Photo: Speesees
Soft, breathable cotton is always kindest to a newborn’s skin. But before you reach for the latest onesie on sale, you might want to think twice. The facts about cottonare staggering, especially the use of pesticides (the majority used already are recognized by the EPA as known carcinogens) and the runoff effects. The good news? Organic and fair trade clothing brands are more accessible now than ever before, and even big box stores are seeing the light.
For tiny clothes that make a big difference, look to these popular, and affordable, organic brands.
Under the Nile
An old standby for many eco-conscious parents, Under the Nile features 100% organic Egyptian cotton free of pesticides and chemicals. A standard footie is $26, but you’ll find deals under the “Outlet” section of the website; a pack of 4 onesies, for example, for $17 is a steal. You’ll also find big kid-sized clothes up to 6Y, like soft rib knit long johns for $32.
Kate Quinn
As adorable as it is sensible, Kate Quinn clothing is 100% certified organic and fair trade certified. Bright colors and modern prints set this line apart from other clothes, organic or not (think elephants, zinnias, or mod squares). You’ll find standard layette pieces and basic separates for babies, as well as jumpers and dresses, shorts, and tees, and outerwear for older kids. A standard footie is priced around $38.
Speesees
Speesees is 100% skal-certified organic, reated with low-impact and herbal dyes, and fair trade certified. Styles are colorful and graphic with an urban vibe. Tops and bottoms cost between $12-$24 and one pieces average about $28; all-important booties for tiny toes cost about $10.
Hanna Andersson
“Hanna” has a cult following among parents for its durable, quality clothing; 100% organic cotton and European Oeko-Tex certified products mean shopping with a clear conscience. The organic cotton zippers are most popular and retail for $26, but can be found for nearly half the price at outlet stores and at Costco.
Tip: All the brands mentioned above are sold through retailers that regularly offer coupons and sales (just do a quick google search), so rarely will you ever need to pay full price.
About Selena Kohng
I'm a freelance writer and editor for parenting websites, home and garden websites, and my six-year-old's homework (editor, not writer, that is). I've got two misters and a little miss on the way. You can find me writing about my parenting adventures at howaboutcookie.wordpress.com.
Web | Twitter | More Posts (6)