Non-Toxic Living: Kids’ Clothing (& Best Brands)
"Fashion fades, only style remains."
—Coco Chanel
My jorts from back in the day came back, just as mullets, scrunchies, and fanny packs have resurfaced in recent years.
We know that fashion, even children’s fashion, is cyclical and trends ebb and flow with the seasons, but one fundamental consideration remains consistent: the materials that this clothing and accessories are made of. With their still-developing immune systems and delicate skin, children are uniquely susceptible to the harmful substances often lurking in conventional clothing.
Against this backdrop, the quest for non-toxic kids' clothing is now a cornerstone of responsible parenting. By prioritizing garments crafted from organic materials and free from harmful chemicals, caregivers can not only protect their children's health but also make a statement about their values in an increasingly conscious consumer landscape.
Non-Toxic Kids’ Clothing
When it comes to kids' clothing, it's crucial to prioritize their health and well-being due to their more vulnerable bodies. Children's immune systems are still developing, and their skin and bones are softer and thinner than those of adults. This makes them more susceptible to the harmful effects of chemicals and toxins commonly found in clothing.
In light of these vulnerabilities, selecting non-toxic kids' clothing becomes imperative. Picking garments made from organic cotton or other natural fibers can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals. These materials are free from pesticides and synthetic additives, offering a safer and more environmentally conscious choice for children's clothing.
Toxins In Clothing
The prevalence of toxins in children's clothing presents a concerning reality.
One 2014 lab testing sample of 297 children’s clothing from 14 large retail stores found the following toxins in them:
Antimony (found in 72% of fabrics): This metal is a known carcinogen and is often found in clothing with printed designs, flame-retardant properties, and even plastic bibs.
Lead (48%)
Cobalt (38%)
Phthalates (32%)
Some of the reasons that these chemicals are in children’s clothing are because of their intended functionalities like flame resistance, water repellency, and wrinkle-free properties. Unfortunately, these functionalities often come at the cost of using potentially harmful chemicals during the manufacturing process.
Therefore, be vigilant and selective when buying clothes to prevent them from absorbing toxins that have been linked to hormonal disruptions, developmental delays, behavioral issues, and even cancer.
A Guide To Non-Toxic Kids’ Clothing
What to Avoid:
Synthetic Fabrics: Avoid clothing made from synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, which often contain harmful chemicals and do not biodegrade easily.
Formaldehyde: Steer clear of clothing treated with formaldehyde, commonly used to prevent wrinkles and shrinkage, as it can irritate the skin and respiratory system.
Heavy Metals: Check labels to avoid clothing containing heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury, which can be harmful if absorbed through the skin or ingested.
Flame Retardants: Refrain from purchasing flame-retardant clothing, as these often contain toxic chemicals like brominated flame retardants (BFRs), which have been associated with adverse health effects.
Pesticides: Avoid clothing made from conventionally grown cotton, as it may contain pesticide residues harmful to children's health and the environment.
Non-Transparent Brands: Be cautious of brands that lack transparency regarding their production processes and materials, as they may be using harmful substances without your knowledge.
What to Look For:
Organic Materials: Seek garments made from certified organic materials, such as organic cotton or bamboo, to minimize exposure to pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Natural Dyes: Look for clothing dyed with natural, plant-based dyes rather than synthetic dyes, which can contain toxic substances and allergens.
Certifications: Prioritize clothing certified by reputable organizations like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, which ensure the materials used meet strict non-toxic standards.
Minimal Finishes: Select clothing with minimal finishes and treatments, avoiding items treated with wrinkle-resistant, stain-resistant, or flame-retardant chemicals.
Transparency: Look for brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes and materials used, allowing you to make informed decisions about the safety of the clothing.
Consider Hand-Me-Downs: Hand-me-downs have the advantage of already being washed multiple times, which can help remove any residual chemicals from the fabric.
Best Non-Toxic Clothing Brands For Kids
1. L’ovedbaby
Best for: Fun, seasonal, and themed collections in organic cotton.
Ages: 0M–10Y
Features:
Uses GOTS-certified organic cotton in many of their collections.
Offers unique and playful designs for special occasions and holidays.
Focuses on comfort and softness for babies and toddlers.
Use “MBD20” for 20% off your purhchase.
2. Colored Organics
Best for: Vibrant colors and playful patterns
Ages: 0M-6Y
Features
GOTS-certified organic cotton
Sustainable and eco-friendly practices
Fairtrade practices
3. finn + emma
Best for: Wide selection of soft palette clothing.
Ages: 0M-4Y
Features:
GOTS-certified organic cotton for fabrics and yarns
Eco-friendly dyes
They also sell non-toxic toys, rockers, baby gyms, and more.
4. Hanna Andersson
Best for: Soft, comfortable staples and playful prints.
Ages: 0M-14Y
Features:
GOTS-certified organic cotton for many of their clothing lines.
Focus on classic styles and timeless designs.
Offers extended sizing from baby to teenager.
Use the link for 20% off your first order.
5. Burt’s Bees Baby
Best for: Affordable, everyday organic cotton essentials and giftable sets.
Ages: 0M-14Y
Features:
100% GOTS-certified organic cotton in many of their styles.
Wide range of coordinating pajamas and outfits.
Focus on playful prints and patterns.
6. Boden
Best for: Colorful, trendy, and well-made everyday wear.
Ages: 12M-14Y
Features:
Uses a mix of organic and non-organic cotton, with transparency about materials.
Offers unique and stylish prints and designs.
Known for their high quality and durability.
7. Crann Organics
Best for: Everyday essentials and comfortable basics for babies and children.
Ages: 0M-12Y
Features:
100% GOTS-certified organic cotton
Soft and breathable fabrics: Gentle on sensitive skin and comfortable for everyday wear.
Committed to fair labor practices and responsible production.
Sustainable practices
