The Importance of Sensory-Friendly Clothing for Children & Adults

Sensory-friendly clothing is designed to accommodate individuals who experience sensory processing difficulties. Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a condition where sensory information from the environment is interpreted differently by the brain. This can affect an individual's ability to process and respond to certain stimuli, including clothing. Many people with SPD, both children and adults alike, struggle with traditional clothing due to its tightness, scratchiness, and other uncomfortable features. That’s where sensory-friendly clothing comes in - specially designed to cater to the unique needs of individuals with SPD.

In this blog post, we’ll look at what makes clothing sensory-friendly, its benefits to individuals with SPD, and how providers of specialized clothing can ensure that clothing items are catered to their customers' needs.

1: Specialised Material

Sensory-friendly clothing is typically constructed from lightweight, breathable materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, or jersey knit. These materials tend to be softer and less irritating to the skin than traditional fabrics. They are also stretchier, which ensures the clothing won’t feel too tight or restrictive. Careful attention is also paid to minimize the number of seams and tags, as it is common for individuals with SPD to find these bothersome.

2: Wide Range of Movement

Sensory-friendly clothing often features extra room for movement. For example, pants may have a wider cut around the hips and legs, and shirts might be designed with an extended back so that they don’t ride up and cause irritation. This way, individuals with SPD can move freely without feeling constricted and uncomfortable.

3: Sensory Features

Sensory-friendly clothing may also feature additional sensory features such as deep pressure, which provides a calming effect. Compression shirts or vests, weighted blankets, and even textured clothing are a few types of sensory-friendly clothing that help children with SPD feel more comfortable by catering to their sensory needs.

4: Variety of Styles and Colors

Sensory-friendly clothing is available in a wide range of styles and colors, just like regular clothing. There are a variety of options such as leggings, shorts, button-up shirts, dresses, and other clothing items. With this variety, people with SPD can express their personalities like any other person, while also feeling comfortable in what they’re wearing.

5: Inclusive Sizing

Another important aspect of sensory-friendly clothing is that it caters to the needs of individuals of all shapes, sizes, and ages. Sensory-friendly clothing retailers offer inclusive sizing, which means that such clothing is available to individuals whose body types and measurements can be challenging to accommodate in off-the-rack clothes. Everyone has the right to feel comfortable and confident in their clothing, regardless of their size.

Sensory-friendly clothing has become an essential part of everyday life for individuals with SPD, simplifying things for parents and caregivers, and providing comfort and security for the individuals themselves. It is not just about being sensitive to unique clothing needs, it is also about giving people with SPD a chance to express their personality and giving them the freedom of choice in an area crucial to their well-being. We hope you found this informative and helpful in understanding the importance of sensory-friendly clothing, and how it can make a huge difference to people's lives.

Here at The Shapes United we understand the Importance of sensory-friendly clothing. Take a look at our sensory collection today!