Finding sensory-friendly clothing that meets your child’s needs without stretching your budget can be a challenge, but there are many brands and shopping strategies that make it easier. Sensory-friendly clothes designed for children with autism often include features like tagless labels, seamless construction, soft fabrics, and compression options that support comfort and calm. Here’s how to find these specialized options affordably.
Look for Sales and Clearance Sections
Many brands that offer sensory-friendly clothing, such as Cloud Nine Clothing, Primary, and Cat & Jack™, have regular sales or seasonal clearance events. Sign up for newsletters to stay informed about upcoming discounts, and check the clearance sections online and in-store for reduced prices on sensory-friendly items.
Tip: Sign up for brand newsletters to receive early access to sales and exclusive discounts.
Choose Multi-Packs for Essentials
Multi-packs of items like tagless t-shirts, seamless socks, or leggings are often sold at a discount, allowing you to get more value for your money. Brands like Hanes and Old Navy offer multi-packs that can help you stock up on sensory-friendly basics while keeping costs down.
*Brands to check:* Hanes, Old Navy, Walmart
Shop Affordable Sensory-Friendly Brands
Several affordable brands specialize in sensory-friendly options. For example, [Cloud Nine Clothing](https://www.cloudnineclothing.ca/) offers high-quality, sensory-friendly clothing designed specifically for children with autism, featuring tagless labels, seamless designs, and built-in fidgets—all at reasonable prices. Other brands like Cat & Jack™ at Target, Primary, and Walmart’s George line also offer sensory-friendly basics at budget-friendly prices.
Brands to check: Cloud Nine Clothing, Target’s Cat & Jack™, Primary, Walmart’s George
Consider Adaptive Clothing Lines
Some brands offer adaptive clothing lines with sensory-friendly features like soft, tagless, and seamless construction, even if they aren’t specifically labeled “sensory-friendly.” Adaptive clothing from brands like Cat & Jack™ at Target or Old Navy often provides these features at affordable prices, giving you more options.
Brands to check: Cat & Jack™ Adaptive, Old Navy, Kohl’s Adaptive Collection
Buy Secondhand from Thrift Stores and Resale Platforms
Gently used sensory-friendly clothing can often be found in great condition at secondhand stores or online platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace. Thrift stores and resale platforms allow you to find quality sensory-friendly items at a fraction of the original price.
Platforms to check: eBay, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, local thrift stores
Look for DIY Sensory Solutions
For a budget-friendly DIY option, you can adapt regular clothing to make it sensory-friendly. Consider removing tags yourself, adding soft inner layers, or stitching in small weights or fidgets if your child needs compression or grounding. Additionally, layering softer basics underneath regular clothing can add comfort without requiring an entire sensory-specific wardrobe.
Tip: Try using fabric glue to secure any rough seams or adding an inner layer of soft fabric to cover uncomfortable textures.
Use Cashback and Discount Apps
Apps like Rakuten, Honey, and RetailMeNot offer cashback rewards and discount codes that can help reduce the cost of sensory-friendly clothing. Be sure to check these apps or install browser extensions that automatically apply any available discounts when shopping online.
Apps to try: Rakuten, Honey, RetailMeNot
Check for Store Brands Offering Sensory Features
Some major retailers, like Walmart and Target, offer store-brand clothing with sensory-friendly features, such as tag-free labels and soft fabrics. While not always labeled as sensory-specific, these options can provide the comfort and durability you’re looking for at a more affordable price.
Brands to check: Walmart’s George, Hanes, Old Navy
Summary of Affordable Sensory-Friendly Clothing Brands
- Cloud Nine Clothing: Specializes in sensory-friendly options with tagless labels, built-in fidgets, and seamless designs.
- Target’s Cat & Jack™: Includes sensory-friendly and adaptive pieces, featuring tagless labels and flat seams.
- Primary: Offers soft, tagless, and minimalistic basics without logos or tags.
- Hanes: Provides affordable, tagless t-shirts and basics with soft, durable fabrics.
- Old Navy: Known for tag-free clothing basics and frequent discounts.
- Walmart’s George Basics: Includes tagless essentials and soft fabrics.
Final Thoughts
Building an affordable, sensory-friendly wardrobe for your child is achievable with a little creativity and resourcefulness. By exploring budget-friendly brands, shopping sales, and using cashback apps, you can find clothing that meets your child’s sensory needs without exceeding your budget. For parents seeking both affordability and quality, brands like [Cloud Nine Clothing](https://www.cloudnineclothing.ca/) offer well-designed sensory-friendly clothing that supports your child’s comfort and confidence at accessible prices.