The Best Fabrics for Newborns: Soft, Safe, and Breathable

Soft, snuggly, and gentle on sensitive skin, our fabrics are thoughtfully chosen for baby’s first days when every touch is completely brand new, and the right materials make a difference in how they feel. 
 
Learn more about our distinctive, earth-friendly fabrics: what makes each one special, and how to care for them so they last for wash after wash. 

TENCEL™ Modal: Our Bio-Based and Bestselling Fabric

Silky-soft, stretchy, and longlasting, our modal footies are our #1 bestseller. Made from beechwood trees, a natural and renewable raw material,  TENCEL™ modal is more durable than bamboo and glides effortlessly over skin to make dressing easier.

Modal is also temperature regulating, so it feels cool and summer and warm in winter, helping baby stay comfortable day and night.  

One thing parents especially love: modal is pill- and fade-resistant, so it holds up to the many washes.

GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton: Gentle and Durable

Grown without harsh chemicals, our organic cotton styles carry GOTS certification (Global Organic Textile Standard), one of the most rigorous organic certifications in the textile world.

The feel is different from modal: fluffy-soft and gentle but a bit of a thicker knit. It’s also breathable and hypoallergenic, making it a gentle choice for little ones with sensitive skin. 

Organic cotton is also incredibly durable. Many families find their favorite pieces last through multiple children, with well-loved footies getting passed down to baby siblings.

CloudStretch™: Soft with Ample Stretch

Designed for endless activity, our CloudStretch™ styles are buttery-soft with four-way stretch, so they move with your baby yet still hold their shape. 

It’s especially great for active babies, comfortable and durable for hours of play and non-stop washes.  Think of it as our everyday, all-season option.

Pointelle: Beautiful and Breathable

With its delicate, open-knit pattern, our pointelle styles are a beautiful option for first photos, baby shower gifts, or any time you want to something a little extra special. Crafted in organic cotton, it’s an heirloom-worthy style that’s also breathable and practical, especially for warmer months.

How to Care for Our Fabrics

All of our fabrics are easy to machine wash. A few simple habits keep them looking and feeling their best:
- Wash before the first wear. A quick, cold cycle is all you need.
- Close all magnets before washing.
- Washing in cold water and drying for 30 minutes on low heat will protect both the fabric and the magnets.
- Skip the fabric softener, as it can reduce breathability over time.

Ready to start building your nursery wardrobe? Our newborn gift sets are a great way to try a few of our favorite fabrics in one go — and they make a pretty great baby shower gift too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which fabric is best for a baby who runs warm?

Opt for styles in TENCEL™ modal, which is lightweight, breathable, and temperature-regulating.

Is modal warmer than cotton?

Not exactly. Modal is temperature-regulating rather than insulating, which means it adapts to the moment. For cooler nights, layering or choosing a cozy organic cotton style is a great option.

Does organic cotton shrink?

It can shrink slightly if washed in hot water, so we always recommend washing in cold water and drying on low heat.

What’s the difference between modal and bamboo?

Both are soft, plant-based fabrics, but made differently. Modal comes from beechwood trees; bamboo comes from bamboo grass. We love TENCEL™ modal specifically because it’s more durable than bamboo and less likely to pill. 

How many outfits does a newborn need?

A good starting point is 7–10 footies and 2-3 gowns. Our newborn gift sets are a great way to start building your nursery wardrobe.