Clothing for childminders who spend the day on the floor
Short answer: A childminder sits on the floor, gets up, carries and bends many times a day, both indoors and outdoors. Clothing with good freedom of movement, support and soft materials makes a long day easier to manage.
A day close to the floor
Childminding work happens largely at knee height. You sit on the floor, crouch or kneel, stand up, lift and carry and then bend down again. There are also walks and time outside in all kinds of weather. That adds up to a day with many repeated movements in the hips, knees and back. Clothing has to keep up in every position without pinching, slipping down or turning clammy as the hours go by.
Freedom of movement around hips and thighs
Trousers that pull across the thighs, or underwear that rolls up when you crouch, quickly become irritating. Soft, stretchy materials allow free movement. Many people wear thin shorts under dresses and skirts or as a light layer under loose trousers. Bamboo shorts for women are soft and follow the body, and they are also nice to relax in once the working day is over.
Support for lifting and carrying
When you lift and carry many times a day, a bra with good support and no underwire is often the most comfortable choice. Underwire can press when you lean forward or sit hunched on the floor. A bamboo sports bra stays in place without underwire and has wide straps that spread the weight evenly. Choose a model you can wear all day long without noticing it.
Underwear that stays put
Underwear that creeps or digs in when you crouch is one of the most irritating things on a busy day. Choose underwear with soft elastic, flat seams and a cut that covers well when you bend over. Browse bamboo underwear for women for models in different cuts, so you can find what suits your body and the way you move during the day.
Indoors and outdoors on the same day
A childminder often goes for walks and is outside several times a day. Outerwear and rainwear should be easy to put on and take off, and the inner layer has to handle the switch from a warm room to cold air. A thin layer that absorbs moisture from the skin makes it more pleasant to go outside after a busy spell indoors. Keep spare socks and a spare top handy in case you get wet.
Washing and everyday care
Clothing worn on the floor gets dirty quickly and needs washing often. Wash bras and underwear at 30 to 40 degrees on a gentle cycle, ideally in a laundry bag. Shorts and tops can go in at 40 degrees. Avoid fabric softener, so the fabric keeps its ability to absorb moisture, and let the clothes air dry where possible, so the elastic lasts longer. If your back or knees ache after work, talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Which bra is best when you lift a lot
A soft model without underwire and with wide straps that stays in place and does not press when you lean forward.
Why wear shorts under a dress
They give freedom when sitting on the floor or crouching, and prevent the thighs from rubbing.
How do you dress for both indoors and outdoors
With a thin inner layer that absorbs moisture and outerwear that is easy to put on and take off.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
