Choosing the best baby yarn for a knitting project

It is important to choose the right kind of yarn when knitting or crocheting clothes for a baby. Not all yarns are suitable and could cause irritation to such sensitive skin.

Suitable types of yarns are commonly referred to by the term “baby” when discussing them. Baby yarn does not refer to a single kind of yarn but is a term that encompasses many types.

What properties are important for baby yarn?

Baby yarn must not itch, because this could irritate delicate baby skin. Choose only soft, non-itchy and non-irritating yarn. For help with Aran Yarn, visit https://www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/aran-yarn

Choose a type of yarn that can withstand being washed at high temperatures. It is common for babies to have a small amount of leakage from both ends! If the toys or clothes can be washed, this will make it easier and more convenient for parents.

Also, the yarn must have breathable qualities and be temperature-regulating, as babies do not communicate when they become too hot. It is therefore important that the fabric isn’t too thick. Natural materials are better than artificial ones, which tend to be less breathable.

Last but not least, choose yarns that are relatively thin. Most people don’t realise that the weight of the yarn should also be reduced. If not, the baby may have trouble moving because the fabric is too heavy.

Consider these kinds of yarn

There are several different types of yarns that can be used but the following two are the most popular:

100% cotton

Cotton yarn can be machine washed and tumble dried. It is lightweight, breathable and ideal for baby clothes. However, coloured cotton should only ever reach temperatures above 40 degrees or 60.

100% wool yarn

If the yarn is labelled as 100% new or pure wool, you can use it. It is important that the yarn fibres are so fine, they do not irritate baby skin. A 100% wool yarn can be washed in the machine.

As mentioned previously, it is not possible to categorise baby yarn by a set of rules. You are not obliged to stick to just these two kinds of yarn. It is still wise, however, to consider these qualities when you are shopping for baby’s yarn.