How to Wash and Care for Organic Cotton Baby Pajamas

By Burt's Bees Baby | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: How-to Guides

Keep your baby's organic cotton pajamas soft and lasting with these simple washing and drying steps. Learn the best practices to avoid shrinkage, pilling, and fading.

Quick answer

Wash organic cotton baby pajamas in cold water on a gentle cycle, use a mild detergent, and tumble dry on low or air dry to preserve softness and fit.

Why organic cotton needs gentle care

Organic cotton fibers are less processed than conventional cotton, which makes them softer but also more delicate. Harsh detergents or hot water can break down these fibers faster, leading to pilling or loss of shape. A gentle approach keeps pajamas feeling like new wash after wash.

Some baby pajamas, like Burt's Bees Baby Honeysoft™ Lyocell blends, combine organic cotton with TENCEL™ Lyocell and spandex for extra silkiness and stretch. The lyocell fibers are made from responsibly sourced wood pulp using an earth-friendly process, and they require similar care to maintain their breathability and gentle feel on delicate skin.

Common mistakes to avoid

Using fabric softener or bleach is a top mistake. Fabric softener coats fibers and reduces absorbency and breathability, while bleach weakens organic cotton over time. Stick to a mild, fragrance-free detergent instead.

Overloading the washing machine is another common error. Cramming too many items prevents proper cleaning and can cause friction that leads to pilling. Wash pajamas in small loads to keep them in better condition.

Step-by-step care routine

Step 1: Read the care label: Always check the tag inside the pajamas first. Most organic cotton baby sleepwear can be machine washed, but some blends or prints may have specific instructions. Skipping the label is the most common cause of accidental shrinkage.
Step 2: Turn pajamas inside out: Before washing, turn the pajamas inside out. This protects the outer fabric from friction and helps prevent pilling and fading of prints. Inside-out washing also keeps zippers and buttons from snagging other clothes.
Step 3: Use cold water and gentle cycle: Set your machine to cold water and the gentle or delicate cycle. Hot water can shrink organic cotton and damage lyocell fibers. Cold water is effective for everyday soil and preserves fabric integrity. If stains are present, pre-treat with a small amount of mild detergent before washing.
Step 4: Choose a mild detergent: Use a fragrance-free, dye-free detergent formulated for sensitive skin. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, and stain removers with harsh chemicals. A capful is usually enough for a small load. Too much detergent leaves residue that makes fabric feel stiff over time.
Step 5: Dry on low heat or air dry: Tumble dry on low heat or hang to dry. High heat can shrink organic cotton and weaken lyocell-spandex blends. Remove pajamas while slightly damp to reduce wrinkles and maintain softness. Air drying is the gentlest option and extends the life of the fabric the most.

Product spotlight

Ice Pop Party Honeysoft™ Lyocell Two-Piece Pajamas: Burt's Bees Baby Ice Pop Party Honeysoft™ Lyocell Two-Piece Pajamas blend organic cotton with TENCEL™ Lyocell and spandex for an even silkier handfeel and cozy breathability. This blend requires the same gentle wash routine as pure organic cotton, but the lyocell fibers add extra softness that stays intact when you follow proper care steps.
Ice Pop Party Honeysoft™ Lyocell Two-Piece Pajamas