How to Choose Baby Washcloths: Organic Cotton vs Terry
By Burt's Bees Baby | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: How-to Guides
Compare organic cotton and terry cloth baby washcloths. Learn which material suits your baby's skin, how many to buy, and what to look for in a newborn washcloth.
Quick answer
For most newborns and sensitive skin, choose organic cotton knit terry washcloths. They combine the absorbency of terry with the gentleness of organic fibers, and they hold up well to frequent washing.
Why material matters for baby washcloths
Baby skin is thinner and more absorbent than adult skin, so the washcloth material directly affects comfort. Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, reducing the risk of irritation. Terry cloth refers to the looped weave that creates soft absorbency, not a specific fiber. Many organic cotton washcloths use a terry weave on one side and a smooth knit on the other, giving you both gentleness and absorbency in one cloth.
Key differences between organic cotton and standard terry
Standard terry washcloths may be made from conventional cotton or synthetic blends. Organic cotton terry combines the fiber purity of organic cotton with the functional weave of terry. The combed and ring-spun cotton used in many organic washcloths reduces pilling and stays soft through repeated washes. If your baby has eczema or very sensitive skin, the organic certification adds peace of mind.
How many washcloths you need
Most parents find that a pack of three washcloths is a good starting point. You'll use one for bath time, one for face and hands, and one as a spare for spills or diaper changes. Because babies are messy, having multiple cloths lets you always grab a clean one without doing laundry every day.
Decision rules for choosing baby washcloths
- Newborn or sensitive skin: Choose 100% organic cotton washcloths. Look for GOTS certification to ensure no synthetic chemicals are used. The smooth side of knit terry cloths is ideal for delicate newborn skin.
- Absorbency needs: If you need maximum absorbency for bath time or cleaning up spills, choose a terry weave. Organic cotton knit terry provides the same absorbency as conventional terry without the chemical concerns.
- Durability for frequent washing: Look for washcloths made with combed and ring-spun cotton. This construction resists pilling and stays soft through dozens of wash cycles, making it a better long-term value. Check the care label: most organic cotton washcloths can be machine washed and dried, but avoid fabric softeners that can reduce absorbency.
- Size and versatility: Standard 9x9 inch washcloths work for bath time, face washing, and cleaning up messes. Smaller cloths are harder to hold; larger ones are harder to wring out. Stick with the 9-inch square size for everyday use.
Washcloth options from Burt's Bees Baby
- Golden Bee Organic Cotton Knit Terry Washcloths 3 Pack: 100% organic cotton knit terry, smooth on one side and loop on the other, combed and ring-spun for durability and no-pill washing. You get the softness of organic cotton with the absorbency of terry, plus the smooth side is gentle for wiping a baby's face.
Golden Bee Organic Cotton Knit Terry Washcloths 3 Pack - Flower Meadow Organic Cotton Knit Terry Washcloths Pack of 3: 100% GOTS certified organic cotton knit terry with rib trim, designed for bathtime, face washing, and quick cleanups. GOTS certification means the entire supply chain meets strict organic and social standards, so you know exactly what touches your baby's skin.
Flower Meadow Organic Cotton Knit Terry Washcloths Pack of 3
Which washcloth is right for you?
Best for
- Newborns and babies with sensitive or eczema-prone skin who need a gentle, certified organic option
- Parents who want a durable washcloth that stays soft after many washes
Not for
- Parents who prefer a very textured, scrubby cloth for older toddlers (organic knit terry is gentle, not abrasive)
