(We're not) materialistic. See what we make our clothes from and why materials are so important

(We're not) materialistic. See what we make our clothes from and why materials are so important

Just as a child's successful play starts with a good idea, ethically created clothing starts with the right material. Today, we'll tell you why we choose specific materials for clothing that align with our values and respect the planet.

Great material for... slow children's fashion. What will you find in our store?

The artificial materials used in the clothing manufacturing process, such as polyester, polyamide or acrylic, when they end up in a landfill, seep into the soil and can contaminate water. But that's not all. Did you know that washing synthetic clothing is responsible for 35% of all microplastic released into the environment? A single wash of polyester clothing can release 700,000 microplastic fibres, and these can end up in the human and animal food chain [SOURCE].

We believe that slow starts at the bottom. That is, right from the stage of choosing the material for the clothes your child wears every day. That is why when you buy products from KID STORY, you can be sure that our materials are 99% derived from plant, animal or mineral sources.

What kind of materials are these?

Organic cotton

Organic cotton is a fibre that is produced in such a way that it does not disturb the ecological balance. Unlike conventional cotton, in this case no pesticides, insecticides or other chemicals are used in the fields. As a result, soils retain their fertility and local water bodies are not polluted. Organic cotton production also creates a safer working environment for people.

Organic cotton cultivation makes extensive use of rainwater, with up to 80% of irrigation estimated to rely on rainwater. This significantly reduces water consumption in the textile industry.

By choosing organic cotton clothing at KID STORY, you are therefore indirectly contributing to reducing water consumption, to protecting local ecosystems and to improving working conditions. And by the way, you and your little one benefit, because clothes made from this material are characterised by their durability, so they will last for many years.

Merino wool

Merino wool is a 100% biodegradable material. It is sourced from the fleece of a unique breed of merino sheep, which mainly inhabit the mountainous areas of New Zealand and Australia. Australian merino wool, known for its superior quality, makes up 75% of Australia's sheep population.

The main benefits of using merino wool are:

• Thermoregulatory abilities: Merino wool fibres collect air molecules for effective protection against extreme weather conditions. They protect against overheating on hot days and insulate against low temperatures in autumn and winter.
• Breathability: Merino wool absorbs the moisture produced by the body and wicks it quickly to the outside. As a result, merino wool garments stay dry and do not stick to the body, even during exercise.
• Antibacterial: It has natural antibacterial properties, making it resistant to unpleasant odours from both exercise and the environment. It does not require frequent washing compared to synthetic and cotton materials.
• Softness: Merino wool is very soft and pleasant to the touch thanks to the small diameter of its fibres. It provides comfort when worn and minimises skin irritation.
• Lightweight: Merino wool clothing is lightweight, which makes it ideal for long journeys. It provides thermal comfort with minimal weight, which is especially important when walking, running or cycling or roller skating. And we know very well that kids love such activities :)
• Ease of care: Garments made from merino wool do not require frequent washing, but benefit from regular airing. Merino wool dries faster than cotton and does not require ironing.
• Environmentally friendly: Merino wool is a natural material and biodegrades in the environment after use. The higher the proportion of merino wool in a product, the more biodegradable it is. By choosing merino wool garments, we can actively contribute to environmental protection.

Linen

Linen is a natural fibre of plant origin. Products made from 100% linen are eco-friendly and biodegradable - after all, they are made from small, delicate flowers. The softness of this fabric, combined with the fact that it is non-irritating and non-allergenic, makes it especially recommended for young children and allergy sufferers, whose delicate skin appreciates its anti-allergenic properties. It supports the treatment of skin diseases and is ideal for people with AD.

The natural linen fabric, containing no synthetic admixtures, exhibits bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties. It does not accumulate harmful substances from the environment and counteracts the growth of fungi, bacteria and dust mites. It does not electrify or attract dust. Cools in summer and warms in winter.

Exemplary quality certification

Although in everyday life we don't quite believe in the point of school grades certificate with honours, official endorsements and quality marks are important to us in business.

Here are the material certifications we can boast of.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100

It is an internationally recognised testing and certification system that certifies the quality of textile and textile products that are intended to come into direct contact with the human skin.

The certification process checks the product in question for the presence of 100 hazardous chemicals that may endanger the health of consumers. OEKO-TEX-certified material is safe for children, allergy sufferers and sensitive skin.

Therefore, when you buy from KID STORY, you can be sure that the printed fabrics are safe for all children, at all ages.

GOTS: Global Organic Textile Standard

The GOTS certification confirms that no harmful bleaches, dyes or chemicals were used in the production process of the material.

In addition, products labelled as such must be produced in accordance with environmental policies and meet social criteria based on key International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards.

WOOLMARK

An international trade mark awarded to woollen fabrics, knitted fabrics, knitted yarns and garments. Woolmark certification is used to recognise products made from pure and living wool.

The non-wool content of visible fibres must not exceed 5% and, in addition, products are tested for colour fastness. The quality of Woolmark products is carefully checked.

MULESING FREE CERTYFIKATE

Mulesing is a brutal method of shaving sheep to prevent the wool from spreading and insects from nesting in it. The procedure is carried out without anaesthesia, leading to suffering for the animals. The whole process can be avoided!

The wool we use at KID STORY is labelled MULESING FREE. This means that it is sourced without cruelty to animals. With these, you can be sure that the materials are natural and sourced in a way that is compatible with nature. All fabrics that are not chemically treated are more durable, safer, breathable and, above all, comfortable and good for the planet.

EUROPEAN FLAX®

The premium linen we use in the production of the garments mainly from the summer collection is EUROPEAN FLAX® certified.

This proves that the product is made from natural, sustainable fibres that are GMO-free and grown without irrigation. Producers who are subject to this certification are obliged to give guarantees of transparency and safety at every stage of production.

Solid evidence of durability

Protruding threads, twisting seams? Not with us. We know very well that careful workmanship and attention to detail are important to you.

We choose durable materials and pay attention to the smallest details when creating the collection. This gives you the assurance of many years of use. Even in the meadow, on the field or in the playground.

Close to you and your child. Close to the place of manufacture

At KID STORY, we also make sure that we are close to you and your child. Literally and figuratively.

All our clothes are manufactured in the EU, so the supply chain is kept to a minimum. This ensures that our business does not contribute to increased CO2 emissions from transport. In addition, we stand in full compliance with EU regulations on ethical manufacturing work.

We hope we have convinced you that it really is worth betting on good materials. Join the change together with KID STORY and together let's write a new story about responsible children's fashion.