Does Avoiding Certain Textures Mean Autism?

PostedNovember 5, 2025

UpdatedNovember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, texture sensitivity in autism is a common trait, and avoiding certain textures can be a sign of the condition. Children with autism may show tactile aversion, where specific fabrics, food textures, or surfaces cause distress. This sensory avoidance is often more intense than typical childhood reactions and is linked to sensory processing differences.

Children with this sensitivity may refuse to wear certain clothes, avoid surfaces, or become upset during activities like brushing their teeth or hair. Recognising these autism traits early can help caregivers provide the right support.

How Texture Sensitivity in Autism Manifests

How autistic individuals may respond to different textures:

Tactile Aversion:

Children with autism may show discomfort with clothing textures or materials. Common examples include refusing to wear certain types of fabric, such as wool or rough clothing, or refusing to eat certain foods based on their texture, like mushy or crunchy foods.

Difficulty with Everyday Activities:

Tactile aversion can make daily activities challenging. A child might resist brushing their hair, teeth, or bathing due to sensitivity to the sensations involved.

Reactions to Environmental Textures:

Sensory avoidance may also be seen when children avoid touching certain surfaces, such as sand, dirt, or certain types of upholstery, due to their unpleasant tactile sensation.

Recognising texture sensitivity in autism can help parents and caregivers make adjustments to improve a child’s comfort and ease. For expert advice and tailored consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for one-on-one support specific to your child’s needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Early Signs & Symptoms of Autism.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.