Useful tips for treating baby and children's clothes

Keeping baby and children's clothes in good condition can seem like a challenge - constant stains, wear and tear and frequent washing don't help - but with proper care, it is possible to extend the life of these items.

This article offers you practical tips for washing and treating baby and children's clothes , so that they stay beautiful and comfortable for longer. And of course, the better their condition, the more likely you are to be able to sell them to Petit Fox once they no longer fit!

1. Choosing the Right Washing Products

• Gentle Detergents : Use detergents specifically designed for baby clothes, which are formulated to be gentle and hypoallergenic. Avoid products with strong perfumes and harsh chemicals.
• Fabric softeners : Choose fabric softeners specifically designed for children's clothing or avoid using them, as they can cause irritation to babies' sensitive skin.

2. Separating Clothes

• Colors and Fabrics : Separate clothes by color (light and dark) and fabric type (delicate and durable) to avoid discoloration and wear.
• Stained Clothes : Treat stains immediately before washing. Use stain removal products that are safe for baby clothes.

  • Stain Removal Tips

    • Food Stains : For food stains, such as from fruits and vegetables, apply a mixture of water and white vinegar directly to the stain before washing.
    • Milk and Formula Stains : Use an enzymatic detergent to pre-treat milk and formula stains. Let soak for 30 minutes before washing.
    • Oil and Grease Stains : Sprinkle talcum powder or cornstarch over the stain to absorb excess oil. Then wash with hot water and detergent.
    • Mud and Dirt Stains : Allow mud to dry completely and brush off excess. Wash with cold water and detergent.
    • Ink Stains : Use isopropyl alcohol to remove ink stains. Apply directly to the stain and wash as normal.
    • Urine and Feces Stains : Rinse the stained area with cold water and apply an enzymatic detergent. Let it soak before washing.

3. Washing Techniques

• Water Temperature : Wash baby clothes in warm or cold water to prevent shrinkage and wear. Hot water can be used occasionally to disinfect, but should not be the norm.
• Wash Cycle : Use delicate wash cycles to protect the fabric fibers. Avoid spinning too intensely.

4. Drying Clothes

• Air Drying : Whenever possible, air dry your clothes. Sunlight helps disinfect and remove stains, but avoid prolonged exposure to the sun to avoid fading the colors.
• Machine Drying : If using a machine dryer, choose the low heat setting to avoid shrinkage and damage to fabrics.

5. Proper Storage

• Folding and Storing : Fold clothes carefully and store them in dry, airy places. Avoid damp places that can cause mold.
• Organization : Use organizers and dividers to keep clothes neat and tidy and easy to find.

6. Special Care

• Delicate Clothes : Hand wash very delicate clothes or use washing bags to protect small, fragile items in the machine.
• Wool and Cotton Clothing : Follow specific washing instructions for wool and cotton clothing, which may require special care to avoid distortion.

With the right care, it is possible to keep baby and children's clothes in excellent condition for longer. In the Petit Fox Portugal online store you will find a carefully selected selection of second-hand baby, children's and maternity clothes that are a perfect example of the benefits of taking proper care of clothes!