Why Some ‘100% Cotton’ Baby Night Suits Still Irritate: A Fabric Investigation

Parents often pick 100% cotton clothes, thinking they’re the safest for their baby’s skin. But here’s what surprises many - even after choosing cotton night suit set, their little one still ends up with rashes, redness, or itching. If you’ve faced this, it doesn’t mean your baby has “sensitive skin” by default. The real reason lies in what happens to the fabric long before it reaches your home:-

1. “100% Cotton” Isn’t Always 100% Pure

When a label says “100% cotton,” it only means the fibres used are cotton. But that does not cover the dozens of treatments the fabric goes through such as bleaching, dyeing, softening & sometimes even chemical coating to make it wrinkle-free. Many of these processes use harmful substances that can stay trapped in the threads. Since a baby’s skin is about 30% thinner than an adult’s, even small traces of these chemicals can cause irritation or allergies.

2. The Way Cotton Is Woven Matters

Not all cotton fabrics breathe the same way. Some are woven tightly for a smoother texture, but that can trap heat and sweat. Babies sleep longer hours & when the fabric doesn’t allow enough airflow, it leads to small heat rashes or prickly spots.

3. Incorrect Washing Habits

Even the purest cotton can become harsh if washed the wrong way. Many detergents leave residue that clings to the threads, and regular fabric softeners can coat the cloth with synthetic fragrance and chemicals. Always use mild baby-safe detergents and rinse twice. Avoid strong fragrances or bright-coloured detergents. Those can be irritants too.

4. Not All Cotton Is Grown the Same Way

There’s a big difference between organic cotton and regular cotton. Organic cotton is grown without pesticides or chemical dyes. It is also processed gently, making it safer for delicate skin. On the other hand, conventional cotton might carry pesticide traces that don’t wash off easily. Look for certifications when choosing nightwear. This ensures the fabric is tested for harmful substances.

How to Choose Better Night Suits

When you buy online kids goods in India, always go beyond the label.

●  Prefer light, natural shades over dark or printed ones.

●  Smell the fabric; a chemical odour means it’s treated.

● Feel the texture. Overly smooth cotton often has a chemical finish.

●  And if your baby’s skin is extra sensitive, you can even go for personalised night suits for baby made from organic cotton.

For parents who love playful prints, choose safe dyes when picking a cartoon cotton night suit. The colours should not come from synthetic pigments.

Choosing What Truly Matters for Your Baby

Not all cotton is created equal and at Polkas & Stripes, we understand that down to the finest thread. We design and source every cotton night suit with your little one’s skin in mind, using soft, breathable cotton, gentle processing free from harsh finishes, thoughtful weaves that allow comfort and airflow, and playful prints that don’t compromise on purity.

Not just night suits but our entire range of baby and kids' essentials reflect the same commitment. Every piece is built for comfort, safety and style. Because when you choose us, you are choosing trust & quality.

FAQs

1. Why does my baby still get rashes from cotton nightwear?
 Because cotton can still carry chemical residues from bleaching & dyeing used during processing

2. How do I know if cotton is safe for my baby?
 Look for certifications and choose natural, pastel shades with no chemical smell

3. What’s the best fabric weave for baby night suits?
Cotton is soft, breathable & ideal for sensitive skin