The unexpected impact on our health and well-being from toxic clothes.
When we think about toxins in our daily lives, we often focus on food, cleaning products, or outside pollution. But there’s another source we literally live in every day: our clothes. Fast fashion often uses synthetic fabrics, and many garments contain chemicals that can have an unexpected impact on our health and well-being.
What are “toxic clothes”?
“Toxic clothes” is a term used to describe clothing made with or treated using harmful chemicals. These chemicals can be present in the fibres themselves, added during dyeing and finishing, or applied to impart qualities such as wrinkle resistance, stain repellence, or stretch.
Common chemicals found in clothing include formaldehyde (used to prevent creasing), azo dyes (linked to skin irritation and allergies), phthalates (used in prints and plastics), and PFAS (often called “forever chemicals”, used for water and stain resistance). Synthetic fibres like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are derived from petrochemicals and can also release microplastics during wear and washing.
How do these chemicals affect our health?
Our skin is our largest organ, and it absorbs more than we realise. When clothing sits directly against the skin—especially tight-fitting items, underwear, or activewear—chemicals can be absorbed into the body over time.
For some people, the effects are immediate and obvious: rashes, itching, eczema flare-ups, or other allergic reactions. For others, the impact may be more subtle and long-term. Certain textile chemicals have been linked to hormone disruption, respiratory issues, and increased sensitivity in people with chemical intolerances. Babies and children are particularly vulnerable, as their skin is more absorbent and their bodies are still developing.
Synthetic fabrics can also trap heat and moisture, creating an environment where bacteria and fungi thrive, potentially leading to skin infections or discomfort.
Why fast fashion is part of the problem
Fast fashion prioritises speed and low cost, often at the expense of safety and transparency. To keep prices low, brands may use cheaper dyes and finishes, and quality control can be minimal. Garments may still carry chemical residues when they reach the shop floor—and your wardrobe.
In addition, fast fashion encourages overconsumption, increasing the volume of chemically treated textiles entering our homes and, eventually, landfills.
How can we reduce our exposure?
While it’s unrealistic to totally eliminate all chemicals from clothing, small changes can make a big difference:
- Wash new clothes before wearing them to remove surface residues
- Choose natural fibres like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and wool where possible
- Buy fewer, better-quality garments that are made to last
- Support second-hand, vintage, and upcycled textiles
- Repair and care for clothes to extend their life and reduce demand for new production
By becoming more mindful of what we wear, we can protect our health, reduce environmental harm, and build a wardrobe that truly supports a slower, more sustainable way of living.
