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The Kids’ Clothes Conundrum

2022-08-24 Mama Minimalist

Have you ever bought an irresistibly on-trend outfit for a child in your life? If so, I’m willing to bet it was worn just a handful of times (or perhaps not at all).

Gendered children’s fashion is a twentieth century invention and — surprise!— it was invented by marketing pros hoping to sell more clothes. The sad truths are that while kids’ fast fashion creates unnecessary clutter for parents, the sheer quantity of it all contributes to our oversized environmental problems.

Today I speak with clothing designer Laurel Thompson about how to avoid purchasing adorable future trash for the children in our lives.

Here’s a preview:

[3:30] The history of children’s clothing: How the post-industrial revolution impacted wardrobe longevity

[8:00] Exactly how the design of kids clothes has devolved to the detriment of mothers everywhere

[17:00] From fabrication to construction: 10 things to look for when shopping for children’s outfits

[22:00] How to talk to the grandparents in your life about responsibly acquiring kids’ clothes

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The Psychology of Spring Cleaning

There are few things more satisfying than completing a proper spring cleaning. Deep cleaning when the weather warms is a biological imperative that's rooted in centuries of tradition because the practice lightens moods and improves health. It also symbolizes renewal as we come out of hibernation and back into the sunshine.

You aren't alone in your seasonal desire to deep clean. On today's show: Opening the windows, deep-cleaning those closets, stripping the beds, and vacuuming those oft-ignored places just in time for the Spring Equinox.

Here's a preview:

[5:00] The evolutionary reasons that may explain why humans have "shaken their houses" for over 3 thousand years

[8:00] Using newspapers to clean your windows, mopping every week, and other cleaning myths

[18:00] Yes, you do need to spring clean your appliances! Here's how

[24:00] Exactly how to deep clean your bedding in 4 steps

[30:00] Love a good spring cleaning and want extra credit? Don't forget about these 5 oft-overlooked areas

Resources mentioned:

Episode #487: Big Cleaning
Episode #257: Spring Cleaning for Home, Head, and Heart
Should You Use Your Oven’s Self-Cleaning Setting? It Depends. (via Wirecutter)
The Ultimate Guide on How to Clean Your Washing Machine (via Good Housekeeping)
How to Wash Pillows Properly, According to a Cleaning Expert (via Good Housekeeping)
Tip jar, and thank you! buymeacoffee.com/sustainableminimalists

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My Story

Hello there, I’m Stephanie. I live a crazy, beautiful life as a full-time wife, blogger + mother to two spirited daughters. I’m on a mission to simplify eco-friendly living so as to greater enjoy life’s sweeter moments.

Want to know more? Read my story.