Choosing the right material is one of the most common questions parents ask. Muslin, bamboo viscose, merino wool or organic cotton – each of these materials has its own unique properties and is suited to different situations. In our blog, we will introduce them one by one to help you choose the material that best suits your child.
What is muslin?
Muslin has become one of the most popular fabrics for baby products in recent years. It is lightweight, breathable and soft to the touch, making it an excellent choice for warm spring and summer days.
Parents appreciate muslin not only for its natural appearance but also because it feels comfortable against delicate skin, allows air to circulate well and becomes even softer with every wash.
The muslin used by Kaarsgaren is made from 100% cotton and meets the requirements of the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification.
How is muslin made?
Muslin is a woven fabric, usually made from 100% cotton. Its characteristic loose weave creates tiny air pockets between the fibres, giving the fabric its lightweight feel, excellent breathability and naturally crinkled appearance.
This natural texture is also why muslin does not need ironing. The soft wrinkles are not a flaw—they are part of the fabric's character.
Why is muslin so popular during summer?
Because of its lightweight construction and breathability, muslin helps create a comfortable sleeping environment during warmer weather. That is why it is widely used for baby blankets, lightweight clothing, swaddles and summer sleeping bags.
We don't believe there is one perfect fabric for every child. Every material has its own strengths, and choosing the right one depends on what you expect from it.
Think about the difference between a T-shirt and a woven shirt.
A T-shirt is made from knitted fabric, so it stretches and easily follows your movements.
A woven shirt keeps its shape but hardly stretches at all.
Muslin behaves much more like a woven shirt. It is light, airy and comfortable, but because it is a woven fabric, it has very little stretch.
Our experience as a manufacturer
When we developed our muslin sleeping bags, we quickly discovered that the same pattern used for stretchy knitted fabrics was not ideal.
Because muslin has very little stretch, we redesigned the leg openings on our muslin sleeping bags with legs to provide children with enough room to move comfortably while sleeping.
This is how we approach every new material. First we learn how the fabric behaves, and only then do we adjust the pattern to make sure the finished product is as comfortable as possible.
Muslin or bamboo?
This is one of the questions parents ask us most often.
Both fabrics are excellent choices for warm weather, but they offer different characteristics.
Muslin is a lightweight woven cotton fabric with a natural texture. It is breathable, keeps its shape well and has the familiar feel of natural cotton.
Bamboo viscose is exceptionally smooth, stretchy and usually feels pleasantly cool when you first touch it.
Although both fabrics are suitable for summer, they create different first impressions. Bamboo viscose often feels cool and silky, while muslin has the warm, natural feel of cotton. That does not make muslin warmer to wear—it simply feels different when you first touch it.
If you enjoy fabrics that feel silky smooth and pleasantly cool to the touch, bamboo viscose may be the better choice for you.
If you prefer the natural feel and texture of cotton, muslin will probably be your favourite.
Neither fabric is universally better than the other. They simply offer different qualities, and the right choice depends on your personal preferences.
Kaarsgaren muslin products
All our muslin products are made in the Czech Republic.
- Muslin blankets are perfect for the stroller, cot, travelling or everyday use.
- Muslin sleeping bags are available in both a classic shape and a version with legs for more active toddlers.
How should you care for muslin?
Always follow the care instructions on the product label. Muslin does not require ironing, and its naturally crinkled appearance is one of the reasons parents love it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is muslin suitable for newborn babies?
Yes. Thanks to its lightweight and breathable nature, muslin is a popular choice for many baby products.
Is your muslin made from 100% cotton?
Yes. The muslin used in Kaarsgaren products is made from 100% cotton and meets the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification requirements.
Does muslin need ironing?
No. Its naturally crinkled texture is one of its defining characteristics.
Is muslin suitable for hot summer weather?
Yes. Its lightweight weave and breathability make it an excellent choice for warm spring and summer days.
Which is better: muslin or bamboo?
There is no universal answer. Bamboo viscose is stretchier, smoother and feels cooler when first touched. Muslin offers the natural feel of woven cotton, excellent breathability and a timeless appearance. The best choice depends on what you personally prefer.
Conclusion
Muslin is much more than a passing trend. Its breathability, softness and easy care have made it one of the favourite fabrics for baby products around the world. If you are looking for a lightweight summer blanket or sleeping bag, muslin is an excellent choice. If you prefer a fabric that feels smoother, stretchier and cooler to the touch, bamboo viscose may suit you better. Neither fabric is better than the other—they simply offer different benefits, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your family's needs.
