How to choose the best (and most durable) fabrics for your baby capsule wardrobe
GETTING STARTED: WHICH FABRICS TO CHOOSE?
Capsule wardrobes are all the rage for adults, but what about babies? Creating a capsule wardrobe for your little one is a great way to reduce stress and simplify your life. But with so many different fabrics available, how do you choose the best one for your baby's needs? Read on for some tips on selecting the perfect fabric for your baby's capsule wardrobe.
1.
Choose breathable, natural fabrics that are be easy to care for.
COTTON
Remember the jingle? "The fabric of our lives..." ding! Cotton is probably the most common material for baby clothes--it's a natural, breathable fabric that feels soft and comfortable against baby's delicate skin. Look for organic cotton garments if you want to be sure that the fabric has been grown without the use of harmful pesticides or fertilizers--and, fun fact, organic cotton is more durable than traditionally grown because it has undergone less chemical processes.
WOOL
You want something that will be comfortable for them to wear, that will look good, and that will last. Wool, surprisingly, checks all of these boxes. It is a natural fiber that is naturally stain and bacteria resistant, moisture-wicking, and insulating. Washable wool is also easy to care for, so it will survive those inevitable messes and stains--you can wash and dry it with your other laundry. And wool is a great choice for both baby and toddler clothes; it can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
LINEN
Linen is derived from the flax plant, so it's a completely natural fiber. Flax thrives without pesticides and survives on rain water, making it one of the most sustainable fabrics on earth. Hypoallergenic and antibacterial, linen is a safe and healthy choice for baby and toddler clothes. It's also incredibly durable, ideal for clothes that will be worn frequently and washed often--and the fibers are woven loosely enough that stains are easily washed out. Breathable and absorbent, linen keeps your child cool and comfortable in warm weather while also protecting them from sun. But the best part? Linen gets softer with each wash, making it more comfortable to wear over time.
BAMBOO
Bamboo is an ideal fabric for baby and toddler clothes because it's extremely soft and durable. Bamboo is also hypoallergenic and hyper-soft, making it a good choice for children with sensitive skin or sensory issues--comfortable and perfect for everyday wear. Bamboo, when processed correctly, is a sustainable material that's gentle on the environment--just be sure you check its source. While it is often hailed as a more sustainable choice than other fabrics, not all bamboo is created equal. To choose the most sustainable fabric, look for bamboo that is certified organic and free of chemicals. Bamboo that has been processed using an eco-friendly method, such as mechanical pulping, is a better choice for the environment as well.
2.
Weave matters
What's the secret to finding clothes that will stand the test of time? It's all in the way it's woven. Avoid anything with stretch, as elastic fabrics tend to lose their shape and break down fastest. For tops, plain-weave is perfectly acceptable. Plain weave is, well...plain! It has no right or wrong side, is smooth to the touch, and has no stretch. When looking for durable bottoms, twill and denim are two of the most durable weaves you can find. Twill is a type of woven fabric with a diagonal pattern that is often used for shirts, pants (like khakis,) and skirts. It is made by passing the weft thread over and under two or more warp threads. Denim is also a sturdy woven fabric with a distinctively rough texture, often used for jeans, jackets, and shirts. In the cooler months, classic cotton corduroy is also a great choice. It was good enough for 19th century workwear, and it's good enough for your active kiddo! And in spite of its humble roots, corduroy can also be a great (and durable) fabric for dressier occasions.
3.
Stick with neutral colors
If you're looking to build a capsule wardrobe for your baby, choosing unisex or gender-neutral colors is a great place to start. Not only do they coordinate well with other pieces, they'll also allow you to create a minimalist look that's perfect for any season. AND you won't have to worry about your little one outgrowing their clothes too quickly - neutral colors never go out of style and can be passed down to future siblings, regardless of their gender. Some of our favorite unisex colors for baby clothes include white, cream, gray, beige and navy. The important thing is to choose colors that you love and that coordinate well together. With a little planning, you can create a stylish and practical capsule wardrobe for your baby that will last for months (or even years!) to come.
4.
Add a pop of color with fun prints or accessories
Don't be afraid to experiment with other shades, like pastels or brights, in your accessories. Cardigans, socks, shoes, hats, scarves and jackets in bright colors will look great over your neutral base colors, and keep your color-loving kiddo happy.
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about fabric for your baby’s capsule wardrobe. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Beya Made offers done-for-you capsule wardrobes that take the guesswork out of putting together a stylish and functional wardrobe for your little one. With our help, you can easily create a cohesive look that will make dressing your child a breeze. Ready to get started? Shop now and take the stress out of dressing your little one!
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