How to Tell if Your Child’s Clothes Are Toxic (And What to Do About It)

Not all children’s clothes are as safe as they look.

Bright colours, soft finishes, and trendy designs often hide a reality most parents don’t think about — the presence of harmful chemicals in kids’ clothing. While you might assume that all children’s clothes sold in India are safe, the truth is that there are very few strict regulations around fabric safety in our country.

This means that toxic dyes, chemical finishes, and unsafe fabrics often make their way into your child’s wardrobe. Over time, these can lead to skin irritation, allergies, and even long-term health concerns.

Here’s how to identify if your child’s clothes are toxic — and what you can do about it.

1. Read the Fabric Label Carefully
Labels that say polyester, nylon, or acrylic indicate synthetic fabrics. These are often treated with chemical dyes and finishes that can irritate sensitive skin. Look for clothes that clearly mention 100% cotton or are GOTS/OEKO-TEX certified.

2. Watch Out for Overly Bright or Neon Colours
Very bright shades, especially in budget clothing, may indicate the use of azo dyes or other chemical pigments banned in many countries but still used in India. These dyes can cause skin rashes and allergic reactions.

3. Beware of “Too Soft” or “Wrinkle-Free” Claims
If a fabric feels unnaturally smooth or claims to be wrinkle-free, it may have been treated with formaldehyde-based resins or silicone finishes — both of which can be harmful to the skin.

4. Test for Colour Bleeding
Before letting your child wear a new outfit, dip a hidden part of the fabric in warm water. If the colour bleeds heavily, it’s a sign of unstable dyes that may transfer to skin and cause irritation.

5. Notice Any Skin Reactions
If your child develops rashes, redness, or itching after wearing certain clothes, it may be due to the fabric or chemical treatment used. Discontinue use immediately and switch to safer fabrics.

What to Do if You Suspect Toxic Clothing

• Switch to certified 100% cotton kidswear from trusted brands.
• Wash all new clothes before first use to remove surface chemicals.
• Avoid synthetic fabrics, especially for infants and toddlers.
• Choose brands that are transparent about their fabric sourcing and safety standards.

At TOFU, every garment is made from safe, certified 100% cotton, free from harmful dyes and chemical finishes — because your child’s skin deserves the same care you give to their health and nutrition.

Explore TOFU’s safe kidswear collection