The Best Fabrics for Sensory Sensitivity (and What to Avoid)

A Parent’s Guide to Softer, Happier Days

If you’re parenting a sensory-sensitive child, you’ve probably already discovered how much a simple item of clothing can affect your whole day.

One moment everything’s calm - the next, they’re tugging at a shirt collar, refusing to wear a jumper, or completely melting down because the inside of a T-shirt “feels wrong.” It’s easy to feel helpless or even frustrated in the face of this, but as a parent of a sensory child, we know – it’s not naughtiness or being stubborn. It’s sensory overload.

For children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or autism, the way fabric feels on their skin can have a huge impact on comfort, mood, and confidence. Some textures can calm and soothe; others can overwhelm and distress.

As a parent who’s spent sooo many mornings negotiating dressing, I’ve learned that choosing the right fabric can help. Here’s what’s helped us - and what you might find works for your child too.

Why fabric choice matters

Our skin is full of sensory receptors - tiny nerve endings that constantly send messages to the brain about touch, temperature, and pressure. For children with sensory sensitivities, those signals can be amplified, muted, or distorted.

Issues with sensory regulation might leave them unable to tune out or ‘ignore’ irritations.

A seam that feels soft to us might feel scratchy to them. A stiff label might feel like a sharp edge. Even slight differences in weave, weight, or temperature can make clothes unbearable.

That’s why sensory-friendly fabrics matter so much: they help regulate tactile input, reducing irritation and promoting calm. Comfort becomes the foundation for confidence - whether it’s focusing at school, playing freely, or simply feeling relaxed in their own skin.

The best fabrics for sensory-sensitive children

When it comes to dressing comfort, texture, breathability, and stretch are key. Below are some parent and sensory child-approved favourites.

1. Cotton – the classic comfort fabric

Soft, breathable, and natural, cotton is often a safe starting point. It allows air to circulate, absorbs moisture, and feels gentle on the skin.

Look for:

• High-quality combed cotton (fewer short fibres = smoother feel)
• Organic cotton, which is often softer because it’s processed without harsh chemicals
• Tag-free and flat-seamed designs (like those we favour at Sensory Smart) for extra comfort

Avoid cotton blends with stiff finishes - they can feel coarse or clingy.

2. Bamboo – silky soft and breathable

Bamboo fabric has become a favourite for sensory clothing, and it’s easy to see why. It’s incredibly soft - often described as “silky” - and naturally breathable.

It’s also temperature-regulating, helping keep your child cool in summer and warm in winter. For children who dislike feeling too hot or cold, bamboo can offer steady comfort.

It’s hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for children with eczema or sensitive skin.

3. Modal – soft, smooth and drapey

Modal is made from beech tree pulp and is one of the softest materials you can find. It’s smooth, lightweight, and less prone to shrinking or hardening in the wash than cotton.

Because of its silky surface, it glides easily over the skin - perfect for children who dislike friction or stiffness.

4. Lycra, Elastane or Spandex – for children who crave stretch

Some sensory-seeking children actually like snug clothing because gentle pressure helps calm and regulate their nervous system.

Fabrics with stretch - such as lycra or elastane blends - can feel like a reassuring “hug.” They also reduce wrinkling or bunching, which can trigger irritation.

Look for seamless or tagless options.  Check any heavy compression is designed specifically for therapy and seek advice from an OT (preferably SI trained) before using.

5. Viscose or Rayon – light and smooth

Viscose (or rayon) is semi-natural, made from plant fibres, and often feels very smooth against the skin. It drapes beautifully and rarely clings, which can help children who dislike tight-fitting clothes.

6. Soft wool alternatives – warmth without itch

Many children find traditional wool unbearable, but modern options like merino wool are much finer, softer, and itch-free.

Merino wool is lightweight, breathable, and excellent for regulating body temperature - perfect for cooler months.

If your child tolerates it, merino layers can feel cosy without bulk. Always check that it’s pure merino or blended with soft fibres like bamboo or modal.

Fabrics and finishes to avoid

Just as some fabrics soothe, others can aggravate sensory sensitivities. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Rough or stiff materials - Denim, corduroy, tulle, and coarse wool often feel too harsh.
2. Synthetic-heavy blends - High polyester or nylon can trap heat and cause clingy discomfort, check if moisture wicking fibres are blended in.
3. Embellishments - Sequins, glitter, embroidery, or raised transfers can scratch or press unevenly.
4. Labels and thick seams - Cut out tags or buy label-free. Turn items inside out to check for rough seams.
5. Chemical finishes - Avoid wrinkle-resistant or heavily treated fabrics; organic or Oeko-Tex certified is best.

Practical tips for stress-free dressing

Even with soft fabrics, comfort is about more than just material. Here are a few extra things that have made life easier for our family:

1. Let your child choose their textures.
• Offer two options and let them feel both - empowerment reduces anxiety.
2. Wash new clothes before wearing.
• This softens fibres and removes factory residues.
3. Check for hidden irritants.
• Elastic waistbands, zips, or printed logos can be triggers.
4. Buy multiples of favourites.
• If you find a T-shirt or leggings they love, stock up! Familiar comfort saves stress.
5. Think about layering.
• Soft base layers made from cotton, modal, or bamboo can make other clothes more tolerable.

How to test fabrics

When you’re choosing clothes or fabrics, don’t just run your fingers over them - really feel them. Our hands are used to all sorts of textures, so they’re not as sensitive as other parts of our body.

To experience them as a child might, try:

• Rubbing the fabric gently against your cheek or neck. These areas have thinner, more delicate skin, similar to a child’s skin thickness.
• Brushing it across the inside of your wrist or forearm. This softer skin reacts more like a sensory child’s might.
• Pressing it lightly against your collarbone or behind your knee. You’ll quickly notice if it’s scratchy, stiff, or irritating.

If a fabric feels even slightly rough, tickly, or clingy to you, it’ll likely feel ten times worse to a sensory-sensitive child.

Testing this way helps you tune into their experience - and often gives you a deeper appreciation of just how much courage it takes for them to navigate the world’s textures every day.

The comfort connection

When our children feel comfortable in their clothes, it’s not just about avoiding meltdowns - it’s also about confidence, calm, and self-expression.

We’ve all seen that moment when they finally wear something soft and say, “This one feels nice.” It’s a quiet victory - the kind that sets the tone for the whole day.

As parents, we can’t control every sensory experience our children face, but we can make their clothes a place of comfort and safety.

So next time you’re shopping, take a moment to feel the fabric - really feel it. Because what seems soft enough for you might not be soft enough for them. But when you get it right? You’ll see it instantly: relaxed shoulders, a smile, and maybe - just maybe - a morning without battles.

At Sensory Smart, comfort is at the heart of everything we do - from soft, seamless socks to adaptive clothing designed to support children with sensory sensitivities. Explore our collection of sensory-friendly clothing and accessories and find the fabrics that help your child feel truly at ease in their own skin.