How to Care for Cotton Baby Clothes

(and Make Them Last Longer)

When it comes to baby clothes care, gentleness matters. Babies have delicate, sensitive skin that reacts easily to harsh detergents, synthetic fragrances, and chemical residues. That’s why caring properly for 100% cotton baby clothes isn’t just about keeping them clean: it’s about protecting your child’s comfort and health.

At Kokroma, we believe beautiful clothing should last. We believe in reducing the burden of surplus clothing generated by the Fast Fashion industry. With the right cotton care tips, your baby’s garments can stay soft, strong, and wearable for years even for younger siblings.

Why Cotton Is Best for Baby Clothes

Natural cotton is breathable, soft, and kind to sensitive skin. Unlike synthetic fabrics, cotton allows airflow and absorbs moisture, helping regulate a baby’s body temperature.

But not all cotton clothing is treated the same. Our fabrics are carefully washed by hand in Kathmandu using natural organic Nepali soap nut which is a traditional, plant-based cleanser that is naturally hypoallergenic. This gentle preparation process leaves the fabric incredibly soft even before we begin cutting and sewing. We also dry our textiles in Kathmandu’s natural sunlight rather than using industrial dryers, helping preserve the strength of the fibers.

Because our textiles are azo-free, the dyes used are safe and do not present harmful risks for young children.

How to Wash Baby Clothes Properly

Frequent washing is part of life with babies. Spills, milk, food, and play mean laundry happens often. Here’s some useful tips to wash cotton baby clothes without damaging them:

1. Use Gentle, Fragrance-Free Detergent

Choose mild, baby-safe detergents. Avoid heavy perfumes or scented soaps, bleach, or fabric softeners, which can irritate sensitive skin.

2. Wash in Cool or Warm Water

One of the most common questions about cotton care is temperature.

• 30°C (86°F) – Ideal for everyday washing
• 40°C (104°F) – Suitable for heavier soiling
• Avoid consistently high temperatures (60°C+) unless medically necessary, as this can cause shrinkage and weaken fibers over time.

Hot water can shrink 100% cotton, especially in the first few washes. Washing at moderate temperatures helps preserve size and shape.

3. Turn Garments Inside Out

This protects color and reduces friction during washing.

4. Wash Similar Fabrics Together

Avoid mixing heavy items like jeans or towels with delicate baby clothes. This reduces wear and pilling.

Should You Machine Dry Cotton Baby Clothes?

While tumble dryers are convenient, high heat is one of the main causes of shrinkage and fiber damage.

If you use a dryer:

• Choose low heat or delicate settings
• Remove garments while slightly damp
• Avoid over-drying

Whenever possible, air drying is best. That's what we do here in Kathmandu. Natural drying helps cotton fibers relax and maintain softness. At Kokroma, we rely on Kathmandu’s warm days and sunshine to dry our textiles: a slower, more sustainable method that protects fabric integrity and reduces reliance on electricity.

Cotton Gets Softer With Every Wash

One of the beautiful characteristics of well-made cotton clothing is that it softens naturally over time. Many Kokroma customers tell us their garments feel even better after months of use.

When cared for properly, cotton doesn’t wear out quickly — it becomes more comfortable.

How to Make Baby Clothes Last Longer

If you want your cotton baby clothes to last for a second or even third child, follow these simple longevity tips:

• Wash gently and avoid harsh chemicals
• Skip fabric softeners (they coat fibers and reduce breathability)
• Avoid high heat drying
• Store clean garments in a cool, dry place
• Repair small tears early

We’ve been delighted to hear from families who have passed Kokroma garments from one child to the next. That’s the heart of slow fashion > designing clothing strong enough to reduce waste and thoughtful enough to be worn again.

Caring for Baby Clothes Is Caring for the Future

Choosing quality cotton clothing and caring for it properly reduces textile waste and protects your child’s skin at the same time.

Baby clothes don’t need to be disposable. With the right baby clothes care routine and mindful cotton care tips, your garments can last beautifully for years.

At Kokroma, we are proud to create thoughtfully made, azo-free, 100% cotton children’s clothing — prepared with natural soap nut, dried in sunshine, and crafted to endure.

Because when clothing lasts longer, it’s better for your baby and of course it's better for the planet.