program.
What should you keep in mind when shopping or buying gifts?
Choosing clothing made of sustainable fibers with non-toxic dyes are the safest and will keep harmful chemicals and toxins away from your baby’s skin. Look for clothing that is made out of organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, wool, cashmere, or silk and check the label for no chemical finishes, non-toxic dyes and inks.
How do you find affordable and safe clothing for your kids?
Our favorite brand is Babinca which is handmade with organic cotton by a mom in Israel. We are proud to have partnered with Babinca to bring you not only safe but adorable organic cotton items for your baby. If you’re looking for products for older children check out Kate Quinn Organics.
