Choosing the right underwear for your child depends on fit, comfort, absorbency, easy care and style. Start with basics in Cotton and move to technical performance fabrics as your child gets older.
Underwear may seem like a simple item of clothing, but it’s an important part of your child’s comfort, health and hygiene. From functionality to fabric, there are many factors to consider when selecting the best underwear for your little one.
Fit And Size
Proper fit is key for underwear that will last and feel comfortable all day. Look for:
- Elastic waistbands and leg openings – These adjust to grow with your child for several months or years.
- Tag-less designs – These avoid irritation from labels rubbing against sensitive skin.
- Flat seams – Seams that lay flat reduce chafing and discomfort.
- moisture-wicking fabrics – These pull sweat away from the skin to keep your child dry and comfortable.
- Adjustable designs – Some underwear features adjustable tabs, straps or sides for a more custom fit.
Absorbency And Layering
For younger children’s underwear, choose:
- Training pants – These look like regular underwear but feature built-in absorbency for daytime or overnight use.
- Triple-layer designs – With a waterproof outer layer, absorbent middle layer and soft inner layer against the skin.
For older children and teens:
- Breathable cotton – For everyday wear, cotton underwear allows airflow and absorbs sweat.
- Performance fabrics – designs made with technical fabrics like modal and spandex to wick moisture and increase comfort.
- Multi-layer systems – Wear a cotton base layer underneath outer performance layers for added comfort.
Washability
Look for underwear made with:
- Machine-washable fabrics – Most cotton, modal and synthetic blends can be laundered in warm or cold water.
- Stain-resistant finishes – These minimize stains from accidents, food, dirt and other messes.
- Quick-dry designs – These help underwear dry faster between wears to minimize bacteria and odor.
Style And Design
Offer your child options like:
- Briefs – Provide full coverage and support.
- Boxer briefs – Offer freedom of motion with a banded leg.
- Trunk or hipster styles – Provide a little more versatility with shorter legs.
- Bikini or hipster cuts – For older girls, these offer less constriction.
- Character designs – Your child may prefer underwear featuring their favorite cartoon characters.
- Solids and patterns – From polka dots to stripes, let your child express their style.
- Multiple colors – White is basic but colors offer fun choices.