The Shocking Truth About Kids’ Sleepwear—and How to Choose Safe Pyjamas Instead

As a mom of two boys with eczema and sensory sensitivities, I’ve learned that what your child wears to sleep matters just as much as what they eat or put on their skin. I used to buy pajamas based on prints or price without giving much thought to anything else. Then after some time I graduated to trying to buy 100% cotton pajamas. But after watching my eldest cry and scratch his chest raw—I knew that even the pajamas I had considered safe warranted a heck of a lot more scrutinity.

This guide breaks down what’s actually in conventional kids’ pajamas, how it affects your child’s health, and what to look for instead—so you can shop smarter, not more.

What Makes Conventional Sleepwear Unsafe?

Most children’s pajamas sold in the U.S. fall into one of two categories:

1. Treated with chemical flame retardants
2. Made from synthetic fibres (like polyester) that are inherently flame resistant BUT not melt-resistant.

Here’s what’s wrong with both:

🔥 Flame Retardants:

Many brands treat cotton pajamas with flame retardants like TDCPP, TCEP, or PBDEs—chemicals linked to hormone disruption, developmental delays, and even cancer. These substances are banned in the EU but still legal in the U.S., even for baby sleepwear.

🧪 Synthetic Fibres:

Polyester is often labelled 'flame resistant,' but it’s petroleum-based, traps heat and moisture, and can be really uncomfortable for kids with eczema or sensitive skin. It also sheds microplastics and off-gasses VOCs as it breaks down over time. Worst of all, if it’s exposed to high heat, it can melt onto the skin—just like any plastic would.

Why Safe Sleepwear Matters for Sensitive Skin

Your child’s skin absorbs more than yours. According to studies, up to 50% of what touches children’s skin can penetrate it, especially when warm or damp (like at night under blankets).

If your child has:

Eczema or itchy skin
Allergies or asthma
Sensory sensitivities
Night sweats or overheating

...then conventional pyjamas can make things worse, not better.

What to Look for in Safe, Non-Toxic Pajamas

Here’s how to shop for safe sleepwear that won’t compromise on comfort or safety:

✅ Choose GOTS-certified organic cotton

This means the fabric is free from pesticides, formaldehyde, heavy metals, and azo dyes. It’s breathable, gentle, and safe for sensitive skin.

✅ Skip synthetic blends

Avoid anything labelled as “flame resistant,” “wrinkle-free,” or “performance.” These are code words for chemical treatments.

✅ Look for flat seams and tagless designs

These reduce friction and itching—especially important for neurodivergent kids or those with sensory issues.

✅ Check for third-party certifications

Labels like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 confirm that every part of the product (including threads, labels, and prints) has been tested for over 100 harmful substances.

What About U.S. Flammability Regulations?

Good question. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that sleepwear for children aged 9 months to 14 years be either flame resistant or snug-fitting to prevent fire hazards.

That’s why all our Treehouse pajamas:

Are snug-fitting but stretchy
Made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton
Pass all U.S. flammability standards—without a single drop of chemical flame retardant

We design for your peace of mind and your child’s comfort.

Why I Created Treehouse Sleepwear

I didn’t set out to start a clothing brand. I just wanted to stop guessing. To stop putting my kids in things that made them itchy, sweaty, and uncomfortable—and start giving them clothes that felt like second skin.

So I spent years researching fabrics, testing samples, and working with dermatologists and real parents to create better basics. Pyjamas that breathe. That soothe. That don’t hide scary chemicals in soft-looking packaging.

Today, our sleepwear is trusted by thousands of parents. And we’re just getting started.

Ready to Make the Switch?

We’re proud to offer a growing collection of eczema- and sensory-friendly pyjamas made with nothing but the good stuff. No flame retardants. No synthetic blends. No shortcuts.

👕 Explore our sleepwear collection →

👕 Explore our baby sleepwear collection →

💌 Want help figuring out what to choose? Email me directly—I read every message.