10 clothing tips to help hypersensitive children
Tactile hypersensitivity to textiles and clothing is a very common reality for many babies and children (and for parents). I know what I'm talking about since my big Leo (and I) are two people with discomfort when it comes to touch, in particular.
This is what prompted me to prepare an article for this purpose.
Textures, fabrics, seams or even the label of a garment can cause real discomfort. For parents, this can become a daily challenge. Fortunately, there are practical solutions to help children feel comfortable.
Here are 10 tips to help you better manage this situation.
1. Choose clothes made from textiles from natural materials
Fabrics from natural materials such as cotton, bamboo and lyocell are often softer and less irritating to children's sensitive skin. Cotton is breathable and soft, while bamboo is hypoallergenic and antibacterial, ideal for minimizing irritation. Lyocell, also known as Tencel, is a fiber made from wood pulp. It is soft, durable and absorbs moisture, making it perfect for hypersensitive children.
We avoid textiles made from predominantly artificial materials such as polyester, nylon and synthetic wool. It doesn't breathe and it stings.
2. Opt for progressive clothing
In addition to having a sustainable vocation, progressive clothing, like evolving pants and Onesie Sweaters, grows with your child. They are designed with stretchy and soft materials, reducing uncomfortable pressure and friction.
As for progressive pants, the waist and calf bands are foldable, removing the “too tight elastic” factor which can create discomfort during the day.
I already saw my boy constantly pulling on his sweater sleeve because it was too short, it bothered him. It is better to choose a garment that is a little larger than too tight.
3. Ode to loose clothing
Loose clothing allows your child to move freely without feeling pressure on the skin and restricting movement. They are especially beneficial for hypersensitive children who may feel suffocated by clothing that is too tight.
The Loose T-Shirt is really great for this! It is loose (its name says so). Its widened sleeves provide maximum comfort for children to play outside and climb into the play modules.
4. We avoid thick seams
Thick, rough seams can be a significant source of discomfort. The magic of topstitching allows you to flatten the seams of clothing and make them more pleasant to wear.
5. The famous labels
Tags can cause itching and irritation. For clothing designers, labels make it possible to identify important information about a garment such as its composition, but also its maintenance. However, a hypersensitive child will want to have labels cut (and even unstitched!) to enjoy their comfort.
Know that I am doing research to offer clothing with as few labels as possible, I try to offer clothing with small labels, camouflaged in the clothing or even with stamps.
6. Do fabric tests
There's nothing better than testing! Before buying a new wardrobe, have your child try on different types of fabrics. Observe their reactions and note the materials they find most comfortable.
7. We wash clothes before use
Be sure to always wash new clothes before wearing them. Not only does this help soften the fabrics, but washing helps remove dirt and chemicals used in processing the fabric.
Please note that I do a first wash of all fabrics in store. This allows me to fix the colors, but also to ensure that the garment will not shrink after manufacturing. I would have gone out of my way to help you!
8. Use hypoallergenic detergents
We choose gentle and hypoallergenic detergents to wash children's clothes, and even ideally without perfume. Standard detergents can leave irritating residue on fabrics.
9. Establish a routine
A well-established routine can help reduce anxiety around wearing clothes. Try to make dressing time pleasant and predictable for your child, by choosing quiet times and giving them a choice of clothes. Avoid any stimulation, such as pausing the television, to allow your child to concentrate on their task.
Try to make it fun by creating a game through it all, it will be much more enjoyable for him.
10. Encourages autonomy
Allow your child to choose and try on their own clothes. This can help him feel more in control and identify what is comfortable for him. Offering options like flexible or loose-fitting clothing can give them more flexibility in their choices.
The tips are there and it's possible to see clearly through it all. This is not a behavioral problem or a whim, but a real feeling for the child. The important thing is to prioritize comfort above all else and to respect your child's choices.
