Dressing Children for Cold Weather Sustainably on Budget

I make an effort to avoid synthetic fabrics and stick to natural fabrics such as wool and cotton when dressing my children. I do this for their health and for the planet. Because we operate on one income I have to put a lot of effort into being frugal when making purchases. I want my children to love exploring the outdoors in all kinds of safe weather and making sure they are warm and dry is a major part of that.

The reality is that natural fabrics tend to be sturdier and last longer and are better for the planet. They can be mended or tossed in the compost when they reach the end of their usability. But most importantly , wool helps regulate body temperature. In fact, my child chooses to wear her wool long johns year round at bedtime because they keep her warm when needed, and cool when needed.

Sunhat from Simple Folk she dyed herself. Just handed it down to a friend after 4 years of use.

Firstly, go through your children’s clothing seasonally and take inventory before the season approaches because sourcing them second hand requires some forethought and work which is why im winter shopping in August. I like to have appropriate clothing for all kinds of weather. Think sun hats, rain coats, snowsuits etc etc.

In the winter I like for my children to have

1 wool beanie

1 wool balaclava

1 snowsuit,

2 pairs of wool mittens

5 pairs of warm socks,

2-4 warm tights to wear under their clothes

2-3 sets of merino wool long johns they can wear under their clothing or as pajamas.

1 wool coat and or one wool vest

1 long puffer coat

1 pair of winter boots ( tend to buy temperature rated snow boots 1 size larger to accommodate thick socks)

2 scarves

For their rooms, one humidifier, and a hot water bottle to snuggle safely when age appropriate.

Look to my community. I ask my friends if they have any hand me downs to pass on and do the same with the clothing my kids have outgrown. Well made clothing can go through several children and seasons before needing repair/ retired.
I also check my local thrift stores and resell stores and share my list with my more thrifty friends. Truthfully I no longer have the time/energy to dig through thrift stores looking for items, but occasionally they do produce gems.
I reach out directly to a moms online with similar values with older children and offer to bundle purchase items still in good condition.
I check out ebay, and other resale groups on facebook and resale sites like kidizen and poshmark. Vintage items like wool sweaters last lifetimes and can be easily sourced on ebay.
I shop for winter things off season, so in the spring or summer when they are on sale. i like to check european websites because sometimes items are half price and are made from better materials since they tend to higher safety ratings for children’s items.

Brands I look for.

Nui organics

Disana

Siskin by Engel

Kuling

Chasing windmills

mini lila

bog boots

xero shoes

splay kids

little spruce organics

babyshop