Toddler outfits: Durability and safety are major concerns

Toddlers who have just learned to walk have immense curiosity towards their surroundings. As such they often have a tendency to explore around the house whenever they are left alone. Their clothes should thus be protective enough to guard their soft skins from the common hazards they can come across, such as, rough hewn floors, hard mats (made of rubber, coarse-spun jute, etc.), and similar things. Also, the material of the clothing should be durable, to ensure longer shelf life. When choosing toddler wear, opt for fabrics that are thicker and more stretchable than infant outfits. Bi-layered cotton, heavy flannel, lycra and polyester are great materials for toddler clothes.

Bi-layered cotton and flannel are both excellent non-allergenic natural fibers. Thick flannel is particularly good, because it will let the skin breathe properly, soak up body moisture, and will protect it from injuries. Polyester and lycra are highly stretchable, and thus can withstand the punishment a toddler’s clothing will go through, when the little hero is out on his/her personal adventure. However, teach your child not to go near any source of fire when wearing lycra or polyester outfits, as none of these two fabrics have any sort of fire retardant quality. Another interesting option to try out is denim, but make sure it is not too rough-textured.

Always buy toddler outfits in fabrics that are easy to clean. Heavy cotton, or flannel are easily washable, but can get stained easily. Buy clothes made of these fabrics in dark colors, so that the stains do not show easily. Lycra and polyester are not so easy to clean and will often need professional cleaning services. But, the plus point is that these fabrics will not get stained easily, and even if they do, the stains can be removed simply by dry cleaning the clothes.

When purchasing toddler wear, make sure you get outfits that can be taken off easily. Shirts are better than t-shirts, and cardigans are preferred over sweaters that need to be pulled over the head. Make sure the clothes are not too loose-fitting, or with large hems. For girls, try to stay away from frilly skirts. Frilly clothes put your child at a greater risk of a fire hazard. Instead, choose well-fitting clothes. However, buy clothes that are longer than your child’s current size, so that he/she would be able to wear those for quite some time.

Toddlers are inquisitive and need adequate protection from clothing. Make sure their clothes are made of protective and comfortable fabrics. Make sure these are easy to clean as well, to ensure a longer shelf life.