The Reasons for Snug-Fitting Sleepwear

At KicKee, we know that as parents, your child's safety and comfort are your top priorities. That's why we design our sleepwear to meet the highest safety standards without compromising on coziness.

Why Snug-Fitting Pajamas?

We get it! Sometimes we all want those loose PJs and our little ones are no different. So, you might wonder why at KicKee we only sell snug-fitting pajamas. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has guidelines to protect children from fire hazards. Sleepwear must either be flame-resistant or snug-fitting. This regulation applies to any garment that could potentially be worn for sleeping activities, including "loungewear." We choose the snug-fitting route to avoid using flame-retardant chemicals, which have been linked to serious health concerns, especially for young children. Although we would love to create a flowy nightgown, or a matching button down PJ set, we feel that the safety of our little ones comes first, and, it's the law.

The Benefits of Snug Fit

Snug-fitting pajamas are designed to fit closely to your child's body, reducing the risk of catching fire by minimizing the amount of oxygen between the fabric and skin. This design not only keeps your little one safer but also eliminates the need for chemical treatments. The CPSC has specific guidelines for measurements at the chest, waist, seat, upper arm, thigh, wrist, and ankle to ensure a properly snug fit. Additionally, snug-fitting sleepwear should not have loose fabric, trims, or ornaments that extend beyond 6 millimeters (1/4 inch) from the garment's surface—this is why we created our Muffin Ruffle, designed to stay within these safety standards while keeping our signature adorable style!

What about under 9 months?

You may have noticed that there is no snug fitting requirement for babies under 9 months old. This is because our little ones who are not yet mobile are much safer from wandering too close to the fireplace, stove or other ignition source. While there are many safety regulations in place for all sizes of apparel for babies and children, the snug fitting requirement starts at 9 months.

KicKee's Commitment to Safety Without Harmful Chemicals

At KicKee, we choose to comply with CPSC regulations by designing snug-fitting sleepwear. This approach allows us to avoid the use of flame-retardant chemicals, which have been associated with numerous health risks. Some studies have linked exposure to these chemicals to developmental issues, hormone disruption, and even increased risks of certain cancers. Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies are still developing, and they tend to put their hands (and anything they touch) in their mouths as we know! Studies have found that flame-retardant chemicals can accumulate in household dust and be ingested or inhaled over time, leading to prolonged exposure.

A 2017 study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that children with higher exposure to flame retardants had lower IQ scores and increased hyperactivity. Another study from the American Academy of Pediatrics reported that certain flame retardants are associated with thyroid hormone disruption, which can affect brain development in young children. Given these risks, we firmly believe in eliminating unnecessary chemical exposure in children's clothing.

Young boy laying on a bed smiling wearing cozy pajamas

How Can I Tell if My Sleepwear Has Flame Retardant?

Sleepwear must bear the appropriate labels to allow you to make the best decision as a parent. If the garment is snug fitting, it should have a large yellow label indicating that it should be worn snuggly. If it is not labeled, it is either an approved synthetic like polyester, treated with flame retardant, or simply out of compliance. Unfortunately, you will find many out of compliance garments for sale but the CPSC eventually catches it. If you feel you should report an out of compliance item, you can do so here: https://www.saferproducts.gov/IncidentReporting

Ensuring Compliance and Transparency

We are committed to transparency and adhere to all labeling requirements set forth by the CPSC. Our snug-fitting sleepwear bears the appropriate labels, informing consumers that the garment is not flame-resistant and should fit snugly for safety. This ensures that parents are well-informed about the products they choose for their children.

For more detailed information on the CPSC's snug-fitting guidelines, you can refer to the official regulations here: 16 CFR Part 1615

While we are not CPSC experts, we are very careful to follow the laws and regulations, especially as they relate to our youngest customers. If you have questions about compliance by our brand or anyone else's, please reach out! We will do our best to get you the information you need to make the best decision.

At KicKee, we're here to support you in keeping your little ones safe, comfortable, and ready for sweet dreams. By choosing snug-fitting sleepwear, you're making a choice that prioritizes health, safety, and a good night's rest—all without unnecessary chemicals. Thank you for trusting us to be part of your child's bedtime routine!