When it comes to dressing your little ones, making the best choices for their comfort and well-being is paramount.
Your baby’s clothing is especially important because a newborn’s skin is their biggest organ. Skin can absorbs much of what it touches, so it’s a good idea to dress your little one in items made from organic fibers and natural dyes.
Many baby clothing manufacturers claim to be ‘organic’ or ‘ethical’ and it is very hard for consumers to tell the difference between an organic or non-organic baby product just by looking at it or feeling it. Looking for brands that are "GOTS" certified can be helpful.
What is GOTS Certified?
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) has a clearly defined set of criteria and is transparent. GOTS is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for organic fibres, including ecological and social criteria, backed up by independent certification of the entire textile supply chain.
Why Choose Organic Cotton?
Organic cotton has gained popularity in recent years as a preferred choice for baby clothing, and for good reason. Gentle on sensitive skin, and environmentally friendly, there are numerous benefits to opting for organic cotton garments for your baby. One of the primary reasons to choose organic cotton for your baby's clothing is its softness and breathability. Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making it softer and safer for delicate baby skin. Conventional cotton is treated with harsh chemicals during production, which can potentially irritate your baby's skin and cause allergies.
Health Benefits
Organic cotton is hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for babies with sensitive skin or skin conditions such as eczema. By opting for organic cotton baby clothing, you can reduce the risk of skin irritation and ensure that your baby stays comfortable throughout the day.
Environmental Impact
Choosing organic cotton also benefits the environment. Organic cotton farming methods promote biodiversity and do not rely on synthetic chemicals, which helps to reduce overall environmental impact. By supporting organic cotton producers, you are contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for the planet.
Durability and Longevity
Organic cotton clothing is known for its durability. The fibers are generally stronger than conventional cotton, making them more resistant to wear and tear. This means that organic cotton baby clothes are likely to last longer, allowing you to pass them down to younger siblings or friends, reducing waste in the long run.
Comfort and Versatility
Baby clothing made from organic cotton is not only gentle on the skin but also comfortable to wear. The breathable nature of organic cotton allows air to circulate around the baby's body, helping to regulate temperature and minimize sweating. Organic cotton garments are also versatile and can be worn in various weather conditions, keeping your baby cozy and happy.
Pesticides and Chemical Exposure on Cotton Crops
While cotton only makes up 3% of the total farmed land area, it accounts for 25% of the insecticides and 10% of the pesticides used worldwide, making it one of the most chemically treated crops!
Dozens of different pesticides are used on cotton crops and about half of them have been named as possible or probably carcinogens by the EPA.
These chemical residues may come into contact with your baby's skin, potentially leading to health issues. By choosing organic cotton, you minimize your baby's exposure to harmful chemicals and ensure their safety.
Processing of Cotton
When cotton is processed, it requires dozens more chemicals, including bleach when that raw cotton is converted into fiber for clothes.
Environmental Impact
The EPA estimates that up to 2 million birds may be killed annually from just one of the insecticides used on cotton. This is devastating because only about 10% of the pesticides used on cotton crops are thought to actually accomplish their job and the rest ends up in the air and water supply.
Supporting Fair Labor Standards
Many organic cotton producers follow fair trade practices, ensuring that workers are paid fair wages and operate in safe working conditions. By purchasing organic cotton baby clothing, you are supporting ethical and sustainable practices in the textile industry, contributing to the well-being of communities around the world.
Easy Care and Maintenance
Organic cotton is easy to care for and maintain. Most organic cotton garments are machine washable and can withstand regular washing without losing their shape or softness. This makes it convenient for busy parents to keep their baby's clothing clean and fresh without the need for special care instructions.
Cost-Effective in the Long Run
While organic cotton baby clothing may have a slightly higher price tag upfront compared to conventional cotton garments, the long-term benefits outweigh the costs. Due to its durability and longevity, organic cotton clothing proves to be a cost-effective choice in the long run, saving you money on frequent replacements and reducing your overall environmental footprint.
Embracing a Natural Lifestyle
By choosing sustainable fabrics and organic cotton for your baby's clothing, you are not only making a conscious decision for their health and comfort but also embracing a natural and sustainable lifestyle. Organic cotton embodies the essence of purity and nature, aligning with your values of providing the best for your little one while caring for the planet.
In a Perfect World...
We would only choose sustainable and organic clothing, get rid of all synthetic materials in our households, and even grow our own organic food!
Since our time and budget make this impossible, we can strive to make positive changes and choose safer options.
It doesn't need to be expensive! Here's a great idea -
Shop Second Hand for Organic and Natural Fibres
TIP - Your local and online second hand and thrift stores often have amazing deals and selection for organic cotton, linen, bamboo and other natural fiber clothing.
Shopping second hand, thrift, and consignment clothing stores benefits the planet, our budgets, and our families. It also reduces the need for new, environmentally taxing clothing to be created.
Our Customers' Organic and Sustainable Brand Favorites
Here are a few of our customers go-to brands for organic and sustainable clothing – for comfort, style, quality, along with brand values and practices:
Rowe (ages 0 to adult) - their "zomper" is a our favorite newborn gift, makes diaper changes a breeze! They have branched into adult clothing, which we wear on repeat and is also the perfect gift for family and friends
Mini Mioche (ages 0-12) - the perfect, super versatile, comfy, quality basics. Their clothing is perfect to mix and match, with gender-neutral solid colors.
Parade Organics (ages 0-3) - we love their soft and snuggly zippered convertible rompers, sleep sacks and gowns.
