If your baby struggles with eczema, you’ve likely tried everything—creams, baths, dietary changes, humidifiers.
But one of the most overlooked triggers sits against your baby’s skin all day and night: their clothes.
Eczema-prone skin is fragile. What touches it matters.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
Why certain fabrics worsen eczema
Which materials truly support healing skin
What to look for (and avoid) when buying baby clothes
Eczema is linked to a weakened skin barrier. This means:
Moisture escapes more easily
Irritants penetrate faster
Friction and heat cause inflammation
Clothing that traps heat, sheds microfibers, or contains synthetic additives can constantly irritate the skin, especially during sleep when babies sweat.
Many baby clothes marketed as “soft” or “eco-friendly” aren’t actually eczema-safe.
Trap heat and sweat
Don’t breathe
Shed microplastics that sit on the skin
Often processed with harsh chemicals
Synthetic stretch fibers increase friction
Plastic content reduces breathabilit
Many parents are surprised to learn that not all bamboo fabrics are created equal, especially when blended with synthetics — something we explain in more detail in our bamboo vs cotton comparison.
Cause constant rubbing
Aggravate already inflamed skin
Even a small percentage of synthetic fiber (3–5%) can be enough to trigger flare-ups in sensitive babies.
For eczema-prone skin, the goal is to support the skin barrier—not challenge it.
Look for fabrics that are:
Breathable
Moisture-wicking
Free from synthetic stretch fibers
When done properly, bamboo fabric can be:
Exceptionally soft
Naturally temperature-regulating
Gentle on inflamed, broken skin
However, purity matters. Bamboo blended with plastics behaves more like plastic than a natural fiber.
If you’re deciding between bamboo and cotton for eczema-prone skin, we break down the differences in breathability, processing, and skin impact in our detailed guide comparing bamboo vs cotton for babies.
When shopping for baby clothing, prioritize:
✔ 100% natural fibers
✔ No spandex, elastane, polyester, or nylon
✔ Loose, breathable fits
✔ Flat seams or seamless construction
✔ Tag-free designs
Most importantly, look for brands that are transparent about what’s actually in their fabric—not just the marketing language.
Nighttime is when eczema symptoms often worsen:
Babies sweat more during sleep
Skin does most of its repair overnight
Tight or synthetic pajamas trap heat for hours
Choosing breathable, irritation-free sleepwear can dramatically improve:
Night waking
Scratching
Overall skin comfort
For parents navigating fabric choices for sleepwear, understanding the difference between materials is key — especially when deciding between bamboo vs cotton for sensitive skin.
We believe babies with sensitive skin deserve better than “almost natural.”
That’s why our pajamas are made with pure, plastic-free fabric — no synthetic stretch fibers, no hidden blends, no compromises.
Because when it comes to eczema, less irritation means better rest.
If your baby has eczema, clothing isn’t just clothing — it’s part of their skincare routine.
Choosing the right fabric won’t replace medical care, but it removes a constant source of irritation, giving your baby’s skin the space it needs to heal.
If you’re still unsure which natural fabric is best for your baby, our bamboo vs cotton guide walks through the pros and cons in simple, parent-friendly terms.
If your baby’s skin reacts to most clothing, you’re not imagining it — and you’re not alone.
We created our sleepwear for parents who were tired of guessing what was really in their baby’s clothes. No hidden synthetics. No plastic blends. Just thoughtfully made, breathable fabric designed to be kind to sensitive skin.
If you’re ready to remove one more eczema trigger from your baby’s day (and night), you can explore our pajamas designed with purity, comfort, and rest in mind.
When shopping for baby clothing—especially pajamas—fabric choice matters more than most parents realize. Babies spend long hours sleeping, their skin is thinner and more absorbent than adults’, and many struggle with overheating, eczema, or irritation.
Two of the most common natural fabric options parents compare are 100% bamboo lyocell and 100% cotton. Both are popular, breathable, and widely marketed as “safe for babies.” But they’re not the same.
This guide breaks down the differences clearly—without fear‑mongering—so you can decide what’s best for your baby.
Bamboo lyocell is a <strong>regenerated cellulose fibre</strong> made from bamboo pulp using a closed‑loop process that recycles water and solvents. The end result is a fabric that behaves very differently from traditional bamboo viscose or rayon.
Cotton is a natural plant fibre that has been used in baby clothing for generations. It’s familiar, durable, and easy to care for.
Cotton fibers are naturally shorter and more textured, which can feel rougher against very sensitive or eczema-prone skin—especially when dry or heavily washed.
|
Feature |
100% Bamboo Lyocell |
100% Cotton |
|
Softness |
Ultra-soft, smooth fibers |
Soft but more textured |
|
Breathability |
Excellent |
Good |
|
Temperature Regulation |
Strong (cooling + insulating) |
Moderate |
|
Moisture Management |
Highly absorbent & wicking |
Absorbent but slower to dry |
|
Sensitive Skin |
Very gentle, low friction |
Can irritate some babies |
|
Durability |
Strong fibers when properly made |
Very durable |
|
Sustainability |
Closed-loop process, biodegradable |
Depends on farming & processing |
Cotton can still work well, especially organic cotton, but some parents find it less forgiving during flare-ups or temperature changes.
For more information about eczema-prone skin, check our our post about the best clothes for babies with eczema.
Bamboo lyocell adapts to body temperature, helping babies stay cooler when warm and warmer when cool. Cotton is breathable but less adaptive, which can sometimes lead to overheating or dampness overnight.
Bamboo Lyocell:
Cotton:
Choose 100% bamboo lyocell if:
Choose 100% cotton if:
When it comes to baby pajamas, comfort isn’t a luxury—it’s foundational. Fabric choice affects sleep quality, skin health, and even how often you’re dealing with discomfort or wake-ups.
Understanding the difference between <strong>100% bamboo lyocell and 100% cotton empowers you to choose what truly works for your baby—not just what’s most common.
If you’re navigating sensitive skin, night sweats, or simply want the softest possible option, bamboo lyocell is worth serious consideration.
For parents looking for soft, breathable, and sustainable baby pajamas, brands like Fifi & Ry use 100% bamboo lyocell to ensure your little one sleeps comfortably and safely without compromising on eco-conscious values.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for skin or allergy concerns.
