Washing clothes for a new arrival can feel a bit daunting. But fear not, with a few simple tips, your little one's wardrobe will stay fresh and irritation-free. Here's a breakdown of some common questions to get you started:
Q: Should I wash all baby clothes at 60 degrees Celsius?
A: Not necessarily. Always check the care label on each garment. Some items may require cooler washes to prevent shrinkage or fading. Look for symbols that indicate recommended temperature and washing cycles. More importantly, modern detergents are highly effective at lower temperatures. Washing at 60 degrees is only necessary in specific situations, like for heavily soiled items or cloth diapers.
Q: What kind of detergent should I use?
A: Gentle is key! Skip harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate a baby's delicate skin. Opt for a natural washing detergent or one that is approved by your national allergy association. These detergents are formulated to be gentle on sensitive skin and avoid using perfumed detergents or fabric softeners. These can leave a residue on clothes that can irritate your baby's skin.
Q: Are there any special considerations for drying?
A: Yes! Extreme heat can damage clothes and irritate skin. Whenever possible, air dry baby clothes on a drying rack or line. If you must use a dryer, use the low heat setting.
Q: What fabrics are best for babies?
A: Look for soft, breathable materials. Organic cotton is always a good choice, as it's free of harmful chemicals and pesticides. Soothla also offers a fantastic range of lyocell clothing, which is naturally soft, breathable, and perfect for sensitive baby skin and eczema.
Here are some additional tips for keeping baby clothes clean and gentle:
- Wash new clothes before baby wears them. This removes any residual chemicals or dyes from the manufacturing process.
- Turn clothes inside out before washing. This helps protect delicate details and fastenings.
- Pre-treat stains as soon as possible. The sooner you tackle a stain, the easier it will be to remove.
- Don't overload the washing machine. This allows clothes to move freely and get properly cleaned.
- Avoid using fabric softener and dryer sheets. These can leave a residue that irritates baby's skin.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your baby's clothes clean, comfortable, and gentle on their delicate skin.
