Playground to Planet: Eco Childrenswear

Polarn O Pyret

Organic cotton (and linen and hemp, which are less common on sale) are not just better for the planet than conventional cotton that uses chemicals. And are better for children’s skin, especially those with eczema. Organic cotton also lasts longer, as fibres have not been weakened by chemicals. And can be safely laundered in the washing machine.

For synthetic fibres (nylon, polyester or recycled plastic bottles), launder in a microfiber filter to stop plastics leaching from washing machines into the sea.

Also read our post on vegan footwear for children.

Tips for safe baby clothing (and bedding)

Obviously when dressing babies (including for sleep), there are safety caveats to consider, to help prevent risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). The Lullaby Trust has more info:

• Remove hats (and socks) indoors (including in cars), as babies lose heat through heads.
• It does not recommend weighted swaddles, blankets or sleeping bags for babies under one year, due to risk of overheating and restricted breathing from pressing on the chest. Do not use if a child’s head can pass through the neck opening, when fastened. Nor if a child can climb out of a cot.
• If you use a sleeping bag, don’t add extra blankets on top. Add an extra layer of clothing or choose a higher tog sleeping bag, if your baby feels cold.
• Ensure sleeping bags fit well around neck and shoulders, so babies can’t wriggle down inside, and follow maker’s tog guide for the right temperature.
• One blanket doubled over counts as two (this could increase overheating, so ensure an extra blanket is lightweight. Air trapped between layers increases warmth.
• It does not recommend co-sleeping, but to be in the same room for at least the first six months. Never let babies fall asleep on sofas/armchairs.
• Avoid cot bumpers (should be illegal to sell) and ‘cot clutter’ like toys or soft bedding. Use a firm flat new mattress and fitted (not flat) sheet: no pillows until at least 2 years old.
• To avoid ‘flat head syndrome’, give ‘supervised tummy time’ while awake.

On a budget? Consider renting clothing

• The Little Loop rents out clothing by good brands, to replace with bigger clothing as your child grows. This avoids waste, and enables you to afford better brands.
• Stripey Stork has a nationwide list of clothing banks, to help families in need (read above for safety if donating baby clothing).

Polarn o Pyret (lovely organic clothing from Sweden)

Polarn O Pyret offers Swedish organic children’s clothes. It also has a repairs service (just briefly say what the issue is with a photo and the label, and proof of purchase). Their Second Hand Main offers good trade-in prices for items that have grown out, with the ambition that each piece of their clothing is worn by three children.

Little Green Radicals (super-soft organic clothing)

Little Green Radicals offers super-soft organic cotton clothing, from this Fair Trade pioneer. The range includes lovely designs, including these fabulous organic cotton dungarees.

Toby Tiger (fun clothing inspired by the seaside)

Toby Tiger offers bright colourful clothing, from dungarees to party dresses, and even dribble bibs. The clothing features easy poppers, adjustable shoulder straps and super-soft reversible fabrics, with strips and appliques to tell a story for curious little imaginations. Everything’s inspired by the Brighton coast.

You can send back outgrown clothes (from any brand) using the return & earn service, for others to borrow (return labels are free). You then get a voucher for your next purchase. Join the Toby Tiger Club, for further discounts.

Kite Clothing (clothing inspired by the Dorset countryside)

Kite Clothing offers affordable organic clothing, in pretty designs inspired by the beautiful Dorset countryside. It also supplies organic clothing to a local hospital, based on advice for premature babies.

Ducky Zebra (fun positive clothing for children)

Ducky Zebra clothing has actual input from 50 children before designing items. Leftover fabrics are made into recycled yarn, or donated to charity.

Reloop Programme lets you send unwanted clothes to The Little Loop, and receive instant credit to redeem against orders.

Aneby (stylish children’s clothes from Shropshire)

Aneby offers stylish clothing from the heart of Shropshire, made ethically with premium fabrics. They are designed to mix-and-match in pretty neutral colours. Many are more generous to accommodate cloth nappies.

Items are made in limited numbers, to avoid fabric waste. All clothing is sent in plastic-free packaging, from compostable bags made from sugar cane, to paper or cardboard packaging.

The range includes:

• Dresses
• Tops
• T-shirts
• Dungarees
• Sweatshirts
• Jackets
• Hats

Aneby’s take back scheme

Once your child has outgrown an item, you can send a minimum of 3 items back to the company, and receive a voucher to redeem against future purchases. Any condition is fine (worn items are recycled into natural fabrics). Retain proof of postage.

This brand was founded by a fashion graduate and pattern stylist, who had worked for major companies. After gaining the technical knowledge, she used it to create more sustainable clothing for children.