When shopping for your child’s clothing, style, comfort, and price often top the list of priorities. But one of the most important—and often overlooked—factors is safety. The clothes your child wears can pose risks if they’re not carefully selected, especially for infants and toddlers who explore the world through movement and curiosity.
This guide outlines essential clothing safety tips that every parent should know, from newborns to school-aged children.
1. Avoid Drawstrings and Loose Cords
Drawstrings at the neck, waist, or hems can be dangerous. They may get caught on playground equipment, bus doors, furniture, or cribs, leading to choking, strangulation, or tripping.
Safety Tips:
- Avoid clothing with drawstrings around the neck or hood.
- If a garment has drawstrings at the waist, make sure they are short (under 3 inches) and securely sewn in.
- Opt for elastic waistbands instead of adjustable cords.
Regulatory Note: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has recalled many garments due to hazardous drawstrings.
2. Choose Flame-Resistant Sleepwear
Children’s pajamas are regulated by safety standards to reduce fire-related injuries. Fabrics must be either flame-resistant or snug-fitting to prevent ignition.
Guidelines for Sleepwear:
- For kids over 9 months, look for “flame-resistant” labels on pajamas, nightgowns, and robes.
- If the garment is snug-fitting, it may not be treated with flame retardants but should still meet safety guidelines.
- Avoid loose-fitting sleepwear that’s not labeled flame-resistant.
Note: Organic cotton pajamas are often snug-fitting by design and safe if used as directed.
3. Be Cautious With Small Embellishments
Decorative elements like buttons, sequins, beads, rhinestones, or snaps may look cute but can pose choking hazards if they come loose.
What to Watch For:
- Ensure decorations are firmly sewn or heat-sealed.
- Check regularly for loose or dangling parts, especially after washing.
- Avoid clothing with detachable pieces or poorly secured adornments for children under 3.
4. Choose Proper Fit Over Growing Room for Infants
While it’s common to size up to extend wear time, oversized clothing can be hazardous, especially for babies and early walkers.
Dangers of Oversized Clothes:
- Extra fabric can cover the face, posing a suffocation risk.
- Loose sleeves and pant legs can cause tripping or tangling.
- Ill-fitting onesies may shift and expose babies to temperature fluctuations.
Instead, aim for well-fitted, soft, and stretchy fabrics that allow easy movement without excess material.
5. Inspect for Rough Seams, Tags, or Fasteners
Irritating seams, tags, or rough fasteners can cause skin irritation or pressure sores, especially for babies with sensitive skin or children with sensory sensitivities.
Best Practices:
- Choose clothing with flat seams and tagless designs.
- Check the inside of garments for rough zippers or fasteners.
- For babies, avoid clothing with zippers near the chin or face unless protected with fabric flaps.
6. Mind the Materials: Choose Breathable, Non-Toxic Fabrics
Children’s skin is more sensitive and absorbent than adults’, making them more susceptible to reactions from chemical-laden fabrics.
Safer Fabric Options:
- 100% cotton, organic cotton, or bamboo are breathable and hypoallergenic.
- Avoid synthetic fabrics (like polyester or nylon) for hot weather, as they may trap heat and sweat.
- Wash all new clothes before use to remove manufacturing chemicals or dyes.
Look for OEKO-TEX® or GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification for safer fabrics.
7. Prioritize Mobility and Functionality
Clothes should not restrict movement or create hazards during daily activities.
Features to Look For:
- Stretchy cuffs and necklines that allow free movement.
- Breakaway or quick-release fasteners on accessories like bibs or hats.
- Avoid clothing that’s too tight, which can cut off circulation or cause discomfort.
If your child is potty training, consider elastic waist pants instead of buttons or overalls to encourage independence and prevent accidents.
8. Be Aware of Costume and Dress-Up Clothing Hazards
Costumes and dress-up clothes can pose risks if not made to the same standards as regular garments.
Watch Out For:
- Long trailing fabrics (tripping hazard)
- Flammable materials (especially if near open flames like candles)
- Masks that restrict vision or breathing
- Ties or straps that can wrap around the neck
Always supervise young children in costumes, and use them only during safe, monitored play.
9. Monitor Footwear Safety
Shoes, sandals, and slippers should be the right size and designed for activity.
Key Footwear Safety Tips:
- Avoid flip-flops for toddlers—they lack support and cause frequent tripping.
- Look for rubber soles with traction to prevent slipping.
- Shoes should be snug but not tight, with a little room at the toe for growth.
For babies learning to walk, barefoot or flexible soft-soled shoes are best indoors.
10. Check for Recalls and Safety Alerts
Before purchasing new or secondhand clothing, check for product recalls related to:
- Drawstrings
- Flammability
- Choking hazards
- Toxic materials or lead in embellishments
Where to Check:
- CPSC.gov/Recalls
- Brand websites or store recall pages
- Email alerts from parenting or safety organizations
Conclusion
Clothing safety isn’t just about avoiding scratches or minor irritations—it’s about protecting your child from serious hazards that can arise from poor design, faulty materials, or improper fit. By staying informed and choosing clothing with care, you’re taking an important step in safeguarding your child’s well-being, whether they’re crawling at home or climbing at the playground.