Parent Diaries

In the world of fashion, where colors and patterns often steal the spotlight, Miho’s Colourless Blend celebrates the beauty of neutrality. Unlike vibrant hues or earthy tones, our Colourless Blend brings a minimalist appeal rooted in nature and wellness. This Ayurvastra blend relies on the untouched natural shade of fabric combined with Ayurvedic herbs, offering an elegant, subtle design that promotes peace and holistic health. What is the Colourless Blend? Ayurvastra, meaning “life cloth” in Sanskrit, focuses on the therapeutic potential of herbs in textiles. While Miho typically offers kids’ wear dyed with natural pigments, the Colourless Blend takes a different approach. Here, no dye is used. This method preserves the fabric’s original hue, making it perfect for those seeking a minimalist and chemical-free lifestyle. The Process: Pure Fabric Meets Pure Intention Each Colourless Blend piece undergoes a special treatment with Ayurvedic herbs. This process retains the raw, natural shade of bamboo, cotton, or wool fibers, symbolizing simplicity and purity. Unlike conventional dyeing processes, which involve synthetic dyes and chemicals, Ayurvedic dyeing embraces gentle treatments where no artificial substances touch the fabric. The untreated shade aligns with the concept of ‘slow living’ — a movement toward mindful, natural, and less processed lifestyles. The Wellness Benefits of a Colourless Blend Promotes Skin HealthAyurvastra is celebrated for its ability to aid in skin wellness, using herbs that contain natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and hypoallergenic properties. The Colourless Blend, with its unadulterated surface, allows the fabric to breathe freely, reducing the risk of skin irritation — especially valuable for babies and children with sensitive skin. Supports Body Temperature RegulationThe absence of synthetic elements in the Colourless Blend ensures that the fabric adapts well to body temperature, keeping the wearer cool and comfortable. Ayurvedic treatments typically include herbs like sandalwood, vetiver, and neem, known for their cooling effects, which can assist in maintaining balanced body heat. Aids Relaxation and SleepThe Ayurvedic herbs used to infuse Miho’s Colourless Blend garments can assist with relaxation and better sleep quality. Ingredients in Ayurvastra, such as tulsi and ashwagandha, promote a calming effect on the body. Wearing a layer of this blend can feel like slipping into a gentle cocoon, perfect for winding down in or after a long day. Who Can Benefit from the Colourless Blend? The Colourless Blend is ideal for anyone who: Values natural, minimalist fashion without bold colors and prefers sustainable, gentle choices for their wardrobe. Seeks chemical-free fabrics for their children, especially those with sensitive skin. Appreciates wellness and holistic living, aligning with the Ayurvedic philosophy that our clothing should work in harmony with our bodies. Caring for the Colourless Blend Maintaining Ayurvedic fabrics is simple yet unique: Hand Wash or Gentle Cycle – Use cold water and natural soap or soapnut. This gentle method keeps the herbal qualities intact. Dry in Shade – Direct sunlight can weaken the fibers and reduce the effect of the infused herbs. Avoid Harsh Detergents – Natural fibers infused with herbs do best with mild, plant-based detergents and no fabric softeners. A Mindful Choice for a Better Tomorrow Our Colourless Blend offers a way to embrace slow fashion with a clear conscience. Choosing garments that carry the therapeutic properties of Ayurvedic herbs and the subtle elegance of natural fabrics is not just a style statement — it’s a lifestyle choice that brings us back to our roots. By leaving color out of the equation, Miho’s Colourless Blend allows us to appreciate clothing for its quality, comfort, and the quiet wellness it promotes. With Miho’s Colourless Blend, experience the power of purity in simplicity. A fabric that doesn’t just touch your skin but touches your life, too.

As parents, well-wishers or guardians, we strive to provide the best for our children, ensuring they are comfortable, happy, and healthy. One area where we can significantly impact their well-being is the environment they grow up in through the choices we make regarding their clothing. With the rise of natural and organic kids clothes and sustainable ethical fashion practices, it's easier than ever to ensure your child's wardrobe is both eco-friendly, kind on the sensitive skin of the child and stylish. Here’s how you can make your kids' clothing cycle sustainable in five easy steps:   Choose Natural or Organic Kids Clothes Organic kids clothes are made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, bamboo and wool, grown without the use of harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. It is also believed that by avoiding toxic prints, dye and trims on the garment, we can choose the most original and harmless version of clothing that is truly organic. This makes them safer for your child's sensitive skin and better for the environment. Organic clothing brands often adhere to ethical manufacturing processes, correct processing of waste, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for their workers. Bonus: Organic fibers are often more durable, leading to longer-lasting clothing.     Explore Ayurvastra for Your Kids Ayurvastra, a traditional Indian practice, involves infusing natural fabrics with medicinal herbs. These clothes are believed to promote health and well-being, offering therapeutic benefits such as improved skin health, detoxify the body and enhance relaxation. Ayurvastra can be a unique, trustworthy and beneficial addition to your child's wardrobe, combining traditional wisdom with modern sustainability. Bonus: The use of natural dyes and herbs minimizes environmental impact. Both solid waste and liquid waste of the dyeing processes can be returned back to earth. Each garment is unique, offering a personalized touch to your child's wardrobe.     Buy Sustainable Kids Clothes Sustainable kids clothes are designed with a focus on minimizing environmental impact throughout their lifecycle—from production to disposal. Look for brands that use recycled or recyclable materials, practice ethical labor standards, and implement eco-friendly manufacturing and disposal processes. Bonus: Using materials like recycled polyester reduces waste and conserves resources while can also lead to disposal of microplastics into the water bodies. Reduced water usage, low-impact dyes, and renewable energy sources though surely minimize environmental footprints drastically.   Opt for Comfortable Clothes for Babies Comfort is key when dressing your little ones. Choose soft, breathable fabrics that keep your baby comfortable throughout the day above every trend, brand and style. Natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, silk, wool, hemp and linen are ideal as they are gentle on the skin and allow for better air circulation. Bonus Tip: Look for clothes made from cotton or bamboo for extra softness. Ensure the clothes are not too tight and have enough room for movement. Opt for reusable cotton nappies over conventional diapers as much as possible to avoid rashes and irritation. Leave your baby enough time to go commando!   What to Do with Old Clothes As children grow quickly, they may outgrow their clothes before the cloth itself wears out. Here are some sustainable ways to repurpose old clothes for a kinder better world: Donate: Give gently used clothes to local charities, shelters, people or families in need. Recycle: Many organizations, brands and industries accept old clothes for recycling, turning them into new fabrics or products. Repurpose: Get creative by turning old clothes into new items like quilts, stuffed toys, a keepsake, bags, pouches, cleaning rags and much more! Swap: Organize or participate in clothing swaps with other parents to refresh your child's wardrobe without buying new items. Sell: You can also consider selling gently used clothes online or at consignment shops to give them a second life. The concept is called thrifting: if you start searching for #thriftindia on Instagram, you will see 475k posts (as of December 18, 2021), and the number is increasing by the day. This only goes to show the rise of thrift culture in India and the world that is leading to consumers making more sustainable choices.    Conclusion Making your kids' clothing cycle sustainable is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your child's health and comfort. It is what will make the world a better plae to live in for the future generations. By choosing organic or natural kids clothes, exploring Ayurvastra, opting for sustainable brands and practises, and getting enthusiastic to repurpose old clothes by creative means, one can contribute to a greener, healthier society and world.

What is Contact Dermatitis? Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant or allergen. Have you ever used a new type of skin care product or detergent or worn some clothes only to have your skin become discolored and irritated? If so, you may have experienced contact dermatitis. This condition occurs when chemicals you come into contact with cause a reaction. The condition is characterized by red, itchy, and sometimes swollen skin, often accompanied by blisters or dry, scaly patches. There are two main types of contact dermatitis: Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD): It is the most common type of contact dermatitis caused by direct damage to the skin from irritants such as chemicals, dyes, soaps, and detergents. Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD): This causes your body to release inflammatory chemicals that can make your skin feel itchy and irritated triggered by an allergic reaction to substances like certain metals, fragrances, and plants. Fig. how contact dermatitis can look like.   Effects of Contact Dermatitis on Children in India Contact dermatitis is particularly concerning in children due to their sensitive skin and developing immune systems. There is now growing evidence of contact sensitization of the pediatric population, and it begins right from early childhood, including 1-week-old neonates. The consequences of undiagnosed and untreated ACD in children and in their family can be severe. Among children with suspected contact dermatitis referred for patch testing, positive patch test rates have ranged from 14% to 70%. Of these, about 56-93% have been thought of current relevance.  Moreover, atopic eczema may be an important risk factor for the development of ACD in children rather than in adults. In the study by the NACDG, of those with a reactive patch test, children (34.0%) were more likely than adults (11.2%) to have a final diagnosis that included atopic eczema. Several factors contribute to the prevalence and severity of this condition among children: Environmental Factors: India’s diverse climate, ranging from hot and humid to dry and cold, can exacerbate skin issues. Pollutants and allergens in urban areas further aggravate the situation. Hygiene Practices: Inadequate sanitation, child labor in different industries and exposure to harsh soaps and detergents can lead to irritant contact dermatitis. Children in rural areas may be more susceptible due to limited access to gentle skincare products. Cultural Practices: The use of traditional clothing and accessories, which may contain allergens such as nickel or certain dyes, can trigger allergic reactions. Diet and Lifestyle: Nutritional deficiencies and lifestyle factors can weaken the skin’s barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritants and allergens.   The Impact on Children’s Health and Well-being Contact dermatitis can significantly affect a child’s quality of life. The persistent itching and discomfort can lead to: Sleep Disturbances: Constant itching and discomfort can disrupt a child’s sleep, impacting their overall health and cognitive development. Psychological Effects: Visible skin conditions can affect a child’s self-esteem and social interactions, leading to anxiety and depression. Secondary Infections: Scratching can break the skin, leading to secondary bacterial infections which can be serious if not treated promptly.   Protect your child's skin with these simple tips to prevent contact dermatitis: Choose Gentle Fabrics Opt for soft, natural fabrics like cotton and Ayurvastra. Avoid synthetic materials that can irritate the skin. Use Mild Soaps & Detergents Select hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products. Rinse clothes thoroughly to remove detergent residues. Keep Skin Moisturized Apply gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers daily. Look for products with natural ingredients like aloe vera. Avoid Known Allergens Be aware of common triggers like nickel, certain plants, and dyes. Check labels for potential allergens. Maintain Good Hygiene Regular baths with mild, lukewarm water. Pat dry and avoid vigorous rubbing of the skin. Stay Hydrated Ensure your child drinks plenty of water. Hydrated skin is less prone to irritation. Dress Appropriately Use Ayurvastra clothing for its healing properties. Dress your child in weather-appropriate layers. Create a Safe Play Environment Minimize exposure to harsh chemicals and irritants. Keep outdoor play areas free of known allergens. Consult a Dermatologist Seek professional advice for persistent skin issues. Regular check-ups can help manage and prevent flare-ups.   Ayurvastra: A Natural Remedy for Contact Dermatitis Ayurvastra which loosely translates to "Ayurvedic cloth," is a traditional textile practice that combines Ayurvedic principles with the process of fabric making. These garments are infused with medicinal herbs known for their healing properties. Here’s how Ayurvastra can benefit children suffering from contact dermatitis or prevent the chances of the same: Natural and Non-Toxic: Ayurvastra is made using natural fibres like cotton, bamboo, wool, hemp, silk - dyed with herbal extracts, ensuring that no synthetic chemicals come into contact with the skin. This is particularly beneficial for children as their sensitive skin is prone to reactions from synthetic fabrics and dyes. Healing Properties: Herbs used in Ayurvastra, such as neem, indigo, turmeric, and sandalwood, have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing properties. These can help reduce inflammation, prevent infections, and promote overall wellbeing and healing of the skin. Enhanced Comfort: The breathable and soft nature of Ayurvastra garments made from natural fabrics can reduce skin irritation and provide comfort, essential for children who are already experiencing discomfort from dermatitis. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: Ayurvastra supports sustainable practices, which are beneficial for the environment and help in reducing exposure to pollutants and allergens in total for generic prevention.   Implementing Ayurvastra for Dermatitis Relief For parents considering Ayurvastra for their children suffering from skin related issues or extra sensitive skin, here are some practical tips: Clothing Choices: Incorporate Ayurvastra into daily wear, especially for items that are in direct contact with the skin, such as underwear, casual wear, sleepwear, towels and bed linens. Consistency: Regular use of Ayurvastra provides continuous exposure to the healing properties of the herbs, aiding in long-term skin health and wellness. Complementary Care: Combine the use of Ayurvastra with other skin care routines recommended by healthcare professionals, such as using gentle, hypoallergenic, non-toxic or fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers.   Conclusion Contact dermatitis is a common yet challenging condition, particularly for children due to various environmental and lifestyle factors. Embracing traditional practices like Ayurvastra offers a natural, non-toxic approach to managing and alleviating the symptoms of dermatitis by simply implicating in everyday life. By integrating the wisdom of Ayurveda through Ayurvastra with other modern care practices, we can provide children with a holistic and sustainable solution for healthier skin and a better quality of life.

In the textile industry, the choice between bamboo and cotton has become a long-standing and pressing debate and people seek a final answer now. If you are also in a similar confusion, this blog will provide you with helpful insights to arrive at a decision. Read on to know which fabric between cotton and bamboo resigns supremacy. Let’s unravel the nuances of these fabrics based on different and crucial parameters. Bamboo Versus Cotton- The Ultimate Face-Off All-season comfort Bamboo- Those yearning for a luxurious and comfortable feel will love bamboo fabric clothing as it is exceptionally soft and smooth for the skin. It offers immense comfort in all seasons because of its natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Thus, you can wear bamboo apparel anytime. Cotton- Even cotton is well-known for its comfort feel and breathable characteristics for which it is ideal for everyday wear. However, it may not match the moisture-wicking capabilities of bamboo. Henceforth, when put in comparison to bamboo, cotton may not give a very dry and cool feeling in extreme humidity. Antibacterial Properties Bamboo- A plus one point goes to bamboo for its excellent antibacterial and odor-resistant properties making it a perfect option for those utterly conscious of personal hygiene. A bamboo wearer will be able to bid goodbye to the repercussions of constant sweat, like odor and bacteria. Cotton- When weighed on this parameter, cotton may lag behind as it does not offer natural antibacterial advantages. As a result, it may make way for the growth of bacteria and further lead to the retention of unwanted odor over time. This will also require frequent washes as compared to bamboo fabric clothing. Durability Perks Bamboo- The resilience of bamboo is commendable which allows it to withstand regular wear and washing and that too without compromising on its quality. Thus, it is a popular choice among buyers for offering them a durable, sustainable, and long shelf life of their clothes made from bamboo. Cotton- Contrarily, cotton is also a good choice if you are looking for a durable fabric. However, the drawback here could be that the longevity of cotton garments usually gets adversely influenced by factors such as the quality, weaving process, washing frequency, and more. Thus, it may wear out soon. Environmental Impact Bamboo- Coming from a renewable resource, bamboo is well-known for its eco-friendly origin. It further stands as an eco-warrior as its growth requires minimal water and no pesticides, making it a green choice for environmentally conscious people caring for the planet’s health. Cotton- It is also a natural fabric, but it is highly resource-intensive. Its growth demands significant water and extensive pesticides that altogether raise grave environmental concerns. As a result, the cultivation of cotton impacts the health of the environment and other resources adversely. If you want to relish more advantages of bamboo garments including versatile wear, wide styling options, and more, consider shopping with reputed bamboo fabric suppliers for the best purchase.