The 5 things we check before buying clothes for our children.
Most of us read food labels. We check ingredients in shampoo, sunscreen and toothpaste. But how many of us ever turn over a clothing label.
We didn't either.
Until we started researching what children's activewear is actually made from. What we discovered completely changed the way we shop for our own family.
The good news? You don't need to become a textile expert. You just need to know what to look for.
Words like...
...can sound reassuring. Often, they don't mean much and they don't tell us what the garment is actually made from.
Always check the fibre composition first.
Ignore the front of the label for a moment. Instead, turn the garment over and look for the fibre composition.
That's where you'll find what the clothing is actually made from. It's often the most honest part of the label.
Most fibres fall into one of two groups.
"Bamboo" on its own doesn't tell you much. Most bamboo fabric is heavily chemically processed into a fibre called Viscose or Rayon. Genuine, mechanically processed bamboo is rare and has to be labelled "bamboo linen."
So don't stop at the word bamboo. Check the fibre composition line itself. If it says Viscose or Rayon, that's your answer.
The more labels you read, the easier it becomes.
If clothing is described as wrinkle free, easy care, stain resistant, or things like water repellant, this usually means the garment is coated with chemicals, often PFAS forever chemicals.
Many garments receive additional treatments or finishes during manufacturing. If we are aware of this, as parents, we can decide if we want these chemicals pressed against our children's developing skin all day.
You don't have to replace your child's entire wardrobe overnight. Start with the clothes they spend the most time in and the ones worn closest to their skin.
Small changes really can add up. Every informed choice is a positive step towards a wardrobe that gives you more peace of mind about your children's health and the clothes pressed against their body all day.
One final thought...
Four years ago, we knew nothing about clothing labels. Today, we read them without thinking, we look into the companies making these clothes, just as naturally as we read food labels and care where our food comes from.
Our hope is that after reading this guide, you'll feel a bit more confident doing the same. Once you know what you're looking for, buying clothes for your children becomes simpler and healthier.
Thank you for reading.
Svante's sets are made the way this guide describes: plant-based fibres, zero polyester, OEKO-TEX and GOTS certified.
See The Summer CollectionThe information on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. References to research and chemical properties are provided for educational context. No claims are made that Svante products diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition.
