← All parent guides

Clothing for a baby with sensitive skin

Start with the fabric

Smooth, breathable fabrics are the safest default: cotton, bamboo viscose and TENCEL lyocell. Wool and synthetic fleece can be warm and useful, but put a cotton layer next to the skin if the baby is prone to irritation.

Seams, labels and fastenings

• Flat seams or seams on the outside.
• Cut out or printed care labels; avoid scratchy woven ones at the neck.
• Covered zips and poppers that do not sit against the skin.

Washing

• Wash new clothes before the first wear.
• Use a fragrance-free, dye-free detergent and skip fabric conditioner.
• An extra rinse helps remove detergent residue.
• Wash at the temperature the care label allows; hot washes can set some irritants in.

When to ask for help

If a rash persists, spreads or comes with broken skin, see a pediatrician or dermatologist. This page is general information, not medical advice.