Why sensory-sensitive children don't want to wear clothes

Sensory sensitivity in children often shows itself through clothing refusal. Many sensory sensitive children refuse to wear socks, underwear, trousers, or T-shirts because fabrics feel itchy, seams feel painful, or clothing labels cause constant irritation on the skin. This clothing sensitivity is common in children with sensory processing disorder (SPD), autism, ADHD, or highly sensitive traits, but it also occurs in children without a diagnosis.

Sensory sensitivity in children often shows itself through clothing refusal. Many sensory sensitive children refuse to wear socks, underwear, trousers, or T-shirts because fabrics feel itchy, seams feel painful, or clothing labels cause constant irritation on the skin. This clothing sensitivity is common in children with sensory processing disorder (SPD), autism, ADHD, or highly sensitive traits, but it also occurs in children without a diagnosis.

For these children, clothing is not just “uncomfortable” — their nervous system processes touch differently. As a result, everyday clothes can trigger stress, overload, or complete refusal. It’s important to understand that a child who refuses to wear clothes is not being difficult or disobedient, but responding to sensory input in a way that feels overwhelming to their body.

Here are a few tips for parents of sensory sensitive children who don't want to wear clothes:

1. Consider the child's individual needs.

Start by observing your child’s individual needs. Some children react strongly to certain fabrics, seams, or labels. Soft materials and smooth finishes often make a big difference.

2. Gradually introduce new items of clothing.

If your child is not used to wearing certain types of clothing, introduce them slowly and in small doses.

3. Use positive reinforcement.

Reward your child for wearing clothes, and make it a positive experience.

4. Be patient and understanding.

Children with sensory sensitivity may need more time and patience than other children when it comes to getting dressed.

5. Seek professional help.

If your child's reluctance to wear clothes is causing significant distress or is impacting their daily life, it's important to seek the help of a professional. This could be a pediatrician, occupational therapist or psychologist.

Ultimately, the key to helping a child with sensory sensitivity feel more comfortable wearing clothes is to understand their unique needs and to work with them in a supportive and understanding way.

Sensory friendly clothing as solution

Look out for sensory-friendly clothing like the soothing collection of Blusss. Blusss items are specially designed for sensory sensitive children like my highly-sensitive son Lex. When kids are more comfortable in their clothes it will have a great effect on many other aspects of the daily routine.

All Blusss garments are ultra-soft and have no itchy seams, annoying labels or irritating tags on the inside. Blusss remains super soft: wash after wash after wash! Ideal for kids with high sensitivity, autism or a sensitive skin.

"Blusss is a solution for 95% of all sensitive children, teenagers and adults. "

More about Blusss

Blusss is unique because of its combination of Fashion and Well-being. Blusss develops the products in co-operation with experts and tests all items with sensory sensitive children and adults. Blusss arose from the experience of An and her search for sensory-friendly clothes for her highly sensitive son Lex.

Many children love the Blusss products and they are also loved by highly sensitive children, children with autism, children with a sensitive skin or children in wheelchairs. Blusss is called a lifesaver by many parents.

If getting dressed feels like a daily battle, you’re not alone—and your child isn’t doing this on purpose.

Join the Blusss family and receive 10% off your first order, while giving your child the comfort they deserve.