How to Care for Handmade Baby Clothes

October 24 2024 – Lottie & Lysh

Puffin baby and toddler romper by Lottie & Lysh

Washing Tips to Keep Them Looking Their Best

Handmade baby clothes are often special for many reasons. Whether they’re crafted from sustainable fabrics, gifted by a loved one, or bought as part of an ethical baby brand, these pieces are more than just clothing – they’re part of your baby’s journey. To keep these precious outfits looking their best for as long as possible, proper care is essential.

In this blog post, we’ll share helpful washing tips to maintain the beauty and quality of handmade baby clothes, ensuring they stay soft, vibrant, and in great condition throughout your little one’s early years.

Check the Label First

Each handmade garment may have different care requirements depending on the fabric used. Whether it's organic cotton, bamboo, or a blend of natural fibres, start by reading any care instructions on the label. If you're unsure, it’s always a safe bet to wash the clothing on a gentle cycle using cold water, which helps to preserve both the fabric and any delicate details like embroidery, prints, or embellishments.

Use a Gentle Detergent

When it comes to washing baby clothes, especially handmade ones, always opt for a gentle, baby-safe detergent that’s free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. Strong detergents can cause irritation to your baby’s sensitive skin and may break down the fibres of delicate fabrics over time. Look for products that are hypoallergenic and designed for sensitive skin to keep your baby's clothes soft and safe.

Our recommendation: Persil non-bio

Wash Inside Out to Protect Details

Handmade baby clothes often come with special details like prints, appliques, or hand-stitched accents. To help protect these details from wear and tear, turn the clothes inside out before washing. This simple step helps prevent direct friction against the fabric and minimises the risk of fading, pilling, or snagging in the wash.

Use Cold or Warm Water, Avoid Hot Water

Washing baby clothes in cold or lukewarm water is always recommended, as it prevents shrinking and preserves the natural fibres and dyes used in handmade garments. Hot water can cause fabrics to wear out faster, lose their shape, and fade in colour, especially when dealing with delicate materials like cotton or bamboo.

Avoid the Tumble Dryer Where Possible

Tumble drying, though convenient, can be rough on handmade baby clothes, causing them to shrink or lose their softness. Whenever possible, it’s best to air-dry these garments. Lay them flat on a clean towel or hang them up, ensuring they’re not exposed to direct sunlight, which can cause fading. If you must use a dryer, choose a low-heat or delicate setting to minimise damage.

Hand Washing for Extra Care

For especially delicate pieces or garments with intricate detailing, hand washing is the safest option. Simply fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water, add a small amount of gentle detergent, and gently swish the garment around. Avoid wringing or scrubbing, as this can stretch or distort the fabric. After rinsing, press out excess water by gently squeezing or rolling the garment in a clean towel before laying it flat to dry.

Ironing with Caution

Some baby clothes may require ironing to smooth out wrinkles, especially after air drying. Always check the label before ironing and use the lowest heat setting possible. If your garment has prints or delicate embellishments, it’s best to iron the fabric inside out or place a clean cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid direct heat contact. This helps prevent any damage to the surface of the clothing.

Our Recommendation: Russell Hobs Pearl Rose Iron

Store Handmade Clothes Properly

Proper storage is just as important as the washing process when it comes to maintaining handmade baby clothes. Store garments in a cool, dry place, and avoid hanging heavy pieces for long periods, as this can cause stretching. Fold them neatly and avoid plastic storage bags, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew or fabric damage. Instead, opt for breathable cotton storage bags or lined drawers.

Spot Cleaning for Stains

Let’s face it – baby clothes are bound to get messy! To deal with stains on handmade clothes, try spot cleaning as soon as possible. Dab a little mild detergent or a baby-safe stain remover directly onto the stain and gently blot with a clean cloth. Avoid scrubbing, as this can damage the fibres. Rinse with cool water, then launder as usual. For tougher stains, soaking the garment in cool water with a small amount of detergent before washing can help lift the stain without damaging the fabric.

Keep Your Baby's Skin in Mind

Beyond keeping your baby’s clothes looking their best, the care you take in washing and storing them also impacts your little one’s comfort. By choosing gentle detergents and avoiding harsh washing techniques, you’re helping to ensure that your baby’s sensitive skin is safe from irritation. The softness and quality of handmade baby clothes are part of what makes them so special – and a little extra care goes a long way in preserving both the fabric and your baby’s well-being.

Final Thoughts on Caring for Handmade Baby Clothes

Handmade baby clothes are an investment in both style and comfort, often crafted with love and attention to detail. By following these care tips, you can keep your baby’s handmade garments looking as beautiful and vibrant as the day they arrived, ensuring they last through every milestone. Whether you’re saving these outfits as keepsakes, passing them down to younger siblings or selling them on in the Lottie & Lysh Facebook Members Group, taking proper care of your little one's wardrobe ensures that these cherished pieces stay in top condition for years to come.

Do you have any care tips or experiences to share with handmade baby clothes? We’d love to hear them! Leave a comment below, or check out our Boutique Baby Clothes collection for more beautiful, ethically made designs for your little one.