When shopping for kids' clothes online, fabric quality matters more than almost anything else. Because you can’t touch or feel the material in person, understanding what makes certain fabrics softer, stronger, and more comfortable can help you make confident choices, especially for pieces like pajamas that children and babies wear for hours at a time.
At Lila and Hayes, fabric has always been at the heart of what we do. From the very beginning, we believed that Pima cotton offered something truly special for children’s clothing. Its softness, breathability, and durability make it one of the best options for kids of all ages, from newborns to big kids. Below, we answer common questions like what Pima cotton is, how it compares to regular cotton, whether Pima cotton shrinks, and why so many families consider it worth the investment.
What Is Pima Cotton?
Pima cotton is a premium variety of cotton known for its exceptional softness and strength. What sets it apart from regular cotton is its extra-long staple fibers. These longer fibers create a smoother, more refined fabric that feels noticeably softer against the skin.
Lila and Hayes uses 100% Peruvian Pima cotton, widely regarded as the highest quality Pima cotton available. Peru’s climate and longstanding textile expertise produce cotton fibers that are naturally soft, durable, and consistent, qualities that matter most in children’s clothing and sleepwear.
Because of its structure and quality, Pima cotton clothing is breathable, gentle on sensitive skin, and designed to maintain its softness and shape over time. These qualities make it an ideal choice for babies and children who wear their clothes for long stretches throughout the day and night.
Pima cotton is especially well-suited for children’s clothing because it:
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Feels soft and smooth from the first wear
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Breathes well in both warm and cool temperatures
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Resists pilling and fading
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Holds its shape through frequent washing
Why Our Founders Chose Peruvian Pima Cotton?
When sourcing fabrics for Lila and Hayes, the founders travelled to Peru to better understand the craftsmanship behind Pima cotton and to build relationships with trusted partners who specialize in high-quality textile production. That experience played an important role in shaping the brand’s commitment to Peruvian Pima cotton.
Choosing this fabric was about consistency, quality, and care. From those early decisions to today’s collections, Lila and Hayes have remained focused on creating children’s clothing that feels good, wears well, and stands the test of time.
Pima Cotton vs Regular Cotton
One of the most common questions parents ask is, “Pima cotton vs cotton, what’s the difference?” The answer comes down to fiber length and performance.
Pima cotton fibers are significantly longer than those found in regular cotton. Longer fibers create smoother yarns, which means fewer loose ends, less friction, and a fabric that holds up better over time. This results in clothing that feels softer against the skin and maintains its appearance longer, even with frequent washing.
While Pima cotton clothing often comes at a higher price point than standard cotton, many families find that its durability and comfort make it a worthwhile investment for children’s wardrobes.
Is Pima Cotton Good for Children and Babies?
Parents often ask, is Pima cotton good for kids? The answer is yes, especially for babies and young children.
Pima cotton is naturally soft and breathable, helping regulate body temperature and reduce irritation. The smooth fibers are gentle on sensitive skin, making Pima cotton clothing a comfortable choice for newborns, infants, and children alike.
Because it balances softness with durability, Pima cotton works well for everyday clothing as well as pajamas for boys and pajamas for girls that need to stay comfortable night after night.
Does Pima Cotton Shrink?
Like most natural fibers, Pima cotton can shrink if exposed to heat. Even though Peruvian Pima cotton fibers are longer and stronger than regular cotton, heat can still cause shrinkage.
To help maintain the fit and feel of your pima cotton pajamas and clothing, Lila and Hayes recommend washing in cold water and laying flat or hanging to dry. Avoiding high heat in the washer or dryer helps preserve the fabric’s softness, shape, and longevity
Also Read: How to Care for Kids’ Clothes?
Why Pima Cotton Is Worth the Investment?
Pima cotton stands out because it offers comfort and durability in equal measure. For families buying kids' clothes online, that means fewer replacements and better long-term value.
Whether you’re shopping for everyday essentials or pajamas, Pima cotton offers breathable comfort, lasting softness, and fabric that continues to look and feel beautiful wash after wash. These qualities make it especially well-suited for children’s clothing, which needs to keep up with active days, frequent laundering, and growing bodies.
Why We Choose Pima Cotton at Lila and Hayes?
At Lila and Hayes, we believe children deserve clothing that feels good, lasts well, and supports everyday life. That’s why we continue to use premium Peruvian Pima cotton across most of our collections.
From babies to big kids, our Pima cotton clothing is designed with comfort, quality, and longevity in mind. When you choose Lila and Hayes, you’re choosing thoughtfully made pieces that families can feel confident putting on their children day after day.
