Model TH-41 from Hubei Tianhe is a three-piece set consisting of a cotton interlock T-shirt, cotton poplin shorts and hat. Available in sizes 2 to 6Y, the set is priced at $4.15.

Suppliers of children's clothing sets in China are emphasizing comfort and safety on their latest products.

Cotton is being blended with polyester and velour to produce a smooth, soft and even shiny fabric. Hypoallergenic, gentle and azo-free versions are the trend.

In addition, many makers are replacing beads and buttons with hook-and-loop tape. This is because the former may come off, presenting a choking hazard. At companies that continue to use buttons, these items and zipper pullers are subjected to resistance tests to make sure they would not detach easily.

Materials are largely sourced from Shanghai and the provinces of Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Shandong and Hubei. Standard inspections on incoming materials check appearance, weight and possible defects. Shrinkage procedures are also carried out in-house.

Further, suppliers send samples to SGS and Intertek for tests on metal content, azo, colorfastness, formaldehyde and pH value.

China-made sets for children 2 years old and above consist of long- or short-sleeved tops paired with pants or skirts. Popular models also come with vests. Hoods or hats are usually added for babies and toddlers.

Among makers interviewed, Treasure Island Enterprises Co. prefers microfiber fabric for its gentleness, breathability and moisture absorbency. The company's long-sleeved shirt and pants sets are priced between $3 and $15.

Wuxi Qian Manufacture & Trade Co. Ltd varies its fabric type according to the season. Polar fleece, velour and terry are used for fall and winter collections. Spring and summer sets come in jersey and poplin. The company uses cotton blended with Lycra, polyester and velour for a soft shiny effect.

Fleece-trimmed children's clothing from Wuxi Qian also undergoes a flame-retardant treatment to comply with international flammability standards.

One new release is a baby set with reflective straps on the hood and in the openings of the sleeves and legs.

ISO 14001:2004-certified Nanjing Ohoi Garment Co. Ltd uses lightweight 50 to 60s jersey. Zippers are sourced from YKK to ensure quality.

To make sure that beads and other embellishments do not unfasten easily, these undergo a pull test at an applied strength of 15 pounds within 10 seconds.

Products from Nanjing Ohoi comply with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100.

Hubei Tianhe Union International Trading Co. Ltd incorporates snaps at the neck and shoulders so that the neckline can open widely for increased comfort after the child is dressed.

The exposed snaps and other metal closures are covered by flaps to prevent them from scratching the baby's skin. Embroidered patterns are backed with lining for comfort.

Sets from the company are also Oeko-Tex-compliant.

Fabric weight and packaging are the major factors affecting prices at Suzhou Tiger Import and Export Co. Ltd. Midrange sets are between $3 and $6. High-end models are $7 to $10.

Three-piece baby sets at Shandong Haiyue Import & Export Co. Ltd consist of a 160gsm cotton shirt, cotton interlock pants and cap.

Besides heeding market concerns over safety and comfort, China suppliers are implementing environment-friendly measures by using "green" packaging. While some companies continue to utilize bags and boxes made of PVC or cardboard, others are opting for biodegradable PEVA or even bamboo baskets.