When you’ve invested in beautiful, handmade baby clothes, you want them to last as long as possible. Handmade garments are crafted with care and attention to detail, but they often require a bit more love when it comes to washing and maintenance.
Don’t worry – taking care of your baby’s handmade clothes isn’t difficult! With a few simple tips, you can keep them looking as lovely as the day they were made.
Here’s a complete guide to caring for your baby’s handmade clothes, ensuring they remain soft, vibrant, and in perfect condition.
1. Always Check the Care Instructions
The first rule of thumb when caring for handmade baby clothes is always to check the care label or any specific instructions that come with the item. Different fabrics may require different levels of care, so it’s important to follow those recommendations to keep your clothes in top condition.
If the item doesn’t come with care instructions, it’s always safe to err on the side of caution by opting for gentle washing and drying methods (more on that below).
2. Hand Wash or Use a Gentle Cycle
Hand washing is the safest option for delicate, handmade baby clothes. It ensures that fabrics aren’t exposed to harsh machine cycles that could cause damage.
Here’s how to hand wash your baby’s handmade clothes properly:
- Fill a basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water.
- Add a mild, baby-friendly detergent.
- Gently swish the clothes in the water, paying special attention to any stained areas.
- Let the clothes soak for a few minutes if needed, but avoid excessive scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean, cool water.
If hand washing isn’t possible, use your machine’s gentle or delicate cycle with cold water to reduce wear and tear on the fabric. Always use a mild detergent that’s suitable for baby clothes, as strong chemicals can irritate your baby’s skin and damage delicate fabrics.
3. Wash Similar Colours Together
Just like with your own clothes, it’s important to separate lights from darks to prevent colour bleeding.
Handmade baby clothes, especially those made with vibrant or patterned fabrics, may be more prone to colour transfer during the wash. Washing similar colours together is the best way to protect the fabric from fading or staining.
For extra precaution, you can add a colour-catcher sheet to the wash, which helps to trap any loose dyes and prevents them from settling on other clothes.
4. Air Dry Whenever Possible
Air drying is the best way to keep handmade baby clothes in great shape. The heat from tumble dryers can cause shrinkage, weaken fabrics, or even damage delicate trims and details. Here’s how to air-dry your baby’s clothes properly:
- Lay items flat on a clean towel, gently reshaping them if needed.
- For clothes with more structure, like rompers, hang them on a clothesline or drying rack, but avoid using direct sunlight as this can cause colours to fade.
If you must use a tumble dryer, select the lowest heat setting and place the clothes in a mesh laundry bag for added protection. Avoid over-drying, which can lead to fabric damage.
5. Treat Stains Gently
Babies are messy, and stains are inevitable! When treating stains on handmade baby clothes, the key is to be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric. Follow these simple steps to tackle stains effectively:
- Act quickly: The sooner you treat the stain, the easier it will be to remove.
- Dab (don’t rub) the stain with a clean cloth or sponge to lift any excess before washing.
- Pre-soak the stained area in cool water mixed with a small amount of mild detergent or a baby-safe stain remover.
- Gently work the solution into the stain with your fingers or a soft brush.
Avoid using bleach or harsh chemical stain removers, as these can weaken the fabric and cause colours to fade.
6. Store Handmade Baby Clothes Carefully
When storing your baby’s handmade clothes, it’s essential to take a few precautions to ensure they stay in good condition. Before putting them away, make sure all garments are clean and completely dry to prevent mould or mildew from forming. Store the clothes in a cool, dry place, folded neatly to avoid wrinkles or creases.
For long-term storage, consider placing items in a breathable cotton bag rather than a plastic one, as plastic can trap moisture and lead to discolouration.
7. Iron with Care
If your baby’s clothes need ironing, do so with caution, especially with delicate fabrics.
Use the lowest heat setting possible and, if needed, place a clean cloth between the iron and the garment to avoid direct heat contact. This is particularly important for printed or embellished fabrics to prevent damage or fading.
Some handmade items may not need ironing at all, especially if they’ve been properly reshaped during drying, but for those that do, a gentle touch is key.
8. Mend Small Damages Early
Handmade baby clothes are built to last, but with frequent wear, small damages like loose threads or tiny holes may occur.
The best way to extend the life of these clothes is to address these issues early on. A quick stitch to secure a loose seam or button can prevent bigger problems down the line, keeping your baby’s handmade garments in excellent condition for longer.
If you’re not confident with needle and thread, a local seamstress or alterations specialist can help with minor repairs.
Conclusion
Caring for your baby’s handmade clothes doesn’t have to be complicated! By following these simple steps – hand washing, air drying, and handling stains gently – you’ll keep your baby’s garments looking as good as new.
At Bibbiti’s Boutique, we take pride in crafting high-quality, handmade items designed to last. With a little extra care, your baby’s clothes will remain as soft, vibrant, and special as the day they were made.