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MIL 'snubbing' our DD's clothing choices?!

52 replies

Sunrays22 · 05/09/2025 11:01

This may be a non-issue for some but my MIL buys and keeps a stash of clothes she's chosen and bought for my 4 year old DD at her house. In theory this is all lovely and completely appreciate MIL can spend her money however she chooses, however she lives over 2 hours away and my DD doesn't regularly stay with her (probably 4 times a year max) to the point I wonder if she's grown out of the clothes/toys by her next visit. I don't know why she doesn't send her home with them so she can actually get some wear out of them rather than for an occasional weekend?

We send DD in clothes and with a suitcase packed and she comes back having not worn what we've sent. MIL doesn't actually tell us what she needs/wants us to pack for DD so I've no idea what clothes she has there as if we had some idea it would save me the hassle of packing! The only way we have found out about the clothes is by photos sent to us of DD in new clothes which are then kept at MIL's house. I mainly feel like it's saying the clothes we send DD in aren't 'good enough' and it might just be me but I find it to be very controlling behaviour.

MIL also does this with a stash of toys and it's upset me as now my DD has got into the habit of asking if she can bring things back home because she's used to MIL keeping things there...

Is it just me or would others find this annoying too?!

OP posts:
Yeoldlondoncheese · 05/09/2025 11:06

I thought you were going to say she openly disparages your choice or buys new clothes and sends them to your house. If it’s at her house and she’s not demanding for her to wear the clothes all the time it’s a non issue. Stop sending her over if it’s annoying you so much.

Brightlittlecanary · 05/09/2025 11:05

I’m not really seeing the issue here to be honest , she’s caring for your child, giving you a break, treating her to toys and clothes she can use when there. You can just ask what would you like me to send. If money is tight and you want the clothes just ask. I don’t see it as controlling or a slight against you or about you, I’m sorry you feel it is about you , reading cold it is just grandparents caring for their grandkids.

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