Which Clothes Labels Include Hazardous Materials?

A new study by the Colorado Public Interest Research Group, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and Fashion FWD found that many clothing companies, including sports bras and athletic wear brands like Zaful, AliExpress, and Shein, have high levels of phthalates, a chemical compound used to make plastic more flexible. The report praises Levi Strauss and Co., Victoria’s Secret, Keen Footwear, and Deckers Brands for eliminating PFAS from their products.

An increasing number of fast fashion brands, such as Lululemon, Old Navy, and REI, have been found to contain toxic chemicals in their clothes. While these chemicals are used at relatively low levels, they are still present in some clothing. A new report released Wednesday ranked retail and apparel brands on policy commitments to eliminate a dangerous class of toxic “forever chemicals”, known as PFAS, from their products.

Over 25 of fashion accessories tested from Ross and Burlington contained toxic lead levels. A CBC investigation found dangerously high levels of toxins in Shein clothing and other major fashion brands. Products from SHEIN, TEMU, and AliExpress have been found to contain dangerous levels of toxic chemicals.

To protect yourself from toxic chemicals, look for GOTS-certified, OEKO-TEX, and BlueSign fabrics. Levi Strauss has halted using the chemicals, while other brands, such as Patagonia, L.L. Bean, Lululemon, and Eddie Bauer, have pledged to phase them out. Other major brands, like Ralph Lauren and Patagonia, have already removed PFAS from their merchandise.

What clothing is not toxic?

Over 8, 000 chemicals are used in clothing manufacturing, but not all are harmful. Non-toxic clothing is made from natural, renewable, and organic fibers like cotton, linen, and hemp, free of harmful dyes, toxins, and synthetic materials. It is also free of dangerous additives like flame retardants, formaldehyde, perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), phthalates, and heavy metals. Non-toxic clothes are more breathable, providing better air circulation for the skin and body.

Formaldehyde is used to make fabrics wrinkle-resistant, but it can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory problems. Phthalates, found in synthetic leather and PVC materials, are linked to reproductive problems and developmental issues in children.

Are old navy clothes toxic?

A Marketplace investigation found that potentially dangerous chemicals, known as “forever chemicals”, have been found in clothes from ultra fast fashion brands like SHEIN, Zaful, and AliExpress. A separate investigation by Environmental Health News and wellness blog Mamavation found that PFAS, or “forever chemicals”, were found in Old Navy and Lululemon women’s sportswear. Eight brands had PFAS indicators, including Atleta Girl Chit Chat Shorts, Gaiam High Rise Waist Yoga Pants, Knix Hightouch High Rise Leggings, Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant, LuLaRoe Leggings, Old Navy Athletic Pants, Vuori Elevation Performance Black Camo Athletic Leggings, and Yogalicious “Lux” High Waist Side Pocket Capri.

What is the least toxic fabric to wear?

Bamboo and organic cotton are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional cotton fabrics due to their biodegradability, sustainability, and lack of pesticides. Bamboo fabric is breathable, antibacterial, and comfortable on the skin, while industrial hemp fabric requires no pesticides and requires less energy for production. Hemp fabric also blocks the sun better than cotton. Organic cotton is becoming more widely available due to the damage caused by pesticides in conventional produce.

Buying organic cotton reduces toxins in the air and skin, and can reduce pesticide chemicals released into the water supply during washing. Other good fabric alternatives include silk, flax, wool, and tencel made from sustainable wood pulp. Cotton is the most common fabric, but conventional cotton crops require heavy pesticides and chemicals, and the bleach and dyes used in production add to its toxicity. To avoid these materials, opt for fitted garments like underwear and sleepwear made from organic or natural materials.

Is it safe to wear clothes from Shein?

Shein clothes are not toxic, but they have faced criticism for using high levels of harsh chemicals in their products. There is no evidence to suggest that Shein clothes are inherently toxic, but concerns have been raised about the materials used in some of their products, such as lead, phthalates, and azo dyes. Research findings show that Shein clothing for both children and adults, including pregnant women, contains high levels of lead, phthalates, and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are linked to health and sustainability issues, potentially harming both the environment and human health.

Do Shein clothes contain toxic chemicals?

A recent investigation by South Korean authorities has revealed the presence of carcinogenic substances in items of clothing purchased from the online retailer Shein. The substances were found to exceed the legal limit by a significant margin, with concentrations hundreds of times higher than the permitted level. Chinese e-commerce companies such as Shein, Temu, and AliExpress have gained considerable global popularity due to their ability to offer high-quality, fashionable clothing and accessories at competitive prices. The findings have been corroborated by the authorities in Seoul.

Should I worry about lead in clothes?

Emily DiFrisco’s article “Toxic Fashion: New Report Reveals High Lead Levels in Off-Price Retailer Accessories” highlights the alarming findings of the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) that in 2022, over 25 of fashion accessories tested from Ross and Burlington contained lead levels ranging from 0. 03 to 1. 7. These findings have sparked debates about the adequacy of regulations and raised concerns among consumers. Exposure to lead via clothing can lead to cardiovascular diseases, health issues in adults and children, and even minimal exposure can negatively impact neurodevelopment.

Decades of environmental racism have exposed residents in Southeast San Diego to harmful consequences, such as soil contamination with Polychlorinated Biphenyls and pollution of bay waters in Logan Heights. This has led to elevated rates of asthma hospitalizations, cancer risks, and mental health disorders compared to national averages. Disparities in store distribution, such as the Coronado community having no Ross stores and Southeast
San Diego having over five, further expose communities like Logan Heights to risks like lead exposure and harmful pollutants.

Proposition 65 is crucial in alerting individuals to potential dangers, but its effectiveness depends on strong enforcement and business cooperation. Retailers bear the responsibility of ensuring product safety and addressing chemical contamination promptly. Conversations with families about high levels of lead or other toxic chemicals in clothing and accessories can be challenging, often shifting towards the affordability of clothing rather than considering the material composition or potential harmful chemicals.

What is the healthiest clothing to wear?

The use of natural, organic fabrics, including organic cotton, flax linen, hemp linen, silk, and merino wool, in one’s wardrobe has the dual benefit of supporting personal health and promoting sustainability. These materials are breathable, gentle, and free from harmful chemicals, thereby offering a healthier and more comfortable option. It is advisable to select garments that are mindful of the impact on both the individual and the wider community.

Does H&M have toxic chemicals?

H and M Group has adopted Screened Chemistry to ensure the use of the best-in-class chemicals in their products and value chain. This hazard-based method, which involves a third-party assessment, addresses environmental and human health hazards. Chemicals are essential in everyday life and are used in clothing manufacturing. H and M Group’s Chemical Roadmap aims to lead the change towards safe products and a safe value chain, eliminating hazardous discharge into water, soil, and air.

How to wash toxins out of Shein clothes?

To reduce the risk of chemical exposure associated with new Shein garments, it is recommended to wash them prior to wear with a mild detergent and baking soda. This process will help to neutralize any residual odors or substances that may have been used during the manufacturing process. Additionally, it is essential to adhere to the care instructions outlined on the clothing label.

Does Forever 21 use toxic chemicals?

Forever 21 has yet to implement programs aimed at reducing the use of chemicals in its supply chain. This is a significant concern given the potential health risks associated with toxic chemicals such as lead, PFAs, and phthalates. The company does not indicate any collaboration with raw material producers on the implementation of regenerative or organic practices. Additionally, there are no discernible policies or objectives pertaining to the protection of individuals engaged in the production of the fabrics. The only environmental actions that Forever 21 is taking are as follows:

How do you know if your clothes have toxic chemicals?

Oeko-Tex® and BLUESIGN® certifications are international authorities that focus on chemical safety. Oeko-Tex 100 Standard certified textiles ensure that every element is tested and contains no harmful substances to human health. These certifications do not guarantee no harmful chemicals have entered the material, but only if they have been removed. Consumers can use this information to determine the safety of the clothing material.

Natural performance fabrics, such as Tencel, are natural and renewable materials that possess desired properties like wrinkle-resistant and cooling. However, washing clothing before wearing is important, as it releases chemicals into the water system and can pollute the environment. New doesn’t mean clean, and using these certifications can help ensure the safety of clothing items.