When it comes to raising little ones, parents are often faced with a barrage of decisions, from what to feed them to what to dress them in. And in today’s consumer landscape, a growing number of parents are making the conscious choice to go vegan in everything from groceries to clothing and gear.
What Does It Mean to Be a Vegan Parent?
At its core, veganism is about eliminating animal products from one’s diet and lifestyle. For parents, this means considering the materials and production methods behind the clothes, shoes, and accessories they buy for their children.
“As a mom, I want to do everything I can to reduce animal suffering,” says Sarah McQuaid, a mom of two in San Francisco. “And with so many great vegan options out there, it just makes sense to choose them.”
Benefits of Vegan Clothing and Gear
- Reducing animal suffering by avoiding leather, wool, and other animal-derived materials
- Supporting ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices
- Choosing products made with eco-friendly and recycled materials
And with so many stylish, sustainable, and animal-friendly options on the market, it’s easier than ever to shop your values.
Essential Vegan Clothing Items for Babies and Young Children
When it comes to dressing your little one in vegan clothing, there are a few essential categories to consider:
Clothing
- Tops: T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, and cardigans
- Bottoms: Jeans, leggings, shorts, and skirts
- Dresses: Sundresses, maxi dresses, and smocks
- Outerwear: Jackets, raincoats, and snowsuits
- Accessories: Hats, scarves, and gloves
Most children’s clothing brands offer vegan options made from plant-based fibers like organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp. Check the fabric content label to ensure the clothing is vegan.
Footwear
When it comes to shoes, look for vegan-friendly brands that use synthetic materials like faux leather, canvas, and rubber. You can also find shoes made with natural fibers like organic cotton and hemp.
- Shoes: Sneakers, boots, and sandals
- Socks and tights: Made from synthetic or natural fibers
Sleepwear and Loungewear
- Pajamas and robes: Made from soft and breathable fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo, and jersey knit
- Comfortable and cozy options for lounging at home, like leggings and sweatshirts
Many children’s sleepwear and loungewear brands offer vegan options, so be sure to read the fabric content labels or check the brand’s website for vegan certifications.
Vegan Gear and Accessories
In addition to clothing, there are plenty of other gear and accessory categories that offer vegan options:
Diaper Bags and Changing Supplies
Many diaper bags are made from faux leather or other synthetic materials. Look for brands that use recycled or eco-friendly materials, like Patagonia’s Diaper Bag.
- Vegan-friendly diaper bags made from synthetic materials or plant-based textiles
- Vegan-friendly changing pads and accessories
Some brands, like Bummigo, specialize in vegan, eco-friendly baby gear made from organic cotton, bamboo, and other plant-based materials.
Feeding Essentials
Bibs and burp cloths are essential feeding accessories for babies. You can find vegan options made from organic cotton, bamboo, or other plant-based fibers.
- Bibs made from quick-drying, waterproof materials
- Burp cloths in soft, absorbent fabrics
When it comes to bottles and sippy cups, you’ll want to choose plastic-free options made from stainless steel, glass, or silicone. Brands like Klean Kanteen and Born Free offer vegan-friendly baby bottles and sippy cups.
Nursery and Playtime
Outfit your nursery and playtime essentials with vegan-friendly options, such as:
- Crib bedding and blankets made from organic cotton, bamboo, or wool alternatives
- Toys and activity mats made from natural rubber, organic cotton, and other plant-based materials
Major toy brands like Melissa & Doug, Haba, and Plan Toys offer vegan-friendly toys made from sustainable materials.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
When shopping for vegan clothing and gear for your little ones, keep in mind that sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices are just as important as avoiding animal-derived materials.
Look for brands that use:
- Organic cotton and other sustainable fibers
- Recycled or repurposed materials
You can also check for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Oeko-Tex, and Fair Trade to ensure the products you’re buying are made using environmentally friendly and ethical production methods.
Many brands now share their sustainability practices on their websites, so take some time to read about their initiatives and values.
Example: Patagonia’s Children’s Clothing
Patagonia’s children’s clothing line, called “The Footy,” offers a range of vegan-friendly options made from organic cotton and recycled materials. The brand is also committed to fair labor practices and uses recycled polyester from plastic bottles in many of its products.
According to Patagonia, “We’ve been committed to using environmentally friendly materials since our founding in 1973. We were the first clothing company to use 100% organic cotton in all our products. Today, we offer a wide range of recycled and plant-based materials.”
Shopping and Caring for Vegan Clothing and Gear
Once you’ve found vegan-friendly brands that align with your values, it’s time to shop! Look for brands that offer:
- Online shopping with free or low-cost shipping
- In-store pickup or shopping at local retailers that carry the brand
When caring for your new vegan clothing and gear, be sure to read the care labels to ensure you’re washing and drying the items appropriately. Many plant-based fibers don’t require ironing and can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water.
With proper care, your vegan clothing and gear will last longer and reduce the need for frequent replacements.