At Eczema Clothing, we have been pioneering the use of organic cotton for over 40 years, which is when we first designed our Cotton Mitten PJs to help children with itchy skin sleep better.

Now, we stock over 12 brands for adults and children, but we still believe in natural material, using organic cotton in all of the garments that we sell.

Generally, evidence suggests highly processed synthetic fabrics, as well as wool - even though it is natural - can aggravate sensitive skin. Wool can be coarse or very textured, which can rub against inflamed skin and its powerful heat retention properties can make it less breathable. It can also act as a trigger for people with allergies, a high proportion of whom also have some form of dermatitis.

What is the Best Fabric for Eczema?

The best-known organic fabrics are organic cotton, silk and bamboo. These are all smooth fabrics that do not have harsh textile fibres, which can prickle sensitive skin and cause physical irritation.

Organic Cotton

Organic Cotton has been the long-term fabric of choice for eczema sufferers. It's a natural fabric that already has softness and stretch, plus it’s durable and regains its shape on washing. Organic cotton has environmental benefits as its growing process uses far less water than standard cotton and has certifications (e.g., GOTS) ensure that no chemicals or harmful dyes are used. It is easy to care for and importantly for eczema sufferers, it can be washed at 60 degrees or higher, ensuring that all house dust mite allergen and residues of oil/cream and dead skin that have built up on the inside of clothing can be removed.

Silk

Silk is also a natural fibre which can be produced without pesticides and fertilisers. It is best known for its strength and durability as well as its aesthetic appeal. Like cotton, it is soft as well as breathable and strong, as well as being able to absorb moisture. Wearing silk can feel luxurious, a well-earned daily pleasure if you're coping with sore skin. The key challenges with silk are the low washing temperatures and the high cost. 

Bamboo

Bamboo is another fairly new textile which has rapidly grown in popularity. It is soft and lightweight with effective wicking and moisture absorbing properties that helps keep skin dry and cool. It also has hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties. Bamboo is a plant that grows very quickly without using pesticides so is deemed to be an eco-friendly and sustainable fibre, although significant chemical processes are needed to change a hard plant into a soft yarn.  It also needs washing at low temperatures, so can’t remove dustmites or embedded creams effectively.

Why is Organic Cotton Better for Eczema?

Organic cotton is often considered better for people with eczema because of the way it’s grown, processed, and how the fabric interacts with sensitive skin. Here are the main reasons why we choose organic cotton for Eczema Clothing:

Reduced Chemical Exposure

Organic fabrics, such as organic cotton, are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This means that they are less likely to contain residual chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. Conventional cotton farming often involves the use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers, which can leave traces on the fabric.

Hypoallergenic

Organic fabrics are less likely to trigger allergies or skin sensitivities because they are produced without the use of harsh chemicals. This makes them a preferable choice for people with conditions like eczema, as they are less likely to cause skin irritation.

Breathability

Organic fabrics tend to be more breathable than synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. This breathability allows air to circulate more freely around the skin, reducing the risk of heat and moisture build up, which can exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Softness

Organic cotton and other organic materials are often praised for their softness. This can be particularly comforting for individuals with sensitive or irritated skin, as the fabric is less likely to chafe or cause friction.

Moisture Absorption

Organic cotton and bamboo have natural moisture-wicking properties, which can help keep the skin dry. This is especially important for eczema sufferers, as excess moisture can exacerbate their symptoms.

Washing at 60 Degrees Removes Dustmites and Allergens

Organic cotton can be washed at 60 degrees - unlike synthetics, bamboo and silk.  This temperature kills dustmites and removes allergens and embedded creams - which if petroleum based can become a fire hazard. 

Eco-Friendly

Organic farming practices are generally more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Choosing organic fabrics supports these practices and reduces the environmental impact associated with conventional cotton production, which can involve heavy pesticide and water use.

What are the Worst Fabrics for Sensitive Skin?

When you have sensitive skin, certain fabrics can make irritation, redness, or itching much worse. Here are the worst fabrics for sensitive skin and why you might want to avoid them:

Wool (Especially Coarse Wool)

Wool fibers are thick and rough, which makes them one of the most irritating fabrics for sensitive skin. Even high-quality wool can feel scratchy and uncomfortable. For people with eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis, wool often triggers flare ups and can worsen symptoms.

Synthetic Fabrics (Polyester, Nylon, Acrylic, Spandex)

Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex tend to trap heat and sweat against the skin, since they do not breathe well. This moisture buildup can lead to itching, rashes, or breakouts. Additionally, these fabrics are often dyed or treated with chemicals that may cause allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin.

Rough or Heavily Textured Fabrics (Tweed, Denim, Canvas)

Rough fabrics such as tweed, denim, and canvas can rub and chafe against the skin due to their stiff weaves. Prolonged friction from these materials often causes redness, irritation, and discomfort, especially in areas where the skin folds or experiences movement, such as the inner thighs, underarms, or the neck.

Dyed or Chemically Treated Fabrics

Fabrics that have been heavily dyed or treated with wrinkle-resistant or flame-retardant finishes often contain harsh chemicals. These chemicals can irritate the skin and trigger allergic contact dermatitis, making them unsuitable for those with skin sensitivities.

Feel Comfortable in Your Own Skin with Eczema Clothing

Living with eczema or sensitive skin can be challenging, but choosing the right fabrics is one simple step that can make everyday life more comfortable. Natural fibres aren’t just about avoiding irritation, they’re about giving your skin the space to breathe, keeping you cool and calm, and helping you feel at ease throughout the day.

At Eczema Clothing, we understand how important that comfort is. That’s why we’ve spent decades working with organic cotton to create and curate clothing that really works for sensitive skin. Whether you’re looking for nightwear that helps you sleep soundly or everyday essentials that won’t aggravate your skin, our collections are designed with care.

If you’re ready to try clothing that puts your skin first, explore our range of organic cotton clothing, because feeling good in what you wear should never be complicated.