The Complete Guide to Bamboo Baby Clothes
Bamboo baby clothes are the sh*t. They’ve become increasingly popular because they’re soft AF and (maybe) eco-friendly…more on that later. If you’re considering buying bamboo baby clothes, the short answer is, “Yeah, you should do that.”
But as with anything in life, there are some cons to bamboo. We’ll cover the pros, the cons, and everything else you need to know when shopping for bamboo baby clothes. Now, let’s get that baby dressed.
How Are Bamboo Baby Clothes Made?
Bamboo is made from the pulp of the bamboo plant. The bamboo stalks can be broken down into pulp through mechanical or chemical processes. Those fibers are then spun into yarn, which is used to make fabric.
Are Bamboo Baby Clothes Eco-Friendly?
Bad news here—probably not. While bamboo is a highly sustainable resource, bamboo fabric often does not use sustainable manufacturing practices. Making bamboo fabric takes a lot of water and usually requires harsh chemicals. Plus, bamboo baby clothes tend to be less durable.
The silver lining? Bamboo fabric is biodegradable. At least there’s that.
Where to Find the Best Bamboo Baby Clothes
If you’re going to buy bamboo baby clothes (and let’s be real, you will), here’s where you should buy them.
Angel Dear: Angel Dear is one of the absolute best baby brands on the market. I am willing to die on this hill (...of old age cause nobody’s gonna fight me on it. We all know Angel Dear is LEGIT).
Little Sleepies: They’re cute. They’re soft. And the mom next to you at baby carrier aerobics is gonna say, “Is that Little Sleepies?” because she has it, too.
Why You Should Choose Bamboo Baby Clothes
Here are the top 4 reasons to include bamboo in your baby’s wardrobe.
Soft, soft, soft: Bamboo baby clothes are probably the softest options. They’re fun to give as a gift and to receive or buy yourself because it’s thrilling to dress baby in a onesie that’s as soft as butter.
Hypoallergenic: Bamboo fabric is naturally hypoallergenic, making it gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin.
Moisture-wicking: Bamboo has natural moisture-wicking properties, keeping your baby dry and comfortable.
Lightweight: Bamboo baby clothes tend to be pretty lightweight, making them ideal for warmer climates (or layering).
The Cons of Bamboo Baby Clothes
Real talk. Here’s what you should know before you buy.
Less durable: These will not be heirloom pieces. Your baby may wear through their bamboo sleepers' knees and/or elbows.
Sheer: Bamboo baby clothes tend to be thinner, so it’s more likely that you’ll be able to peek the pattern on baby’s diaper through bamboo baby pants.
Lightweight: Yup, this one is a pro and a con. Bamboo baby clothes tend to be super breathable and thin. If it’s chilly, your baby will need a hat… and maybe a sweater.
Is Bamboo Better Than Cotton for Babies?
Bamboo has several advantages over cotton, particularly regarding environmental impact and the natural properties of the fabric. Bamboo uses less water and grows faster than cotton, making it more sustainable. Its natural moisture-wicking and thermal-regulating properties make it an excellent choice for baby clothes.
Is Bamboo Fabric Safe for Babies?
Yes, bamboo fabric is safe for babies. Its natural hypoallergenic properties make it gentle on sensitive skin, and its antibacterial nature helps to keep it clean. However, it's essential to choose bamboo baby clothes from reputable brands that use safe, non-toxic processes to transform the bamboo into fabric.
Can You Dry Bamboo Baby Clothes?
Yes, you can dry bamboo baby clothes, but it's best to do so gently. Bamboo fabric benefits from air drying, which helps maintain its softness and durability. If you must use a dryer (and most parents will say that’s non-negotiable), opt for a low heat setting to prevent shrinkage and to preserve the fabric's integrity.