Non-Toxic Living: Clothing For Adults (& Best Brands)
“"Good clothes open all doors."
—Thomas Fuller
Toothpaste? I get it. Non-stick chemicals on cookware? Also makes sense. But that shirt I put on each morning? How and why are there toxins in the clothes I wear?
For most of us, the morning routine of picking out clothes rarely involves pondering the potential presence of harmful toxins. We choose what we wear based on style, comfort, or occasion, often overlooking the fact that our clothing choices can impact our health and well-being.
This article delves into the lesser-known world of toxic chemicals in clothing, exploring the potential risks and guiding you toward making informed choices about the clothes you wear. I’ll explore the concerns surrounding conventional clothing, highlight the benefits of non-toxic alternatives, and recommend some of the leading brands committed to sustainable and healthy clothing production.
The Toxins In Your Clothes
The Center for Environmental Health in California tested polyester-spandex sports bras and socks and found levels of the endocrine-disrupting hormone BPA that were up to 19 times the safety limit in California. Meanwhile, a study conducted by the University of Toronto found that children wearing stain-resistant school uniforms are exposed to 1.03 parts per billion of PFAS per kilogram of body weight through their skin. These PFAS, also found in firefighting gear, are linked to cancers, obesity, a weakened immune system, and more.
Other chemicals such as formaldehyde PFCs, NPEs, heavy metals, dimethyl fumarate, disperse dyes, and phthalates are known to have impacts on our health. Yet, these companies get away with it because the US doesn’t provide any federal standards for what can be used in clothing and then sold to adults (meanwhile the EU has banned 30 substances).
As awareness grows regarding the shady and harmful practices in clothing manufacturing, more people are realizing the potential hazards lurking in their closets. This has increased the demand for greater transparency and accountability from manufacturers and regulators. After all, our clothing should enrich our lives, not endanger our health and well-being.
A Guide To Non-Toxic Clothing
What to Avoid:
Synthetic Fabrics: Avoid clothing made from synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, which often contain harmful chemicals and do not biodegrade easily.
Formaldehyde: Steer clear of clothing treated with formaldehyde, commonly used to prevent wrinkles and shrinkage, as it can irritate the skin and respiratory system.
Heavy Metals: Check labels to avoid clothing containing heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury, which can be harmful if absorbed through the skin or ingested.
Pesticides: Avoid clothing made from conventionally grown cotton, as it may contain pesticide residues harmful to children's health and the environment.
Non-Transparent Brands: Be cautious of brands that lack transparency regarding their production processes and materials, as they may be using harmful substances without your knowledge.
What to Look For:
Organic Materials: Seek garments made from certified organic materials, such as organic cotton or bamboo, to minimize exposure to pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Natural Dyes: Look for clothing dyed with natural, plant-based dyes rather than synthetic dyes, which can contain toxic substances and allergens.
Certifications: Prioritize clothing certified by reputable organizations like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, which ensure the materials used meet strict non-toxic standards.
Minimal Finishes: Select clothing with minimal finishes and treatments, avoiding items treated with wrinkle-resistant, stain-resistant, or flame-retardant chemicals.
Transparency: Look for brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes and materials used, allowing you to make informed decisions about the safety of the clothing.
Best Non-Toxic Clothing Brands
1. Outerknown
Best for: Those who value both style and sustainability
Features:
Commitment to using sustainable and eco-friendly materials
Fair Trade-certified practices
Offers a range of stylish and durable clothing for men and women
2. prAna
Best for: Yoga, climbing, and other active lifestyles
Features:
Comfortable and breathable fabrics
Focus on technical features for movement and flexibility
Commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability
3. Patagonia
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, durable and functional clothing
Features:
High-quality, durable materials
Focus on technical performance for outdoor activities
Commitment to environmental activism and sustainability
4. Pact
Best for: Affordable basics made from organic cotton
Features:
100% certified organic cotton clothing
Commitment to fair labor practices
Affordable prices
5. Tentree
Best for: Eco-conscious consumers who want to make a positive impact with their purchases
Features:
Plants ten trees for every item sold
Uses sustainable materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester
Offers a variety of clothing styles for men, women, and kids
6. Toad & Co.
Best for: People who seek a balance between style, sustainability, and comfort.
Features:
Uses sustainable materials like organic cotton, recycled materials, and bluesign® certified fabrics.
Offers clothing with a "Trail to Tavern®" style, meaning they are suitable for both outdoor activities and everyday wear.
Committed to ethical manufacturing practices and fair labor standards.
7. Paka
Best for: Those seeking comfortable, everyday clothing made with natural fibers.
Features:
Uses primarily alpaca wool in their clothing, known for its softness, warmth, and breathability.
Offers a variety of styles for men and women, including sweaters, hats, and scarves.
Focuses on ethical sourcing and fair trade practices.
8. Thermowave
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who need versatile, high-performance clothing for cold weather conditions.
Features:
Uses a unique wool-blend technology for superior temperature regulation that doesn’t itch.
Moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and naturally odor-resistant fabric.
Offers a wide range of base layers and activewear for men, women, and kids.
Designed for extreme durability and comfort in both hot and cold environments.
Learn More
To learn more about toxins, check out The Non-Toxic Living Guidebook: Hacks, Strategies, & Natural Products for Better Health. I wrote this comprehensive guide as a way to break down the complexity of toxins into a simple, easy-to-read format with practical tips and clickable links to the least toxic products I could find. Get your copy today and use the code MBD20 at checkout for a 20% discount. You can also get a paperback or hardcopy on Amazon.
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