Key takeaways
- Organic clothes are free from harmful chemicals, making them better for delicate skin.
- Organic baby clothes come in various fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo, and wool.
- While many brands offer organic clothes, look for brands with recognized certifications and a commitment to ethical practices.
Introduction
As a parent, you want to do everything possible to give your baby the best possible start in life. This includes dressing your little bundle of joy in comfortable and stylish clothing. That's where organic baby clothes come in. But what exactly are they, and why should you choose them over standard baby clothes?
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of organic baby clothes and what to consider when buying them. We'll also explore the best baby clothes brands to help you identify brands committed to sustainable and ethical practices.
Whether you're a first-time parent, experienced, or looking to dazzle loved ones with a thoughtful baby gift, read on to learn the essentials about organic baby clothes and where to shop for the best baby clothes.
What Are Organic Baby Clothes?
Organic baby clothes are made from certified organic materials like organic cotton, linen, and wool. They are grown without harmful chemicals like synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, making them safer and healthier for babies.
Benefits of Organic Baby Clothes
Organic baby clothes offer various benefits for both babies and the environment. Here are some of the key benefits:
Gentle on Delicate Skin
Many newborn babies have sensitive skin. Organic clothes are free from toxic chemicals used in producing clothes, like flame retardants, heavy metals, formaldehyde, chlorine bleach, and AZO dyes. They are also free from harmful inputs used during cultivation, like synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. The absence of these harmful chemicals makes them ideal for babies with sensitive skin, especially those with conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Safer for Health
Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are manufactured using petrochemicals like crude oil and natural gas, which emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These VOCs can put infants at risk of contracting respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
Besides synthetic materials, fabrics like conventional cotton can also pose a health risk to newborns. Conventional cotton cultivation involves heavily using pesticides, insecticides, and chemical fertilizers. In fact, conventional cotton farming accounts for 10% of global insecticide sales and nearly 5% of global pesticide sales — more than any other natural fabric (Better Cotton, 2023).
These synthetic farm inputs can irritate a baby's skin and cause other health complications. Opting for organic clothes made from organic cotton can safeguard your baby from these harmful substances.
Durability
While the initial cost of organic baby clothes might seem hefty compared to conventional baby clothes, it’s a worthwhile investment. Organic fabrics are often stronger and more durable than their conventional counterparts, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This extended lifespan can save you money in the long run.
Breathable
Baby clothes made from synthetic fabrics aren’t considered breathable because they don’t circulate air well and trap heat. As a result, they can cause babies to sweat excessively and overheat. Organic clothes are naturally breathable, making them ideal for newborns acclimatizing to their new environment.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly
Organic cotton farming and production practices are better for the environment than conventional cotton farming. Organic cotton production typically uses less water and energy and often involves sustainable practices like agroforestry, which enrich the soil and promote biodiversity.
For instance, conventional cotton requires 2,700 liters of water to produce one t-shirt (Oxwash, n.d.). In comparison, organic cotton only requires 243 liters of water for the same. That's a whopping 91% more water!
By choosing organic clothes, you promote sustainable agricultural practices that minimize the environmental impact of conventional cotton farming.
Promote Ethical Practices
Purchasing organic baby clothes is not only an investment in your baby's well-being but also a commitment to ethical practices. Many organic baby clothes brands prioritize transparent supply chains, fair wages, and safe working conditions for workers involved in production. Buying organic clothes contributes to a supply chain that values people and the environment.
What to Consider When Buying Organic Baby Clothes
While selecting organic baby clothes is a laudable decision, choosing genuine organic clothes requires a discerning eye. Here are key considerations to keep in mind when buying clothes for newborns:
Certifications
Some baby clothes brands label their garments as organic, yet they aren’t. As a result, look for garments with recognized certifications, such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), OEKO-TEX Standard 100, or the Organic Content Standard (OCS) certification. These certifications guarantee that the clothing meets stringent environmental standards, ensuring a genuinely safe product for your infant.
Fabric
While organic cotton is the most popular fabric for organic baby clothes, consider other options like organic bamboo, linen, hemp, and wool. When evaluating different fabrics, consider factors like breathability, durability, and climate suitability. For instance, if you reside in a warm region, you'll want to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton rather than heavier fabrics like wool.
Dyes and Finishes
Synthetic dyes and finishes can counteract the benefits of organic clothing. Look for baby clothes dyed with natural or low-impact dyes that are gentler on the skin. Steer clear of clothing treated with harmful chemicals and prioritize minimally processed garments to retain their natural properties.
Sizing and Fit
Newborns grow rapidly, so consider buying various sizes to accommodate your baby's growth. Also, look for clothes that fit your baby comfortably. Avoid purchasing too tight or loose clothes, as they can be uncomfortable and unsafe for your baby.
Versatility and Layering
Select versatile garments that allow you to mix and match outfits for different occasions. Also, look for garments you can layer as they provide adaptability to changing temperatures, allowing you to regulate your baby’s comfort.
Maintenance and Care
Caring for a newborn can come with its fair share of challenges, particularly if you're a first-time parent. Look for baby clothes that come with easy care instructions. Machine washable and tumble-dry friendly garments can save you time and effort, making them ideal, especially if you have a busy schedule.
Build Quality
While most organic baby clothing is incredibly durable, inspect pieces to ensure they are well-made and have durable seams.
Price
Organic baby clothes are generally costlier than conventional baby clothes. However, while they typically cost more, their durability makes them good value for money in the long run. That said, here are some alternatives worth considering if you want organic clothes on a budget:
- Look for hand-me-downs: If you have friends or family members with older babies, ask if they have organic baby clothing they no longer use. This can be a great way to get organic garments for newborns on a budget.
- Purchase second-hand clothing: Some organic garments can come at a hefty cost. If you want to buy organic clothes on a budget, check out thrift or consignment stores. You might find high-quality organic gems at an affordable price.
- Buy in bulk: Consider purchasing organic clothes in bulk, as it could save you money in the long run.
Best Organic Baby Clothes Brands
Choosing the best baby clothing brands involves not just understanding the benefits and considerations but also identifying reliable brands that prioritize quality and sustainability. Here's a list of some of the best baby clothes brands known for their commitment to eco-friendly practices and ethical sourcing.
Makemake Organics
Makemake Organics is a sustainable and ethical brand that offers a variety of organic baby clothes, including onesies, rompers, dresses, swaddles, and pants. Their organic garments boast GOTS certification, so you can rest assured they're safe for your little one.
Plus, the brand champions fair labor practices and works with fair trade suppliers. So, when you purchase clothes from Makemake Organics, you'll not only reduce your ecological footprint but also promote the well-being of textile workers.
Finn + Emma
Finn + Emma embodies the essence of ethical and sustainable fashion for babies. The brand emphasizes sustainable practices, and their clothes are made from 100% organic cotton and environmentally friendly dyes, so you're guaranteed they're safe for your newborn.
The brand also prioritizes fair trade practices, providing consumers with assurance that their baby's clothing is not only safe but also ethically sourced and produced.
Kit & Kin
Kit & Kin is a Certified B Corporation that provides a wide range of baby clothes, including onesies, cardigans, and hats. Founded by Emma Bunton and Christopher Money, Kit & Kin’s organic baby clothes prioritize style and reduce environmental impact
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Their organic garments are made from sustainable, organic, and non-toxic materials, ensuring a cozy and safe experience for your little one. Beyond eco-conscious clothing, is also committed to protecting acres of rainforests worldwide, making it an excellent choice for parents looking to provide safe clothing for their little ones and support environmental conservation efforts.
Honest Baby Clothing
Honest Baby Clothing, a subsidiary of The Honest Company, isn't just a brand. It’s a company on a mission to provide safe and effective products for families. From rompers and dresses to tops and bottoms, the company offers a variety of organic garments for newborns.
And best of all? Each piece is meticulously crafted from GOTS-certified organic cotton, so you can sleep easy knowing the company’s garments are safe for your newborn.
Mightly
Founded by three moms with over four decades of combined experience in the fashion industry, Mightly was established to provide affordable, ethically produced and durable children's clothing. True to these ethos, Mightly offers clothing designed to withstand any adventure of energetic little ones while maintaining a delicate touch and adherence to ethical production standards.
From bodysuits and pajamas, Mightly offers various baby essentials catering to comfort and style. If you're looking for affordable baby clothes, check out their ''lightly loved'' section for great deals on clothes for newborns.
Boody
Boody is somewhat of an outlier. Unlike most newborn clothes brands that make garments primarily using organic cotton, Boody uses bamboo viscose. Boody's bamboo viscose clothes are incredibly soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making them great for infants.
Beyond sustainable clothing, Boody extends its eco-friendly and ethical practices to production. From producing minimal waste during production and using environmentally friendly packaging, Boody is committed to a sustainable supply chain. If you want a sustainable alternative to organic cotton baby clothes, the brand is a stellar option.
Manymoons
Manymoons is a Certified B Corp brand that prioritizes sustainable agriculture and ethical sourcing. With an emphasis on eco-friendly materials and certifications like GOTS and OEKO-TEX, their newborn clothing range includes timeless designs and enchanting prints.
As America's first circular retailer, Manymoons also prioritizes circularity through various initiatives, such as recycling clothing and providing lightly used second-hand clothing. If you want affordable organic baby clothes, check out the brand's pre-loved section for stylish pieces.
Hanna Andersson
Hanna Andersson is a household name in the children's clothing industry. For nearly four decades, the brand has offered sustainably made clothing made from organic materials. With certifications like the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), GOTS, and OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, you can rest easy knowing the brand's garments are safe for your little one.
Furthermore, Hanna Andersson is committed to fair trade practices, like providing workers with fair wages and safe working conditions, making it a stellar choice for consumers looking for high-quality clothing that's ethically produced.
MORI
MORI takes a unique approach to organic baby clothing. The brand combines organic cotton and bamboo viscose to create pieces that are exceptionally soft and gentle on delicate skin.
With a commitment to ethical practices, MORI prioritizes ethical sourcing and transparency, making it a good option for conscientious consumers. If you're looking for a sustainable alternative to organic cotton clothing with a minimalist feel, check out MORI.
Tabeeze
Tabeeze is a children's clothing brand dedicated to providing clothes that adhere to the most rigorous sustainable practices possible. As a Certified B Corporation that's GOTS certified, Tabeeze offers safe and comfortable organic cotton clothing for infants, including rompers, tees, and bodysuits.
And best of all? The brand's clothes have unique features, such as shoulder snaps and ankle-to-ankle zippers, that make dressing babies a breeze. These qualities make Tabeeze a compelling choice for parents who appreciate functional and stylish pieces.
Little Green Radicals
Little Green Radicals isn't just a baby clothing brand. It's a company on a mission to make the world better. The brand's vibrant clothes are made from GOTS certified organic cotton, so they're not only good for your baby but also for the planet.
Additionally, the brand is committed to fair trade practices, such as paying workers fair wages and providing safe working conditions. These qualities make the brand an excellent choice for consumers who appreciate a conscious approach to style.
FAQs
Which brand is best for newborn clothes?
Determining the best brands for newborn clothes depends on various factors such as preferences, priorities, and needs. However, some brands are often recommended because of their commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and quality. Some of the most popular and well-regarded brands for newborn clothes include Hanna Andersson, Finn + Emma, Kit & Kin, Honest Baby Clothing, and Little Green Radicals.
Where to buy quality baby clothes online?
You can buy baby clothes online from online retailers, thrift stores, or consignment stores. Some popular online organic baby clothing brands where you can buy high-quality baby clothes include Makemake Organics, Mightly, and Manymoons. You can also check out sustainable thrift stores like Swap, Patagonia Worn Wear, and Vestiaire Collective.
Are H&M baby clothes organic?
H&M states that its baby clothes are made from cotton that's organic, recycled, or sourced through the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). However, the BCI certification isn't as stringent as the GOTS certification.
Unlike GOTS certified organic cotton, BCI cotton supply chains aren't transparent. Additionally, BCI-certified cotton still permits the use of pesticides and genetic modifications to cotton. Worse still, BCI cotton has been linked to the use of forced labor. These issues might point to greenwashing.
How to choose newborn clothes?
Newborns have delicate skin and unique needs. So, when choosing newborn clothes, consider factors like the fabric, fit, features, season, and care instructions. Ideally, choose clothes made from soft, breathable organic fabrics like organic cotton, which are gentle on delicate skin and free from toxic chemicals.
What is trending in baby clothes?
More and more parents are becoming aware of the environmental impact of their purchases. As a result, many parents are seeking baby clothes made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and linen.
Additionally, as more people identify as gender-neutral, more parents are looking for gender-neutral clothing, allowing their babies to express themselves freely without being confined to traditional gender roles.
Conclusion
Organic clothes are an excellent choice for babies and the environment. They are made from soft, breathable fabrics that are gentle on delicate skin. They are also free from toxic chemicals, making them safe for toddlers. And, because organic clothes are made from sustainable materials and ethically produced, they are better for the planet and its people.
By choosing baby clothing brands committed to producing sustainable kids clothing, you'll not only protect your little one's well-being but also contribute to a healthier planet for your baby and posterity.
