For new parents and those preparing to become parents, few things are more adorable than a cute midget outfit. Mommies simply melt when they walk through the baby clothes aisles, with emotions in their chests and often with tears in their eyes. These clothes will dress the frail body of children in their first months or first years of life, like a warm and long-lasting hug.
But, one thing that attracts little attention is the quality of the clothes we put on the sensitive skin of our babies. Many non-organic clothes that we find online or in classic stores today have been treated with industrial chemicals that can be harmful.
Since the 1950s, these chemicals have become more widespread, and today they are used in millions of consumer products, including food, clothing, cosmetics, cleaning products and toys.
Most of these have never been tested for safety and have been associated with an increase in conditions in infants in the first 3 decades, including asthma, obesity, learning disabilities, autism and diabetes.
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The skin of babies and small children is thinner and more vulnerable
If you looked in your closet with clothes, you would notice that most of them are made of cotton, and that's okay. But when it comes to your baby, it's important to remember that his skin is thinner, more delicate and absorbs chemicals more easily. Considering that cotton is one of the most heavily treated crops in the world, you cannot be sure that non-organic cotton baby clothes do not contain pesticides.
The Johnson and Johnson website says:
"A baby's skin is thinner, more fragile and less oily than an adult's. Also, a baby's skin produces less melanin, the substance that helps protect against sunburn. It is less resistant to bacteria and harmful substances in the environment , especially if it's irritated. Plus, babies sweat less efficiently than us adults, so it's harder for them to maintain their core body temperature. "
All of this means that babies are at greater risk of pesticide-related health problems compared to adults.
But ecological clothing uses materials that are not grown conventionally. No pesticides are used, but other safer methods for crop production (such as crop rotation, use of beneficial insects to counteract problems, etc.). Therefore, the final product is a toxin-free (cotton) fabric.
Babies and infants are particularly sensitive to toxic chemicals. The impact is greater in early development - during pregnancy and early childhood - because:
- They experience a greater exposure relative to their body size and given their more permeable skin, infants absorb much more from their environment than adults. This is exacerbated by their behaviors as they constantly put things in their mouths and explore the environment.
- They are more vulnerable. Because their bodies and brains are still developing, they are less able than adults to naturally break down or eliminate chemicals absorbed into the body. Their development process is delicate and can be easily interrupted.
The US National Academy of Sciences summarized this sensitivity of children to toxic chemicals in a 1993 report, concluding: "children are not like adults.".
The skin of newborns is more permeable. A large part of what children absorb into their bodies happens through the skin (the rest is food, liquid and air). The skin is our largest organ. It protects us, helps regulate body temperature and plays many other essential functions. It also absorbs a lot of what we put on it.
Babies have thinner and more permeable skin than adults. Although they still have 3 layers, each layer is thinner. The epidermis, for example, is 3-5 times thinner than in the case of an adult and is made up of smaller cells.
That is why the skin of small children is less resistant, and the substances that come into contact with it are more easily absorbed and penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin.
How to choose clothes that respect your baby's skin?
Awareness related to organic foods has increased among parents in recent years. However, the message about the impact of chemically treated baby clothes did not spread as quickly, despite the potential long-term consequences for the health of infants. In recent years, scientists have discovered the widespread use of potentially harmful chemicals in children's clothing.
Most of the clothes we find in stores today are usually made of non-organic cotton, polyester (and other synthetic fibers) or a combination of these. Here's why this is a problem.
Conventional, non-organic cotton is often called "the dirtiest crop in the world: because it uses about 16% of the world's insecticides and 7% of pesticides.
On the other hand, polyester and synthetic fibers are derived from petroleum and are treated with thousands of potentially harmful chemicals during production.
The best and safest alternative for babies and children is clothes made of certified organic cotton or clothes made of natural materials such as merino wool, silk, organic bamboo or muslin.
Organic cotton is grown naturally and sustainably, without herbicides, pesticides or any other harmful chemicals. Choosing organic products means limiting your baby's exposure to potentially harmful chemicals found in non-organic clothes.
Why should you love our clothes made from natural materials?
1. Natural materials are soft and so suitable for babies' delicate skin. Moreover, organic materials such as muslin do not become rougher after washing, on the contrary, they become even softer.
2. Natural materials are breathable. Unlike clothes made of synthetic materials, those made of organic materials allow the baby's delicate skin to breathe. The heat is not retained, thus favoring irritation, sweating and discomfort, but fresh air can penetrate through the natural materials.
3. Our clothes made of ecological materials are ideal for sensitive skin. Many newborns and babies have sensitive skin prone to eczema, and this causes them pain and great discomfort. But natural materials such as muslin and organic cotton are perfect fabrics for delicate skin, including the face and neck.
4. Annebebe clothes made of natural materials are durable over time. They are durable and withstand very well prolonged use and many washes. Several parents have told us that they have been able to use our quality parts with several generations of children.
5. Natural materials are very absorbent, and here we are talking especially about textile diapers or bibs. Some parents use these pieces to even wipe the baby's nose, because the material is less irritating compared to others.
6. Many items made of natural materials have a natural elastic property, which makes them easy to wear and wear. In addition, for example, muslin diapers are excellent for changing because they are not very restrictive, but slightly elastic.
Clothing friendly to nature and gentle on children's skin
In modern society, more and more parents are turning their attention to children's clothes that are made of natural materials of a superior quality.
This trend is not only associated with the latest fashion trends for children, but is a very good decision for the health and comfort of the little ones. Discover the benefits offered by clothing made of natural materials and offer your child the best quality clothing!
Organic cotton products, ideal for your little one
Like organic fruits and vegetables, organic cotton is grown without toxic chemicals, harmful pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or genetic engineering, ensuring a smaller impact on the environment and a healthier crop.
Organic cotton brings many benefits to baby's skin. It is an excellent choice for the baby's delicate skin, especially for little ones with eczema. In fact, the American Eczema Association emphasizes that fabric is the most important aspect to consider when looking for skin-friendly clothing.
The top choice should be 100% organic cotton, which is less likely to contain allergens and formaldehyde resins. In addition, organic cotton is soft, breathable and does not irritate the skin as much as other fabrics.
This is especially important for infants, because they have a higher ratio of skin surface to body volume, and their skin is 30% thinner than that of an adult. These things make them more vulnerable to the absorption of chemical substances.
Natural fabrics, such as organic cotton, are super breathable, and this helps baby stay cool and comfortable. The Sleep Foundation has noticed that organic cotton tends to be more breathable than regular cotton, and this is especially essential for little ones who don't do so well with regulating their body temperature.
By the way, a baby's body temperature rises much faster than yours - and babies and children sweat less, which greatly hinders their ability to cool down. In addition, their sweat glands are not yet fully developed so they are more prone to rashes or uncomfortable heat.
That's why it's so important to choose quality clothes made of natural materials for your baby.
Do you think organic cotton clothes are more expensive? Ok, but also consider that these clothes are totally worth the investment! Sleep Foundation experts note that organic bedding can be more durable than other non-organic materials, blends and synthetic materials, because organic cotton fibers are not damaged and weakened by harsh chemical processing.
A report in the Journal of Consumer Marketing found that the driving force behind consumers buying organic products is the "organic" quality with which they have become synonymous.
Organic cotton is actually healthier!
In 1977, the US banned the production of chemicals called polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, due to health concerns, including possible skin rashes, nose and lung irritation, fatigue and more. But because PCBs are an unintended byproduct of manufacturing, these chemicals can leach into other products, such as baby and children's clothing.
The good news is that organic cotton clothes for babies and children contain much less of these chemicals.
A small study conducted recently, in 2022, by the journal Environmental Pollution examined 10 baby bodysuits and found that organic cotton bodysuits contained substantially lower levels of PCBs compared to regular cotton bodysuits. The researchers said that the levels of PCBs detected did not translate into a significant health risk for infants and young children, but wrote that the health risks should be further evaluated in the future.
Did you know that non-organic cotton is the 4th largest user of pesticides worldwide? Many of the insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and more used in the production of conventional cotton have been associated with a number of environmental and health problems, according to a 2020 report.
On the other hand, in the production of organic cotton, no toxic chemicals such as pesticides and insecticides are used and less water is used (research even shows that organic cotton production practices can reduce water consumption by up to 91%).
Additionally, 40% of organic cotton farmers surveyed reported an increase in beneficial organisms on their farms once they started organic farming. In conclusion: organic cotton farming leads to healthier crops and healthier products for our children, from their first days of life.
When it comes to children's wardrobe, it is recommended to pay attention to products made of organic materials, including cotton or wool.
Parents who opt for aknitted blanket for a pink Kity Kate crib or a cream jumpsuit with a Baby Dola hat will also contribute to reducing the negative impact on the environment, making an eco-friendly choice.
Clothes with oeko tex standard - an innovation in clothing for baptism
As you already know, at important events you tend to opt for unique outfits for your children. Well, the same thing happens when it comes to baptism, an unforgettable moment in your family life. Have you heard of Oeko-Tex standard clothes?
This certification guarantees that textile products are safe for babies and do not contain harmful substances that could irritate the delicate skin of newborns.
A conclusive example in this sense is represented by the Serban costume of vest, white shirt, navy blue and red christening picks. The set has oeki-tex certification, ensuring the quality of each individual piece.
Clothes made of recycled material, an eco-friendly choice
Clothes made from recycled materials are not only a responsible choice, but also an active contribution to protecting the environment. The pieces that are made from recycled materials combine the aesthetic side with the functional side, being a suitable option for your children's wardrobe.
These can be found in a varied range of shades and textures, and the recycled materials are as resistant as possible, an important aspect for parents. The red Ecosez dress with short sleeves with collar and bow is also part of the category of eco-friendly products, an item from the Mayoral collection that cannot go unnoticed, thanks to its charming design.
Merino wool, a raw material of the best quality
If you are looking for a magical material that will keep your baby warm in winter, but which will be cool and dry throughout the year, merino wool is the answer. This type of wool is so fine that it feels like cashmere, and if you've ever worn a merino wool sweater or snuggled up under a blanket made of this material, you'll understand why nothing compares and feels just like this.
Merino wool is a versatile product for several reasons:
- It can help regulate body temperature by eliminating sweat in the summer and keeping warmth between its fibers in the winter.
- Fights sweat and mold odors by absorbing odor-causing bacteria
- It is hypoallergenic and does not cause itching, which makes it wonderful for babies with sensitive skin.
- It has antistatic properties, is resistant to wrinkling and keeps its shape.
- It is lightweight and can last for many years if properly cared for.
Merino wool clothes are considered safe for babies' skin thanks to their natural softness, breathability and ability to regulate body temperature. Being a hypoallergenic natural fiber, merino wool is less likely to cause irritation or allergies, as often happens with synthetic materials. That is why it is a gentler and safer choice for babies' delicate skin.
If you are concerned that your baby could overheat in his clothes, this wonderful fabric can help you. This is because merino wool can absorb up to 30% of its dry weight before it becomes wet, so merino wool clothing and bed linens prevent the baby's discomfort due to overheating.
Did you know that merino wool clothes can improve the baby's sleep routine? Medical studies have proven that merino improves sleep patterns in infants and small babies. At the Cambridge Maternity Hospital, in 1979, in a study by Scott and Richards, it was shown that babies who slept on merino linen calmed down faster, cried less, ate better and gained weight faster.
The same medical studies on the effect of merino wool on premature and low birth weight babies found that they gained 10 grams more per day, compared to babies who slept on linen made of synthetic materials.
Merino wool clothes do not predispose babies to allergies, as happens with those made of synthetic materials. Merino wool is soft and silky and does not cause itching. It can respond to temperature changes and is one of the most comfortable materials in which you can dress your baby.
Our merino wool clothes contain natural flame retardants and further contribute to protecting children's health. They are easy to wash and care for. In addition, merino fibers have a natural protective outer layer that helps prevent stain absorption, making them easy for your messy little ones to wear. Because merino resists odors, bacteria and stains, you don't have to wash clothes as often and as rigorously as those made of synthetic materials.
For all these reasons and many more, our merino wool clothes are a wonder. Merino wool is an incredible material that has evolved over a million years to help us create the perfect sleep, play, growth and development environment for young children.
The autumn-winter season comes not only with changes in nature, but also with lower and lower temperatures. Upgrade your children's wardrobe and don't forget to add merino wool pieces, a top raw material.
The clothes will not only ensure the thermal comfort of the little ones, but also have a unique design. Leo King knitted woolen zip-up jumpsuits are must-have pieces for babies, as they are a symbol of style for them.
More Leo Link products here.
And for woolen clothes, access this link .
For those days when the weather is not on your side, but you still want to go for a walk with your little one, you have the right clothes at hand. Dress it up with a knitted merino wool jumpsuit and it will be appropriately dressed for the cool weather outside.
Besides the fact that wool offers excellent thermal insulation, this material also stands out for its very beautiful appearance, highlighting the beauty and tenderness of newborn babies.
More knitted clothes and accessories for babies - HERE
Organic muslin pieces, suitable for babies
Are you among the new mothers looking for the best quality textile accessories for babies? Well, the specialists recommend that you turn your attention to muslin pieces, a fabric appreciated for its light, soft and breathable texture.
Organic muslin is made from materials such as cotton, and the products made from this fabric will not cause irritation or allergies to the little ones. Known for its properties, muslin is light and allows air to circulate freely, maintaining a comfortable temperature for children.
Moreover, we are talking about a material with a very high capacity to absorb water. Turn your attention to the set of 3 cream baby diapers made of organic muslin and you will keep the baby's skin dry!
Many organic cotton clothes at this link .
Silk, a symbol of refinement
Silk is considered to be a standard of refinement since ancient times. Natural silk fibers are also often used when it comes to making children's clothes, especially in special outfits that they can wear in different important moments in life, such as a party, a birthday, a baptism ceremony or a lavish wedding.
Are you among the mothers of little girls who want them to have the best and most beautiful things from the first months of life? Then how about opting for an ivory Catholic dress made of silk for baptism ?
The dress will complete the princess look of your little one, a fact that can only delight you, right?
Therefore, choosing clothes made of natural materials is always a very good idea. The pieces not only ensure comfort for the little ones, but also contribute to protecting the environment. Carefully analyze the varied range of products and opt for those items that will suit your children perfectly!
At Annebebe, we also know parental care when it comes to safety and healthy choices for our children
As parents, the safety, comfort and health of our children are a priority and we are convinced that this is also true for you, dear parent.
That's why our clothes made of natural materials for babies are made to make your baby feel safe, comfortable and warm enough. Clothing made from natural materials is the right step in the direction of well-being throughout your little one's life.
Of course, in this process, you also do your part for the world, helping the planet, using safe and durable clothing.