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Common Harmful Chemicals in Clothing
Formaldehyde: Used to make fabrics wrinkle-resistant and as a preservative in dyes and printing inks.
Phthalates: Plasticizers used in printing inks and synthetic fabrics to increase flexibility.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): Applied to fabrics for water and stain resistance.
Azo Dyes: Synthetic dyes used to color fabrics.
Chlorine Bleach: Employed to whiten fabrics and remove stains.
Heavy Metals (Lead, Cadmium, Mercury): Utilized in dyes and as contaminants in textile manufacturing.
Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs): Surfactants used in textile processing and detergents.
Health Impacts of These Chemicals
Formaldehyde: Exposure can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and has been classified as a human carcinogen.
Phthalates: Linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and developmental problems in children.
PFAS: Associated with cancers, thyroid disease, immune system effects, and developmental issues.
Azo Dyes: Some can break down into carcinogenic amines, posing cancer risks.
Chlorine Bleach: Can cause respiratory issues, skin burns, and eye irritation.
Heavy Metals: Exposure can lead to neurological issues, kidney damage, and developmental delays.
NPEs: Act as endocrine disruptors and can cause reproductive and developmental effects.
Scientific Research and Findings
A study highlighted that synthetic fibers dislodged from clothing are a major cause of acute or chronic inflammation.
plasticsoupfoundation.org
Research indicates that approximately 10% of chemicals used in textile manufacturing are potentially hazardous to humans and may negatively impact the brain.
alzdiscovery.org
Studies have shown that many synthetic fibers, such as polyester, nylon, acrylics, and spandex, can be shed from clothing and persist in the environment.
en.wikipedia.org
Reducing Exposure to Harmful Chemicals in Clothing
Wash New Clothes Before Wearing: This can remove some surface chemicals and reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Choose Natural Fibers: Opt for organic cotton, linen, hemp, and wool, which are less likely to contain harmful chemicals.
Look for Certified Clothing: Certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) ensure reduced chemical use.
Avoid Clothes with Strong Chemical Odors: A strong smell can indicate the presence of residual chemicals.
Use Gentle, Fragrance-Free Detergents: This minimizes additional chemical exposure during laundering.