Keeping baby clothes soft isn’t rocket science, but there are a few tricks most people skip.

First off, ditch the harsh detergents. Baby skin is sensitive—like, ridiculously sensitive—and strong chemicals or heavy fragrances can cause rashes or irritation. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free detergents. It might not smell “fresh” in that punchy way we adults love, but your baby’s skin will thank you.

Next, don’t overload the washer. Too many clothes crammed in? They don’t rinse properly, and suddenly everything comes out stiff or scratchy. Give fabrics some space to move, let them tumble, and they’ll stay soft naturally. Bonus: it helps prevent accidental shrinking, especially with cotton and bamboo pieces.

Air-drying is another lifesaver. Sunlight keeps clothes fresh and naturally sanitized. Just be careful not to leave them baking too long—cotton especially can stiffen or fade. If you need faster drying, use a low-heat setting in the dryer, or toss in a dryer ball to keep fabrics fluffy.

Here’s a low-key trick: adding a splash of vinegar during the rinse cycle or a baby-safe fabric softener occasionally can work wonders. Seriously, it softens without leaving a heavy residue, and clothes stay cozy longer. That’s key because soft clothes = happy babies = fewer tantrums during outfit changes.

The funny part? The softer the clothes stay, the more you’ll reach for them. Soft bamboo pajamas for bedtime, buttery cotton onesies for playtime—they feel good on tiny skin, and honestly, wrapping your little one in something cloud-level soft is one of those simple parenting joys you never forget. Treat the basics right, and the rest falls into place naturally.