Cotton is a plant-based fibre with many unique attributes. It is an excellent insulator when you are cold, but also cooling when you are too warm. In its natural state, cotton fibres are hypoallergenic. It is one of the few plants to have been domesticated independently in both the ‘new’ and ‘old’ world. Cotton materials are celebrated worldwide for their breathability, comfort, and softness, making them a perfect choice for pyjamas, particularly for children. Cotton’s ability to maintain body temperature and its softness on the skin contributes to its enduring popularity.
Cotton can also feel very different, depending on how it is treated. At one end of the spectrum, demin is one of the toughest wearing natural materials out there. Smooth, hard and unyielding. At the other end, muslin is translucent and ethereal. In between, brushed cotton is luxuriously soft and feels wonderfully cosy.
Choosing the Right Cotton Pyjamas for Your Kids
Cotton varies significantly in quality and texture, directly impacting its suitability for pyjamas. Common varieties include Egyptian cotton, known for its long fibres and luxurious softness, and are mostly used for bed linen.
Brushed cotton is particularly suitable for children's pyjamas due to its increased softness and warmth. The brushing process raises the fibres, creating a plush feel that enhances comfort and insulation. This type of cotton also tends to be more durable, resisting pilling and maintaining its texture through multiple washes.
Cotton Pyjamas Care Instructions
Preserving any fabric’s unique characteristics through time requires some consideration. Our sizing is generally about 15% larger than the child the pyjamas are intended for. Cotton is a natural material. The size overestimation accounts for modest shrinkage with washing, which is normal for cotton.
The Right Water Temperature and Detergent
Using lukewarm water and a mild detergent is key when washing cotton pyjamas. Hot water can cause significant shrinkage and fading, while harsh chemicals in strong detergents can break down cotton fibres over time.
Pre-Treat Stains
Addressing stains promptly and effectively ensures they do not set into the fabric, becoming more difficult to remove. Pre-treating stains with a gentle stain remover before washing can drastically improve the chances of maintaining your pyjamas’ pristine condition.
Decoding Care Labels
Always consult the care labels on children’s pyjamas before laundering. These labels provide essential information on water temperature, recommended wash cycle, and drying techniques specific to the fabric type and weave.
Recommended Detergents for Cotton Fabric
Opt for detergents that are designed for delicate fabrics. These are typically gentler and help maintain the fabric’s colour and texture. Avoid bleach as it can weaken cotton fibres and cause them to wear out sooner. Fabric conditioner/softener is generally okay to use on most cotton materials but may reduce the lifespan of lighter-weight fabrics such as muslin.
Machine Wash vs. Hand Wash
Be sure to check the care label whether a garment needs to be hand-washed. If using a washing machine, choose a gentle cycle and ensure the pyjamas are laundered with similar fabrics to avoid abrasion and pilling.
Drying and Ironing Cotton Pyjamas
Tumble drying should be done on a low heat setting to mitigate shrinkage. Cotton is susceptible to high heat, so air drying is the most gentle method to preserve fibres and prevent fading. If possible, air-drying by laying the garment flat best preserves the fabric’s shape and size.
Iron cotton pyjamas while they are still slightly damp to ease out wrinkles effectively. Use the cotton setting on your iron.
Extra Care for Prints and Embroidery
Printed and embellished pyjamas need extra attention. Always turn these garments inside out before washing to protect the details from abrasion. Ideally, use a mesh laundry bag to shield them further and choose a gentle wash cycle. When ironing, it is best to iron on the wrong side of printed or embellished sections to avoid damage.
