Expert Tips: Choosing Clothes for Kids with Allergies

Meet Our Expert: Understanding Fabric and Children's Skin

For this guide, we consulted leading dermatology research and recommendations from paediatric skin specialists across India. According to Dr. Kiran Godse, Consultant Dermatologist at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, and Associate Professor at Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College with 39 years of experience, "Children with eczema and chronic skin allergies benefit significantly from wearing natural, chemical-free fabrics. Organic cotton that's free from pesticide residues and azo dyes is an excellent choice for managing sensitive skin conditions in the Indian climate."

According to a 2010 study published in Pediatric Dermatology by Stamatas et al., children's stratum corneum (the outermost skin layer) is approximately 30% thinner than adult skin, and the epidermis is 20% thinner. This means irritants from conventional fabrics penetrate children's skin more easily, making fabric choice critical for little ones with allergies.

From a Mother's Experience: When my daughter Zoey was just 18 months old, tiny red rashes started appearing in the warm folds of her body — her neck, behind her knees, inner elbows. I tried everything: the safest skincare, organic vegetables, trusted kidswear brands. Nothing helped. That's when I discovered the uncomfortable truth about chemical residues in conventional clothing. I checked every label in her wardrobe and was shocked — clothes that 'felt natural' were actually blends, and some had no fabric composition listed at all. That moment changed everything. At Mom & Zoey, we ensure every fabric is verified safe from seed to stitch, with GOTS certification and complete traceability — because I learned firsthand that what touches their skin truly matters.

— Aman, founder of Mom & Zoey and mother of one

Q&A: Your Fabric and Allergy Questions Answered

Question 1: Why does my child get rashes from certain clothes?

Clothing-related rashes typically stem from three sources: chemical residues, fabric irritation, or heat trapping. According to research from the Pesticide Action Network UK, conventional cotton farming uses 16% of the world's insecticides, and these chemicals can remain on fibres even after manufacturing and washing. Additionally, synthetic fabrics and chemically treated materials can trap heat, cause friction, and worsen conditions like eczema.

In India's humid climate, the wrong material can trap moisture and become a breeding ground for irritants. Fabrics marketed as "wrinkle-resistant" or "stain-resistant" often contain formaldehyde resins that can irritate sensitive skin. The solution? Choose GOTS-certified organic cotton that's processed without harmful chemicals.

For more on selecting safe fabrics, read our guide on why choosing the right fabric for your child matters.

Question 2: What is GOTS certification and why does it matter for allergies?

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for organic fibres. When you see GOTS certification, it guarantees the product contains a minimum of 95% certified organic fibres, is manufactured without toxic pesticides or synthetic fertilisers, uses no harmful dyes, bleaches, or finishes that can cause skin reactions, and follows strict environmental and social guidelines throughout production.

According to the National Eczema Association, children with eczema are especially vulnerable to fabrics that don't allow skin to breathe. GOTS-certified organic cotton addresses this by ensuring the fabric remains pure and free from residues that irritate delicate skin.

Unlike competitors such as H&M or generic "organic" claims, Mom & Zoey provides Transaction Certificates for complete traceability — documenting our fabric's journey from Maharashtra farms to your doorstep. We also maintain azo-free dye documentation, ensuring every colour is safe for sensitive skin.

Florence Lounge Set | Organic Cotton–Linen Co-ord

Soft, breathable 180 GSM organic cotton-linen set, GOTS-certified and gentle on sensitive skin.

₹3,799 – Shop Now

Question 3: What fabric specifications should I look for?

When shopping for allergy-friendly kids' clothes, understanding fabric science helps you make informed choices. GSM (grams per square metre) indicates fabric weight and breathability:

• 120-150 GSM: Lightweight, ideal for Indian summers — allows maximum airflow
• 150-180 GSM: Medium weight, perfect for year-round wear — Mom & Zoey's sweet spot
• 180-220 GSM: Slightly heavier, suitable for air-conditioned environments or mild winters

Mom & Zoey uses 180 GSM organic cotton and organic cotton-linen blends — the perfect balance of durability and breathability for Indian weather. Our fabrics undergo rigorous testing for harmful substances, with azo-free dye documentation available upon request.

Learn more about fabric blends in our cotton-linen blend guide for kids.

Question 4: Are there specific fabrics I should completely avoid?

Yes. For children with allergies or sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend avoiding:

• Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon — they trap heat and cause friction
• Wool (except fine merino) — may cause itching and irritation
• Chemically treated fabrics marketed as "wrinkle-free," "stain-resistant," or "easy-care"
• Conventional cotton grown with pesticides — may retain harmful residues
• Brightly dyed fabrics that may use azo dyes linked to skin reactions

According to Dr. Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist at Fortis S.L. Raheja Hospital Mumbai, "Parents should specifically look for certified organic fabrics, not just 'natural' claims. Certification ensures the fabric has been tested for harmful chemicals throughout the manufacturing process."

Cairo Blouse | Organic Cotton-Linen

Breathable 180 GSM organic cotton-linen blend with azo-free dyes, perfect for sensitive skin.

₹2,599 – Shop Now

Question 5: How do I know if a brand's "organic" claim is genuine?

Look beyond marketing claims. Genuine organic clothing will display GOTS or OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification logos. These certifications test that fabrics contain no harmful levels of over 100 substances known to cause irritation or health issues. Ask for Transaction Certificates that trace the fabric from farm to finished garment.

Many brands claim "organic" without documentation. At Mom & Zoey, we provide complete traceability with GOTS certification proof and azo-free dye documentation available upon request — something most competitors like H&M and FirstCry don't offer.

Question 6: How should I wash clothes for a child with allergies?

Proper laundering is crucial for maintaining fabric safety. Dermatologists recommend:

• Use mild, fragrance-free detergent without optical brighteners
• Avoid fabric softener sheets entirely — they leave chemical residue
• Run a double rinse cycle to remove all detergent residues
• Wash new clothes before first wear to remove any manufacturing residues
• Use lukewarm water — hot water can set in irritants

Residual chemicals from detergents can irritate sensitive skin and trigger eczema flare-ups. For seasonal care tips, our guide on how organic clothing prevents eczema and dryness offers practical advice.

Question 7: Is organic cotton worth the higher price for managing allergies?

Absolutely. Consider the true cost of conventional clothing: ongoing medical appointments for skin reactions, prescription creams and medications, discomfort and disrupted sleep for your child, and frequent replacement of clothes that cause reactions.

According to the National Eczema Association, eczema affects 10-20% of children worldwide, with many cases aggravated by fabric irritants. Organic cotton's durability means fewer replacements — the stronger fibres last longer even with active play. When you factor in reduced medical costs and longer garment life, GOTS-certified organic cotton often represents better value.

Mom & Zoey pieces are thoughtfully priced between ₹1,800-₹3,500, designed to last through active childhood while getting softer with every wash. For winter dressing, check our winter layering guide for organic fabrics.

The Riviera Rose Dress | Organic Cotton-Linen

Soft floral charm with elevated comfort, 180 GSM fabric perfect for children with sensitive skin.

₹2,599 – Shop Now

Comparing Fabrics: What Works for Allergic Skin

Expert-Approved Picks for Children with Allergies

Based on dermatological recommendations, here are clothing choices that combine allergy-friendly 180 GSM fabric with practical design for children ages 2-6:

Petra Shirt | Organic Cotton–Linen

Breathable organic cotton-linen blend with azo-free dyes, 180 GSM for year-round comfort.

₹2,599 – Shop Now

Each Mom & Zoey piece features GOTS-certified organic cotton or organic cotton-linen blends at 180 GSM, azo-free dyes documented for safety, breathable construction designed for Indian weather, and thoughtful design that minimises friction points.

Key Takeaways for Parents

• Prioritise certification: Look for GOTS or OEKO-TEX Standard 100 — not just "organic" claims
• Check fabric specifications: 180 GSM organic cotton or cotton-linen blends are ideal for Indian climate
• Avoid hidden chemicals: Steer clear of "wrinkle-free" or "stain-resistant" treatments
• Verify traceability: Ask for Transaction Certificates and azo-free dye documentation
• Wash wisely: Use fragrance-free detergent and double-rinse new clothes
• Consider climate: Breathable fabrics prevent heat-related irritation in Indian weather

Managing allergies through clothing choices isn't about finding one perfect solution — it's about consistently choosing fabrics that work with your child's skin rather than against it. For families navigating the challenges of sensitive skin, certified organic cotton offers peace of mind with every wear.