Finding your baby covered in a rash can be a very scary experience for moms, especially when you’re new to parenting. The first time I dealt with it, we rushed off to the Pediatrician, fearing it was something terrible, as little one wailed uncontrollably.
Initially, I suspected diet or cosmetics, but the answer was much more surprising: contact dermatitis caused by the wrong fabric. According to the doctor, this is much more common than people think. Many babies—and toddlers, too—can be aggravated by rough and/or synthetic fabrics.
I never would’ve dreamed that a rash could be caused by using the wrong bedding! We were advised to use only 100% cotton from then on as prevention. Cotton fabric is the most popular choice for babies because it’s soft, highly absorbent, and extremely gentle.
While that situation was unpleasant, the solution was so simple. I started researching fabrics and fabric companies, to find the best options for our family. I wanted something that was durable, cute, and safe.
My fabric source for high quality, affordable material is Gehman’s Country Fabrics. They offer so many options that I love. For girls, Rose & Lavender Butterflies is beautiful and boys will enjoy the Toy print.
You don’t have to be an expert seamstress to use their products. My own sewing skills are modest and I can accomplish simple things like a flat sheet, blanket, etc. Another easy option is curtains for the nursery.
Gehman’s Country Fabrics is family owned and operated, with the best customer service of any company I have ever dealt with. They have frequent sales and also offer ready-made clothing for those who prefer to buy, rather than make.
Coton truly is best for most babies and for people of all ages. It is natural and some you can find the unbleached forms. I think our folks and Grandparents knew best, that all we wore!
Definitely the older generations understood this better. My great-grandfather was a tailor. He died long before I was born, but my grandmother (his daughter) taught me so much about clothing that she had learned from him. Natural fibers not only feel better, they are better for our health. Personally, I can’t stand anything that’s itchy. Cotton also lasts longer and looks better over time. The cheap blends fall apart in the wash so quickly.