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What are the Pros and Cons of Organic Baby Clothing?

A. Rohlandt
A. Rohlandt

Organic baby clothing can benefit babies in various ways. It helps create softer fabric, is gentler on sensitive skin and helps cut down on allergic reactions. Organic clothing also tends to be more durable. The downsides associated with organic baby clothing are higher prices, and low availability.

There are many benefits to organic baby clothing, and one of the main benefits is the softness of the fabric. This is because organic cotton tends to have longer fibers and creates less friction. Babies' skin can be very sensitive, and softer fabrics will irritate their skin less.

Organic baby clothing is more durable and gentler on sensitive skin.
Organic baby clothing is more durable and gentler on sensitive skin.

Another important feature of organic baby clothing is that it contains no formaldehyde. Chemicals such as these are sometimes used as finishing agents on fabric. The use of formaldehyde in clothing has been linked to asthma and rashes, so organic clothing is a better choice for those with sensitive skin. It is also believed that organic fibers help babies suffering from eczema, especially if the garments are worn at night.

Organic baby clothing is generally very soft.
Organic baby clothing is generally very soft.

Babies under the age of two have thin skin, which can absorb chemicals from their clothing. Organically grown cotton is generally treated with low impact dyes and is grown without the use of chemicals. This helps prevent harmful chemicals from finding their way into the baby's bloodstream.

Cotton that is grown organically also has denser fibers and is more durable. Organic baby clothing tends to hold its shape better when washed. In the long run it can cut down on replacement costs. Since organic clothing is very durable, it can be passed onto the next child or be sold when it becomes too small

One of the main downsides to organic baby clothing is the high price. Availability is another factor since not all retailers stock organic clothing. There are ways, however, to make it easier and more affordable to obtain organic baby clothing. Shopping online can be a good way to get around the availability issue since online retailers ship to various locations. Communicating with other parents via online forums or chat rooms can also assist one in finding good deals and reputable retailers. Signing up for a retailer's newsletter is another good way to stay informed on new offerings.

Discussion Comments

Kat919

Another alternative for more natural baby clothes is to simply buy used clothes! These will not be organic usually, but since they have been worn and washed many times, the formaldehyde and other chemicals will likely have been washed out, and the fabric will be softer.

Buying used also has environmental benefits. The longer each item is kept in use, the fewer items have to be manufactured at all, which does cut down on pollution from their production.

Obviously, the ideal from an environmental standpoint would be organic baby things that are then reused for several babies. But if your budget doesn't permit you to buy organic, buying used (at thrift stores and consignment stores and special sales) is a great alternative.

organicbaby

Another benefit of organic cotton baby clothes is the impact on our soil, water, and air. Conventional cotton is one of the most heavily laden pesticide crops and by supporting organic clothing manufacturers, you help reduce the negative impact on our environment. Organic Baby Gift Boutique offers a selection of organic and eco baby products for those interested.

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    • Organic baby clothing is more durable and gentler on sensitive skin.
      By: Jeanne McRight
      Organic baby clothing is more durable and gentler on sensitive skin.
    • Organic baby clothing is generally very soft.
      By: JackF
      Organic baby clothing is generally very soft.