Nothing is as delicate or sensitive as your little one’s skin and every mother wants to protect her baby from rashes. There is no denying the fact that there are various beautiful patterns and style of clothes available in the market to make your little munchkin look super cute. But instead of getting carried away with all of that, one must question what kind of fabrics these clothes are made of. Well, it’s great to dress your child fashionably but what’s equally important is to make sure that your child feels comfortable in the fabric he/she is wearing. Various baby clothes are manufactured using synthetic fabrics which have been manufactured using harsh chemicals. These chemicals or solvents tend to remain with the fabric even after washing and come in constant contact with skin. Your baby’s sensitive skin may develop rashes or some kind of allergy. However, much you like shopping for your baby, it is much better to avoid certain fabrics while dressing your baby.

#1. Polyester & Nylon

Both these fabrics are manufactured using petrochemical based additives which emit VOCs, i.e. Volatile Organic Compounds, which can cause asthma, allergies and other lung infections in your child. Also Read: Weight and Height Growth Chart for Baby Boy (0 to 12 months)

#2. Teflon

Any piece of garment with the label saying wrinkle-resistant, is probably Teflon-coated as that is what helps to keep the clothes wrinkle-free. Teflon-coated garments may not wrinkle but can catch fire if exposed to heat. Moreover, the toxic gases emitted by this fabric can be harmful for your baby.

#3. Rayon

Most people are under the misconception that since rayon is manufactured using wood pulp, it is a safe and natural fabric. To tell you the truth, this fabric is no less harmful as it also has to go through a chemical treatment which can cause various health hazards such as a headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain and chest pain.

#4. Acrylic

Very similar to wool in appearance, acrylic clothes are widely used in manufacturing baby clothes. Since they are way cheaper than wool the cost factor is also appealing to uninformed parents. Acrylic garments are manufactured using a combination of various toxic substances, many of which are very harmful for your baby. Also Read: First year of baby's development milestones (Month by Month)

#5. Acetate & Triacetate

Both these fabrics are manufactured using cellulose – wood fibers and are made to undergo extensive chemical treatments which give them the desired finish. Research has shown that they can cause various skin allergies, rashes and even shortness of breath in children. In order to prevent your child from falling ill due to chemically-processed clothes, it is better to dress them up in organically made clothing. While natural fabrics are also made to undergo a certain amount of processing but they are still much better than the above-mentioned synthetic fabrics.

Which fabrics can I use for my baby?

Natural fabrics are best suited for your baby. Here are the ones that you should be opting for:

#1. Cotton

Cotton fabric is the best choice for kids apparel. Cotton is soft, absorbent, and gentle against baby’s skin. Organic cotton fabric is grown without the use of chemicals and fertilizers, and is the perfect choice. Babies can have allergies which can be aggravated by synthetic fabrics, so stick to cotton in the initial few years. Also Read:  Baby Skin Color | 10 Effective tips for a healthy skin (and surprising facts)

#2. Muslin

Muslin is a cotton based fabric available in different weights. Thin muslin cloth is great for making baby clothes as it is highly breathable. Diaper covers, swaddle cloths, burp clothes can easily be made with muslin cloth

#3. Fleece

Fleece is good for making outerwear and blankets for babies. Fleece dries quickly, is simple to wash and resists stains - all qualities that are great for making baby clothes. Fleece is also a warm fabric, so you can use it in extensively in winter. Related: 11 Tips to Set Bedtime Routine for Babies & Kids

#4. Wool

While natural wool is great for babies, they can cause slight irritation. Wool won't harm your baby, but it is advisable to have a layer of clothing in between the wool and the baby's skin. What are your favorite baby fabrics? Share below!!

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