The Best Infant Fabrics and What to Avoid

Newborn babies’ skin is 5 times more sensitive than adult skin. Therefore, when buying newborn baby clothes, mothers need to choose the most suitable and safe fabrics to prevent dangerous allergic phenomena that can occur to the baby’s body.

As an expert with 12 years of experience in the clothing industry and having access to hundreds of different fabrics around the world, I think I have a responsibility to share my knowledge with parents over the world. Through the article below, mothers will know what types of infant fabric should wear and what types of fabrics should be avoided. Let’s follow along now!

1. Why Is Infant Fabric Important When Choosing Clothes for Newborns?

Newborn babies often have very immature and sensitive skin. Therefore, the top concern of mothers when choosing clothes for their babies is the type of fabric. Because the fabric is in direct contact with the baby’s delicate skin, using clothes with poor fabric will rub and damage the baby’s skin.

Mothers need to learn to choose products that use safe, benign fabrics, helping their babies feel comfortable when wearing them. In addition, choosing the right fabric material helps the baby’s skin be more pampered, avoiding irritation that negatively affects the baby’s skin and health.

2. Factors to consider when choosing infant fabric

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.

3. So which is the best fabric for baby clothes?

3.1. Cotton

Cotton is the fabric that is always at the top of the list when choosing to buy newborn clothes for your baby. This is a fabric whose main ingredient is natural cotton fibers, absorbs moisture well, helps keep baby’s skin clear, avoids diaper rash and heat rash.

Besides, cotton fabric provides softness and gentleness to care for the tender skin of newborns. The price of this material is also very affordable, so cotton is always the top choice of many mothers when looking to buy newborn clothes for their babies.

An important note for mothers: Not all products labeled cotton are suitable for babies. Currently, many fabrics are not 100% cotton, they are mixed with other materials. For example: cotton mixed with polyester, and they’re really not a good choice. Although the price is cheaper, this cotton blend fabric is poorly absorbent, hot and can easily irritate baby’s skin.

3.2. Fleece

During cold weather or seasonal changes, fleece fabric is a great choice for baby clothes. This material has the ability to keep warm very well, and protect your baby from cold weather, thus limiting minor flu illnesses.

A special feature of fleece fabric is its ability to dry quickly after washing, which is very convenient in winter or wet rainy season conditions. Fabric from sheep’s wool is also easier to clean, making it a perfect replacement for traditional wool.

3.3. Bamboo

Bamboo fiber fabric has 100% natural ingredients, is very benign and ensures safety for your baby’s skin. The fabric is soft, smooth, cool to the touch, and has a certain elasticity, so it will be very suitable for children in countries with hot and humid weather conditions.

In particular, this material derived from bamboo has the ability to resist some types of fungi and harmful bacteria. Bamboo fibers contain chlorophyll and sodium copper, which have very good deodorizing effects. Through high-tech production lines, products made of bamboo fiber effectively inhibit bacterial growth and purify the surrounding air. For newborn babies who are weak and often vomit, bamboo fabric is a material that cannot be ignored.

3.4. Linen

Linen is a fabric made from natural fibers of the flax plant, with very good durability. The plus point of linen fabric is that it is light in weight and has excellent sweat absorption ability. Clothes made from linen also feel airy, and cool and limit heat, so mothers choose to use them a lot in the summer.

3.5. Silk

Silk is a suitable fabric for newborns thanks to its extremely good anti-mold and antibacterial properties. Besides, clothes made from silk fabric also bring a cool and comfortable feeling thanks to high ventilation and good moisture absorption ability. Silk is beautiful, noble, and slightly lustrous, which is why it is so suitable for formal items. Therefore, this is also the type of fabric that mothers should consider when choosing to buy newborn clothes for their babies.

In addition to the fabrics mentioned above, there will be a few more fabrics suitable for newborns, such as Wool, Gauze, Footer jersey, Interlock, Muslin or Sateen,… They all have different pros and cons and for more information about these fabrics, you can fill out the contact form or comment questions below the article, we are always ready to support 24/24.

4. Which fabrics are the worst for baby clothes?

As a garment expert, I advise you not to choose synthetic fabrics. Let’s read the labels carefully before buying children’s clothes and make sure that they do not contain polyester.

4.1. Teflon

Teflon is a well-regarded material for its ability to reduce wrinkles and prevent stains on clothes. However, this is a material that mothers should avoid when buying newborn clothes for their babies because, at high temperatures, it will emit a toxic gas. If inhaled, this gas can have a negative effect on the baby’s health, causing birth defects or cardiovascular diseases.

4.2. Nylon & Polyester

Mothers should not buy clothes containing polyester and nylon for their babies. This is a compound created with petrochemical additives, very harmful to the environment and volatile. This substance is the cause of respiratory diseases, asthma, and lung infections in babies when inhaled, even at low concentrations.

Someone will say that now almost everything has this ratio of fiber. However, experts have proven that even a small amount of polyester fibers in clothes can adversely affect a child’s health. Agree that we can use these materials for outerwear, but it is still better to give preference to natural materials.

4.3. Rayon

Rayon is derived from wood pulp but is treated with chemicals, including CS2, which is dangerous to children’s health. It is the main cause of headaches, nausea, vomiting, and chest tightness in children and adults. Therefore, mothers should stay away from this material when buying clothes.

4.4. Minky

Minky fabric, characterized by its microfiber plush with a short and sparse pile, boasts endearing, soft, and tender nubs that children adore. Crafted entirely from 100% polyester, it is advisable to refrain from utilizing it in clothing items. Nevertheless, it proves to be an excellent choice for wraps and blankets, offering a luxurious softness that is gentle on the skin and remarkably warm. Despite misconceptions regarding its quality, minky fabric is, in reality, a safe material, manufactured using state-of-the-art technologies and modern equipment.

4.5. Voile

Another synthetic fabric. It’s perfect for embellishments on children’s clothing but is extremely dangerous for babies and toddlers, be aware.

4.6. Microfiber

This is a fairly new fabric and is frequently used for outerwear. However, it has not been tested for safety for babies, so it is better to pay attention to good fabrics.

5. 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. 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.

6. Where to buy safe and suitable clothes for children in bulk?

Currently, embroidered & smocked clothing is popular around the world thanks to its unique and luxurious beauty while still bringing comfort to children. And if you are looking to buy embroidered & smocked children’s clothing products in large quantities (from 30 pieces), K-Embroidery is the number 1 choice. We are the leading manufacturer in Vietnam with more than 380+ experienced workers. K-Embroidery’s products are different from other suppliers because they are 100% hand-smocked, with absolutely no defects, while the price is always 5-15% cheaper.

7. FAQs

7.1. Wat fabrics are safe for babies

Organic cotton is often considered the safest fabric for kids wear. It’s soft, breathable, and free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. Organic cotton is gentle on sensitive baby skin, lowers the risk of irritation or allergic reactions, and provides excellent comfort in various climates.

8.2. Is 100% polyester safe for babies?

While 100% polyester isn’t toxic, it’s not ideal for baby clothes. Polyester is a synthetic fabric for kids’ wear that can cause overheating and skin irritation in babies. It doesn’t breathe well and may trap moisture against the skin. Natural fibres are generally a safer and more comfortable choice for babies.

8.3. What fabrics irritate baby skin?

Fabrics that commonly irritate baby skin include:

• Wool (except fine merino wool)
• Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon
• Fabrics treated with harsh chemicals or flame retardants
• Rough or scratchy textures
• Materials with added fragrances or dyes: Choose natural fibres for kids’ clothing to minimise skin irritation.

8.4. What is the best fabric for baby blankets?

The best fabrics for baby blankets are:

• Organic cotton: Soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic
• Muslin: Lightweight and breathable, ideal for swaddling
• Bamboo: Naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking
• Fleece: Warm and cosy for colder climates (but avoid for newborns). Choose based on climate, season, and your baby’s needs.

8.5. Is minky fabric safe for babies

Minky fabric is safe for babies when used for supervised items like play mats, stroller blankets, or cuddle time. For newborn sleep, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or muslin to reduce risks.

8.6. Can newborns wear cotton?

Yes! Newborns can absolutely wear cotton, and in fact, cotton is one of the best fabrics for them.

Why Cotton Is Good for Newborns

• Soft and Gentle: Pure cotton is smooth on sensitive newborn skin, reducing the risk of irritation or rashes.
• Breathable: Allows air circulation, keeping babies cool and preventing overheating.
• Absorbent: Helps absorb sweat and moisture, keeping the baby dry and comfortable.
• Hypoallergenic: Natural cotton is less likely to cause allergies compared to synthetic fabrics.
• Easy to Wash: Cotton withstands frequent washing, which is important for baby clothes.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Choose 100% Cotton: Blended fabrics with polyester may reduce breathability and comfort.
• Avoid Harsh Dyes or Prints: Stick to organic or chemical-free cotton when possible.
• Seasonal Consideration: In colder weather, layer cotton with warmer fabrics since cotton itself doesn’t insulate well.

Newborns can and should wear cotton, especially 100% organic cotton, as it is one of the safest, most comfortable, and skin-friendly fabrics for their delicate bodies.

9. In conclusion

Through this article, I hope I can help mothers understand what fabrics are and are not suitable for newborns. From there you can search and choose to buy the most suitable clothes for your baby. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to comment below the article or leave your contact information, I will respond as soon as possible. Sincerely!

Contact K-Embroidery manager to buy high quality, cute and safe hand-sewn products for children via WhatsApp: +84855555961 to get the best price and order now!

Contact:

• Address: 5th Floor, Building No. 169 Nguyen Ngoc Vu, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
• Hotline: +84855555961
• Website: https://k-embroidery.com/
• WhatsApp: +84855555961