Are Cotton Clothes Good for Summer? A Complete Guide to Kids’ Summer Fashion
Summer is here! So you know what this means, don’t you? It means new clothes for your little ones. With each new year and season, there are new fashion styles and trendy clothes to look at. This can be hard for parents because there are so many choices. A common query from parents is whether cotton clothes are good for summer, and it’s good.
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We will be looking at it from all angles to answer this query completely. From why it’s a good material, all the trendy options available, the advantages of cotton for outdoor clothes, and so much more. By the end, you will have a definite answer as to whether or not cotton clothes are good for summer.
Why Cotton is the Best Fabric for Kids in Summer
The first step to figuring out whether cotton clothes are good for summer is to learn why they are such a good material for kids’ clothing. During the summer, kids need comfortable, breathable, and durable clothes. And cotton clothes check all these boxes and more.
1. Breathability and Comfort
There is no other natural material that’s as breathable as cotton. It’s the best clothing material out there that allows for so much free air circulation. This feature makes it a great choice for summer clothes for kids because it keeps them cool and comfortable even under a scorching sun. This isn’t just true for cotton clothes for kids though adults can also enjoy this joy.
Other materials like synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon and cotton clothes don’t keep the heat in; instead, they air the heat out. Allowing your kid to wear a cotton t-shirt in the playground, your kid can run, jump, and play without feeling restricted or uncomfortable.
2. Soft and Gentle on the Skin
The skin of kids is much more sensitive compared to their parents. As such, they are known to get irritated more easily while wearing rougher or synthetic clothing. That’s why cotton is a better choice for summer clothing. Cotton is quite naturally a soft and hypoallergenic material; thus, cotton clothes are guaranteed to reduce the risk of rashes, itchiness, and allergies. Parents are encouraged to get cotton clothing for their kids if they are known to break out of rashes, itchiness, and allergies more often.
As a pure natural material, cotton is also free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. As such, parents of toddlers and babies can feel more at ease with clothing their kids with cotton clothes.
3. Moisture-Wicking Properties
Summer heat guarantees that everyone will be sweating more often and a higher amount. Sweating so much is a major health issue, especially for kids. But that won’t be as big of a problem with cotton clothes. Cotton has natural moisture-wicking properties, which means cotton clothes are good for summer.
Cotton clothes can absorb a large quantity of sweat, thus ensuring your kid’s skin will stay dry and they will be comfortable. This feature of cotton clothes will also reduce the buildup of odor-causing bacteria. These bacteria are known for wearing out fresh clothes more quickly.
Parents are encouraged to buy their kids cotton clothes for their birthday since they keep them cool and dry. Because who doesn’t love to stay dry under the summer sun in a humid environment.
4. Durability and Easy Maintenance
It might not seem like it, but cotton clothes are durable and easy to clean. Kids are known for destroying clothes with roughhousing, but that won’t be as big of an issue when they wear cotton clothes. Cotton clothes can take quite a bit of beating and frequent washing.
On the topic of washing your kid’s cotton clothes, parents can rest easy. Why? Because cotton clothes are generally machine-washing compatible. So busy parents can just chuck them into the washing machine, and that’s it.
Thanks to durable and easy-to-clean cotton clothes, they are an excellent choice for summer.
Top Cotton Clothing Options for Kids in Summer
Now that you know why cotton clothes are good for summer, it’s time to figure out what options are available for your kids. There are many choices for cotton clothes for kids this summer season. Here are some of them:
1. Cotton T-Shirts and Tops
The most common choice for your boys and girls is the ever-popular cotton t-shirt or tops. There is a reason why its so darn popular on kids during the summer. They are a staple during the summer because they are lightweight, comfortable, and come in various fun colors and patterns. All of which makes them quite popular with the kids in t, urn makes the parents want to buy them more often.
For example, a graphic cotton T-shirt paired with denim shorts is a classic summer look that’s both stylish and practical.
2. Cotton Shorts and Skirts
If you are going to buy a cotton shirt or top, it makes sense to pair them with a cotton short or skirt. That’s the kind of thinking that makes cotton shorts or skirts common and practical in the summer. Kids are prone to running, jumping, and playing in the summer. And wearing these cotton shorts or skirts allows them to do just that with maximum comfort and ease.
A cotton skirt with a matching top is a great option for a summer picnic or family outing. It’s comfortable, breathable, and effortlessly chic.
3. Cotton Dresses and Rompers
Aside from the shirts and shorts, the cotton dresses and rompers are some of the more popular choices available in the summer. These dresses and rompers ensure your kids look their cutest while still being practical. Generally, they come in such styles that ensure they are easy to pull on and off. They are also known to look very flowy which does have a purpose. It allows the kids to feel cool and comfortable under the bright sun.
For example, a floral cotton dress is ideal for a summer wedding or a day at the beach. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and photo-ready.
4. Cotton Pajamas and Nightwear
Cotton clothes aren’t just for those outdoor events. Your kids would also love to wear them indoors since they are so comfortable and cool. Cotton pajamas and nightwear are ideal during the summer because they ensure your kids have the most comfortable night of sleep. Go for the short-sleeved sets or lightweight nightgowns for summer.
A set of cotton pajamas with a fun print, like stars or animals, can make bedtime something your child looks forward to.
With our suggestions, you can fill your kid’s wardrobes with cotton clothes that are good for the summer.
Related: How to Choose Christmas Pajamas for Kids? Easy & Smart Guide
Benefits of Cotton Clothes for Outdoor Activities
There are many reasons why cotton clothes are good for summer outdoor activities. Here are just a few that are sure to convince you to buy them for your kids:
1. Sun Protection
The obvious benefit of having your kids wear cotton clothes for summer is that it will provide amazing sun protection. It’s true that no clothing will provide your kids with complete sun protection, but cotton clothes with their natural properties do protect your kids more from harmful UV rays. However, you must ensure you pick cotton clothes with high UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) if you want higher protection.
Match those clothes with hats and sunglasses for complete sun safety. For example, a long-sleeved cotton shirt with UPF protection is ideal for a day at the beach or a hike in the mountains.
2. Perfect for Playtime
As we mentioned previously kids are bound to rough play during the summer. As such, you need more durable clothes. Most parents will think about synthetic clothes when they hear they need durable clothing. However, these materials are known to be mixed with harmful chemicals that kids might be allergic to.
As such, cotton clothes, with their natural durability, are the better choice. In addition, these clothes are also easy to clean so your kids dirtying them up after playing isn’t that major of an issue.
A pair of cotton overalls is a great option for a day of gardening or crafting. They’re durable, comfortable, and easy to clean.
3. Eco-Friendly Option
Being environmental consciousness isn’t an issue only for brands and major companies but for everyone. More and more parents are becoming aware of the benefits of eco-friendly clothing for themselves and their kids.
One of the most eco-friendly clothing materials out there is cotton. It’s a natural, biodegradable fabric with a lower environmental impact than synthetic materials. Organic cotton, in particular, is grown without harmful pesticides, making it even better for the planet. From an environmental perspective, it should make sense why cotton clothes are good for summer.
Choosing organic cotton clothes for your child is a small but meaningful way to reduce your family’s carbon footprint.
How to Style Cotton Clothes for Kids in Summer
You are convinced cotton clothes are good for summer, but now you are wondering how to style them for your kids. No worries! We are here to help you with that too. Here are some easy-to-follow suggestions:
1. Mix and Match Outfits
The most common suggestion with a lot of flexibility would be to mix and match your cotton clothes with other items. Cotton clothes are very versatile; therefore, you can easily match them with other items. Cotton clothes come in many colors and patterns; thus, you won’t have any problem finding a style that will work wonders for your kids.
Pair a colorful cotton T-shirt with neutral shorts, or layer a cotton dress with a lightweight cardigan for cooler evenings. For example, a striped cotton T-shirt can be paired with solid-colored shorts for a classic summer look. As you can see, the options are quite limitless.
2. Accessorizing Cotton Outfits
Who said that you can only style cotton clothes with other clothing items? No one! Why? Because accessories exist!
You can easily match your kid’s cotton clothes with various accessories to give your lovelies a fresh and unique look. Anything from a simple sun hat to wacky sunglasses on your kids will look simply fabulous under the summer sunshine. That’s why experiment to your heart’s content and see which accessories work best with your kid’s cotton clothes collection. Remember to have fun but still have a balance for a great summer look on your children.
Add a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, slip-on sandals for easy wear, and a cute backpack for carrying essentials. A sunhat with a fun print can add a playful touch to a simple cotton dress.
3. Layering with Cotton
Layering clothes might not seem like the best idea during the summer days, but they can be necessary for your kids during the evenings or nights; after harsh sunlight during the day, summer evenings are typically cooler. This might not affect adults as it does for kids. Parents might want to figure out how they can layer cotton clothes on their kids to protect them from the cooler nights.
Lightweight cotton cardigans or jackets are perfect for layering. A denim jacket over a cotton romper is a stylish and practical choice for a summer evening outing.
Caring for Cotton Clothes: Tips for Parents
Cotton clothes are very well regarded because they are easy to clean. Since most cotton clothes are machine washable, parents will love them. Yet, we recommend you follow our suggestions while cleaning and caring for cotton clothes to ensure they last for a long time.
1. Washing and Drying
While washing your cotton clothes in the machine, you must ensure the machine uses only cold water. This ensures the clothes don’t shrink, which they are known to do when washed with warm water.
To protect the cotton clothes and to ensure it keeps its natural look and feel don’t use any harsh or too strong detergents. Above all else don’t keep your washing machine too much when washing cotton clothes. This is because overloading the machine leads to ineffective cleaning.
When you are drying cotton clothes, go with tumble drying on low heat or air-drying to maintain the fabric’s integrity.
2. Storing Cotton Clothes
Once the cotton clothes are done washing and drying, it’s time to store them either short or long-term. Since cotton clothes are better for summer than winter, they need to be properly stored during the colder seasons to last longer.
For both long- and short-term storing, cotton clothes need someplace cool and dry so that mildew is prevented. Additionally, cotton clothes must be stored in breathable storage bags or boxes to keep them fresh even after long-term storage.
3. Repairing and Upcycling
As much as we say cotton clothes are durable, they aren’t indestructible. So, with enough rough play, these clothes will have small tears. Instead of throwing them out, parents should either make DIY repairs or have someone do it professionally. This will ensure your kids can wear these cotton clothes for a long time and be eco-friendly simultaneously.
Once your kids outgrow the cotton clothes or tear them up badly, you can still get some use out of them. Instead of chucking them in the garbage bag, DIY them into rags, quilts, or something else.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Question: Is 100% cotton better than cotton blends for summer?
Answer: 100% cotton is highly breathable and ideal for hot weather. However, cotton blends (like cotton polyester) can offer added durability and wrinkle resistance. Pure cotton clothes are good for summer due to their superior breathability.
2. Question: Can cotton clothes cause overheating in extreme heat?
Answer: Cotton is one of the best fabrics for hot weather since it allows air to circulate and absorbs sweat. However, cotton can retain moisture in highly humid conditions, making it feel heavier. In such cases, lightweight cotton fabrics like jersey or muslin are better options.
3. Question: Are organic cotton clothes worth it for kids?
Answer: Organic cotton is free from most harmful pesticides and chemicals, making it safer for kids and the environment. While it may be more expensive, many parents find the benefits worth the investment, especially for children with sensitive skin.
4. Question: How can I remove tough stains from cotton clothes?
Answer: Pre-treat the area with a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water for tough stains. Wash the cotton clothes under cold water to prevent the stain from setting. Don’t use bleach, as it can weaken the fabric over time.
Conclusion
So what have you decided? Are cotton clothes good for summer or not? According to our research, cotton clothes are indeed good for summer. These clothes are essential for kids due to how much comfort, durability, and style they provide.
From playful T-shirts to cozy pajamas, cotton clothes are the best choice to ensure your kids keep cool under the sun and still have fun. By picking cotton clothes, you aren’t just looking out for your kids but also playing a part in protecting the Earth.
Therefore, parents should fill their kid’s wardrobe with cotton shirts, shorts, dresses, and rompers this summer. Stay happy, healthy, and stylish all summer long!
