How to Choose the Best Organic Kids Clothes

In the journey of parenthood, making decisions that align with the health and well-being of our children tends to be of greatest importance. One such decision that has gained traction in recent years is the choice of organic kids clothes. As parents, it is our responsibility to clothe our children in comfort, but what if this can be accomplished while also contributing positively to their health and the environment? Organic kids clothes, made from natural materials and free from toxic chemicals, present just that opportunity. We’ll delve into everything you need to know about organic kids clothes - the benefits they offer, factors to consider while selecting them, recommended brands, as well as tips to care for them. This blog is your guide to making an informed choice in opting for healthier, sustainable clothing for your kids.

Why Choose Organic Kids Clothes

Choosing organic kids clothes goes beyond the trendy buzzword, it’s an investment in your child’s health and a commitment to the planet. Organic kids clothes are made without harmful synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, safeguarding your child’s sensitive skin from potential irritants or allergens. They are typically more durable, providing comfort that lasts. The production process of organic clothing consumes less water and reduces carbon emissions, positioning it as a green alternative. For the conscious parent, it aligns seamlessly with an eco-friendly lifestyle, influencing a significant reduction in your family’s carbon footprint.

The Benefits of Organic Materials

There’s an array of significant benefits of opting for organic materials when choosing clothes for your kids. Here’s why they stand out:

• Skin-Friendliness: Organic cotton is hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of skin allergies or irritations, thus making it an excellent choice for kids with sensitive skin.
• Durability: Organic fibres are stronger as they are not broken down by chemicals during cultivation or processing. This enhances the durability of the clothes, reducing replacement frequency and further adding to its economic value.
• Enhanced Comfort: The absence of chemicals results in softer fabric, ensuring maximum comfort for active kids throughout the day.
• Environmental Impact: The production of organic materials consumes less water and energy, reduces soil erosion and maintains better soil health, thereby reducing environmental degradation.
• Free from GMOs: By choosing organic clothing, you are investing in garments free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) which are often used in conventionally grown cotton.

Skin Sensitivity and Comfort

Children, especially babies, have extremely sensitive skin that is susceptible to rashes, allergies, and irritations. Conventional kids clothes often contain toxic chemicals including formaldehyde and heavy metals used in the dyeing process. These chemicals can lead to various skin problems and, at times, can pose serious health hazards.

Organic kids clothes, on the other hand, are made from natural materials using eco-friendly processes, keeping harmful toxic chemicals at bay. Instead of feeling rough against delicate skin, these clothes are soft to touch providing a comfortable wear. Furthermore, the natural properties of organic cotton allow it to absorb moisture, keeping your little one’s skin dry and reducing friction that may lead to skin irritation. This makes organic and eco-friendly clothing a great choice for kids with skin sensitivity and conditions like eczema and dermatitis.

Environmental Impact

The benefits of organic kids clothes go beyond your child’s wardrobe, they extend to the planet as well. Conventional clothing production is known for its negative environmental impact, from intensive water usage to pollution from synthetic pesticides and fertilisers. It also contributes significantly to global carbon emissions.

Organic clothing addresses these issues head-on. Organic farming uses less water, does not rely on synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, and has a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional methods. In addition, organic clothing often incorporates sustainable practices throughout the supply chain, including energy-efficiency and waste reduction measures in manufacturing, and eco-friendly packaging. By choosing organic wool, parents can make their child’s clothes a part of their family’s commitment towards a more sustainable lifestyle without the use of synthetic fertilisers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Organic Kids Clothes

Choosing organic kids clothes does require thoughtful consideration. While it may seem straightforward, several factors need to be weighed before making a final decision. Key considerations include certifications and labels that verify the clothing is truly organic, understanding the material quality and its ability to withstand repeated washings and everyday wear, and considering the fit and comfort levels of the garment for your child. Also, look into the clothing’s durability and how long it is likely to last before showing signs of wear or needing replacement.

Certifications and Labels

Certifications and labels provide assurance that the clothing you are investing in truly aligns with organic standards. Here are key certifications to look for:

GOTS: The Global Organic Textile Standard is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for organic fibres. It ensures high-level environmental standards in the entire organic textiles supply chain and requires compliance with social criteria as well.

OCS: The Organic Content Standard provides a certification that verifies the amount of organic material in the final product, tracing it back to the source.

Fair Trade: This certification ensures ethical production practices, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and empowerment of farmers and workers.

These labels add credibility to the brand’s claims of being organic and sustainable. It helps guarantee that your purchase aligns with the eco-friendly values you espouse, contributing positively to societal and environmental welfare.

Material and Quality

The material of the clothing plays a significant role in determining its durability, comfort, and sustainability quotient. Organic cotton and bamboo are popular choices for kid’s clothes due to their superior softness, hypoallergenic properties, and high durability. They are also biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

Quality is another paramount factor. High-quality clothing will have better longevity, will hold up well against wear and tear, and will offer more value for the investment you make. It is essential to choose brands known for their commitment to quality and sustainable production practices that result in durable clothes, contributing towards reducing waste and promoting a circular fashion economy.

Sizing and Fit

Ensuring the right fit for your child not only adds to their comfort but also affects how long the clothes will last. Clothes that are too tight may restrict movement and cause discomfort, while those too loose will likely be put aside. As kids grow rapidly, purchasing slightly larger sizes can ensure the clothing lasts longer.

When considering size, you’ll need to consider the growth rate for your child. When choosing sustainable newborn clothing, you’ll need to know that from birth - 6 months old, babies tend to grow about 1 inch a month, meaning you may want to size up or know that you’ll be going through clothes at a fast rate, so second hand clothing or donating clothes would be a good sustainable option.

For babies, aged around 7 to 12 months, a baby might grow about half an inch per month, so when looking for sustainable baby clothes you can pace yourself a bit more knowing you’ll get more wear out of your choices. 

Toddlers, on the other hand, grow slower, at around 2 to 3 inches per year. So, when looking for sustainable toddler clothes, you can start investing more in longer lasting, more stylish wear.

Many brands offer size guides that can assist in choosing the correct size. Keep in mind, organic clothing may shrink slightly after the first wash due to the absence of chemical treatments. A comfortable fit that allows for easy movement, layered dressing, and growth spurts will maximise the usage and lifecycle of the garment.

Durability and Longevity

Durability and longevity should be key considerations when investing in organic kids clothes. High-quality, durable clothes can withstand the playtime antics, multiple washes, and rough handling that is often characteristic of children’s clothing. Here are some reasons why organic clothes score high on durability:

• Stronger Fibres: Organic materials like cotton have stronger fibres since they are not exposed to harsh chemicals and synthetic pesticides that can weaken them.
• Better Construction: Top organic clothing brands often prioritise superior construction with hardwearing stitching and reinforcements in high wear areas.
• No Chemical Processing: The absence of harsh chemical processing and high-temperature treatments prolongs the life of the fabric.

The longer a garment lasts, the lesser the need for replacement, leading to less waste, making it a win-win situation for your pocket and the environment.

Tips for Caring for Organic Kids Clothes

Taking good care of your organic kids clothes can extend their life and keep them looking their best. Understanding the right washing techniques and stain removal tips, and properly storing these clothes are the key to maintaining their quality. Caring for your child’s clothes isn’t complicated, but it does require a little knowledge and planning. In the following sections, we’ll provide practical tips and advice on how to care for your organic kids’ clothes, helping you make the most of your sustainable investment.

Proper Washing Techniques

Caring for your organic kids’ clothes starts with how you wash them. Here are some effective techniques that can protect the fabric and prolong their lifespan:

• Read Labels: Always read the washing instructions on the clothing labels. Some fabrics may require hand washing or gentle machine cycles.
• Cold Water: Wash your clothes in cold water, it’s gentler to organic fibres and energy-efficient.
• Mild Detergent: Use a mild, eco-friendly laundry detergent without harsh chemicals.
• Avoid Bleach: Bleach can cause damage to delicate organic fibres. Instead, use natural whitening agents like lemon juice or baking soda.
• Air Dry: Drying clothes in the open air is ideal. If using a dryer, opt for a low heat setting to prevent shrinkage.

By following these basic washing principles, you can ensure your organic kid’s clothes remain in top-notch condition.

Stain Removal Tips

Kids will be kids and stains are inevitable. Handling them effectively is key to preserving the longevity of your child’s clothes.

For organic clothes, opt for eco-friendly stain removers. Bac-out, a bio-enzymatic product, is a good choice. For tougher stains like food spill or grass stains, a little baking soda sprinkled on the stain, scrubbed gently and then allowed to sit before washing, can prove effective.

Lemon juice also works great for lightening stains. However, it’s essential to rinse out any stain remover thoroughly so it doesn’t affect the colour of the garment. Remember, the quicker you deal with the stain, the easier it is to remove.

Storage and Maintenance

Proper storage and maintenance are key to ensuring that your child’s organic clothes stay looking fresh and bright for longer.

Always ensure that clothes are clean before you store them away. This prevents stains from setting in and keeps moths at bay. Opt for a cool, dry place to store them and avoid damp or musty areas.

Rather than plastic bags, use cloth bags to store the clothes. This lets the fabric breathe and prevents the formation of mould or mildew. For woollen clothes, consider using cedar chips as they naturally repel moths.

Lastly, it’s a good idea to teach your kids about taking care of their clothes. It not only extends the garment’s life but also instils in them the value of things and importance of sustainability.

Choosing organic clothing for your children offers immense benefits. Not only does it prioritise the comfort and health of your child, but it also contributes positively towards the environment. We’ve shared insightful details on why organic kids clothes make a great choice, from their benefits in terms of skin sensitivity and comfort to their lesser environmental impact. Shopping consciously by considering factors like certifications, material quality, sizing, and durability can ensure a worthwhile investment.