The Best Steps to Washing your Preemie clothing

If you’ve just welcomed a premature baby into your life—first of all, congratulations! Whether you’re still visiting the NICU or finally snuggling at home, I know firsthand how much love, hope, and, yes, laundry comes with a preemie.

After more than 30 years making preemie clothes here at Preemie Store, I’ve learned a lot about how to care for these tiny outfits—and how to keep your baby’s sensitive skin safe in the process. If you’re wondering how to wash preemie clothing without ruining it— or your sanity — you’re in the right place.

Why It’s Important to Wash with Care

Preemie clothes are smaller, softer, and often made with more delicate fabrics than regular baby clothes. That’s because preemie skin is thinner and more sensitive—making it more prone to irritation or reactions from harsh detergents or rough seams.

Many of us are used to tossing laundry in without a second thought, but preemie clothing deserves a little extra love.

1. Pre-Wash Everything Before Use

Always wash clothing before your baby wears it—yes, even if it’s brand new.

Clothes can pick up dust, chemicals, or packaging residue during the manufacturing and shipping processes. Pre-washing removes all that and ensures your baby is only in clean, soft fabric.

Tips:

• Sort by color (lights, darks, whites)
  
• Turn clothing inside out to protect the fabric
  
• Snip off any stiff tags or rough seams

2. Use a Gentle, Fragrance-Free Detergent

Choose a detergent that’s free of:

• Fragrances
  
• Dyes
  
• Harsh chemicals

Look for detergents labeled hypoallergenic or baby-safe. Many parents love brands like:

• Dreft Stage 1
  
• Seventh Generation Free & Clear
  
• All Free Clear

💡 Skip fabric softeners and dryer sheets. These often contain chemicals that can irritate preemie skin and reduce fabric softness.

3. Wash on a Gentle Cycle with Warm or Cold Water

Hot water isn’t necessary and can damage or shrink delicate baby clothes. Instead:

• Use warm or cold water
  
• Choose the gentle or delicate cycle
  
• Consider a second rinse if your baby has very sensitive skin

4. Handling Baby Stains (Yes, There Will Be Some!)

From spit-up to diaper blowouts, you’ll face your share of stains.

Here’s how to treat them:

• Rinse right away to stop stains from setting
  
• Use a baby-safe stain remover or a simple baking soda paste
  
• Avoid bleach—it’s too harsh and can irritate your baby’s skin

5. Drying: Air Dry or Use Low Heat

Air drying is the gentlest method, but if you're using a dryer, no worries—keep it on a low setting and slow.

• Use low heat or a delicate setting
• Skip dryer sheets (again!)
  
• Use a mesh laundry bag for tiny items like socks and mittens—they vanish quickly!

6. Washing Clothes for the NICU

If your baby is still in the NICU, your hospital may let you bring clothes from home. Be sure to check their specific requirements.

Standard NICU guidelines include:

• Pre-washed clothing in unscented detergent
  
• Clothes washed in hot water and dried thoroughly
  
• Clearly labeled garments to avoid mix-ups

Wearing familiar clothes from home (especially ones that smell like you) can be comforting for your baby during NICU stays.

Final Thoughts from Me to You

Washing preemie clothes isn’t just a chore—it’s part of caring for your baby most lovingly. Every onesie you clean, fold, and prepare is one more way to protect that little miracle you’ve brought into the world. This is one of the tasks that will help you feel "normal" in a very unpredictable situation.

After decades of helping parents like you through the early days of preemie life, I can tell you this: you’re doing a great job. You’ve got this we are always here for you. 💜