In addition to being adorable, baby clothes require special care to keep them in good condition and ensure your little one's comfort and safety. Here are some key tips to keep your baby's clothes soft, clean and free of irritants.
1. Wash Clothes Before Wearing
Even if the clothes are new, it is important to wash them before putting them on your baby. During the manufacturing, transportation and storage process, garments can be exposed to dust, bacteria and chemicals. Pre-washing ensures that the garment is clean and free of any residue.
2. Use Mild, Fragrance-Free Detergent.
Baby's skin is extremely delicate and may react to harsh chemicals in conventional detergents. Opt for hypoallergenic detergents, designed specifically for babies, that do not contain strong fragrances or dyes. This will help avoid skin irritation.
3. Separate Baby Clothes
Although it may be tempting to wash all the clothes together to save time, it is advisable to wash baby clothes separately. The detergents and fabric softeners you use for adult clothes may not be suitable for baby's sensitive skin. Also, washing your baby's clothes separately prevents them from getting mixed with items that may have tougher stains or more soiling.
4. Opt for a Gentle Wash Cycle
Baby clothes are often made of delicate materials such as cotton or bamboo, which require a gentle wash cycle to prevent them from wearing out quickly. Use warm or cold water to wash clothes, as hot water may shrink some garments and damage fibers.
5. Takes Care of Spots Quickly
Stains are inevitable when you have a baby, whether from milk, food or small “accidents”. To prevent stains from setting, it is best to treat them immediately. Soak the garment in cold water with a little mild detergent before washing. Avoid using aggressive stain removers that may irritate the baby's skin.
6. Avoid using fabric softeners.
Fabric softeners can leave residue on clothes that can be irritating to baby's skin. If you want your clothes to be soft, try adding white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar acts as a natural softener and leaves no harmful residue.
7. Don't Overload the Washing Machine
To prevent baby's delicate garments from stretching or becoming misshapen, do not overfill the washing machine. This will allow the clothes enough room to move around and be washed effectively.
8. Air Drying or Low Temperature Dryer Drying
If possible, air-dry baby clothes, as the sun can also help to naturally disinfect garments. If you prefer to tumble dry, be sure to use a low temperature or delicate cycle, as excessive heat can shrink or wear out garments.
9. Store Clothes in a Clean, Dry Place
Once washed and dried, store your baby's clothes in a cool, dry place. Avoid places with high humidity to prevent mildew or bad odors. If you have clothes that won't be worn right away, such as larger sizes, place them in cloth bags or organizer boxes to keep them clean.
10. Check Care Labels
Each garment may have specific washing requirements, so before washing, check the labels to be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions. This is especially important with more delicate garments, such as coats or clothes with details like lace or embroidery.
11. Second Hand Baby Clothes: Special Care
If you are going to use second-hand or borrowed clothes, it is advisable to wash them more carefully, even if they appear to be clean. Soak garments in hot water with hypoallergenic detergent before regular laundering to be sure to remove any residue or bacteria.
12. Avoid Frequent Ironing
Most baby clothes do not require ironing, and in fact, exposing them to high temperatures too often can wear out the fibers. If you prefer to iron, do so at a low temperature and be sure to use a cloth between the iron and the garment to avoid burns.
Sincerely: Baby Yup!
