Sensory Sensitivities to Textiles and Clothing: 10 Tips to Make Daily Life Easier
Sensory hypersensitivity to textiles and clothing is a very common reality for many babies and children (and for parents too). I know this from experience—my eldest, Léo, and I both deal with discomfort related to clothing textures.
The texture, fabric, seams, or tags on a piece of clothing can cause real distress. For parents, it can become a daily challenge. Thankfully, there are practical solutions to help kids feel more comfortable.
Here are 10 tips to help you manage this situation more easily:
1. Choose clothing made from natural fibers
Fabrics made from natural materials like cotton, bamboo, and lyocell are often softer and less irritating for children’s sensitive skin. Cotton is breathable, bamboo is hypoallergenic and antibacterial—ideal for minimizing irritation. Lyocell, also known as Tencel, is a fiber made from wood pulp. It’s soft, durable, and moisture-wicking, making it perfect for sensory-sensitive kids.
Avoid synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and synthetic wool. These fabrics don’t breathe and often cause itching. Learn more about the types of fibers used in clothing.
2. Opt for grow-with-me clothing
In addition to being eco-friendly, grow-with-me clothing—like adjustable pants and convertible rompers—grows with your child. They’re designed with soft, stretchy fabrics that reduce pressure and uncomfortable friction.
For example, grow-with-me pants have fold-over waist and ankle bands that eliminate the “too-tight elastic” factor, which can cause discomfort throughout the day.
I’ve seen my son constantly tug at his sleeves because they were too short—it really bothered him. It’s better to go slightly bigger than too snug.
3. Long live loose-fitting clothing
Loose clothing lets your child move freely without feeling pressure on the skin or restricted movement. This is especially helpful for sensory-sensitive children who may feel overwhelmed by tight garments.
The Oversized Tee and Short-Sleeved Romper are perfect options—they're roomy and allow air to circulate. Their wide sleeves offer maximum comfort for active outdoor play and climbing.
4. Avoid thick seams
Thick or rough seams can be a major source of discomfort. Flatlock or topstitched seams help keep the fabric flat and more comfortable against the skin.
5. Those pesky tags
Tags can cause itching and irritation. For clothing makers, tags carry important info like fabric content and care instructions. But for a sensory-sensitive child, tags often need to be cut out—or even unstitched—for them to feel truly comfortable.
Ticoti Baby clothing often comes with fewer tags, especially around the neck, which is a very sensitive area. When tags are necessary, they should be as discreet and non-invasive as possible.
6. Try fabric testing
Nothing beats trying it out! Before committing to a new wardrobe, let your child try different fabric types. Observe their reactions and take note of which materials feel most comfortable to them.
7. Wash clothes before wearing
Always wash new clothes before your child wears them. Washing softens the fabric and removes dirt or chemicals used during manufacturing.
Note: All fabrics used in our boutique go through an initial wash. This helps set the colors and ensures that the garment won’t shrink after production. A little behind-the-scenes detail, just for you!
8. Use hypoallergenic detergent
Choose gentle, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergents when washing your child’s clothes. Standard detergents can leave irritating residues on fabrics.
9. Establish a routine
A well-established routine can help reduce anxiety around getting dressed. Try to make getting dressed a calm, predictable moment—choose quiet times and let your child pick out their clothes. Avoid distractions like TV so they can focus on the task.
Turn it into a game or a fun activity—it’ll make it more enjoyable for everyone.
10. Encourage independence
Let your child choose and try on their own clothes. It helps them feel more in control and allows them to identify what feels right. Offering choices like loose or adjustable clothes gives them flexibility.
And let’s be real—if they want the Bluey or Spiderman shirt, let them wear it. That’s okay.
These tips can really help bring clarity and calm to what can otherwise feel overwhelming. Remember, this is not a behavioral issue or about being picky—it’s a real, physical experience for the child. The key is to prioritize comfort and respect your child’s preferences.
If you want to learn more about sensory hypersensitivity, Naître et Grandir is a fantastic resource to help you better understand and adapt to your child’s needs.
