When it comes to making clothes for babies, there are certain criteria that must be met in order to ensure the safety and comfort of the child. These criteria include absorbency, breathability, and biodegradability. Not only is it important to consider the environmental aspects of the fabrics used, but also the potential toxins that can be exposed to when wearing certain materials. In addition to being largely biodegradable in their pure forms, many rural and artisanal communities depend on the income they receive from the materials used to make baby clothes.
When it comes to clothing for boys, there are a variety of options available. Dresses for little girls, jumpsuits and rompers, ruffled or embroidered robes, hats, blouses, pants, small skirts, shorts - there are many options and the best fabrics are needed for all of them. When buying or borrowing baby clothes, look for cotton material to place close to your baby's sensitive skin. Cotton clothing will keep the baby cooler in hot weather than clothes made of synthetic fibers.
Muslin is generally used to make cloth diaper covers, diapers, burp cloths, etc. instead of clothing, since it doesn't look very glamorous. You can also get clothing for babies that are specially designed to block the sun and that indicate the amount of protection it provides. As your baby begins to move more freely, clothing that allows them to move freely is a practical option. The thin muslin is ideal for making baby clothes since there is no more breathable fabric than this one as it is 100% cotton.
The type of camel used - the Bactrian camel - sheds its hair naturally which means that the possibility of pain for the camel is reduced. Other popular knitted fabrics for making children's clothing include interlacing, double knitting and cotton elastane. When choosing fabric for baby clothes it is important to avoid synthetic fabrics as they can irritate a baby's skin. Wool and other fabrics can also irritate a baby's skin so it is best to use these fabrics as outer layers. For a complete guide to organic clothing for children, see my post on organic clothing for babies and children.
