The Ecology Center, a nonprofit environmental group, completed research that found clothing manufactured from synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon contains dangerous substances. They can be harmful to human health.
Because the compounds don’t decompose in the environment, they are sometimes known as “forever chemicals” or per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These substances are frequently utilized to make textiles stain- and water-resistant.
Yes, there are toxins even in our clothing.
PFAS & forever chemicals like it are found in almost all waterproof / athletic clothing, nonstick cookware, cosmetics, food packaging, cleaning supplies, electronics, etc.
Wear clothes free of PFAS, like 100% cotton or wool 👊 pic.twitter.com/srkn4ORdew
— Paul Saladino, MD (@paulsaladinomd) April 7, 2023
Well Known Brands
The study examined 50 items of apparel from well-known brands and discovered that every single one of them had PFAS in some quantity. According to the study, several products include up to 250 times the advised safe level of PFAS.
The risks posed by PFAS have long been understood. Among other health concerns, these substances have been related to cancer, immune system dysfunction, and developmental disorders.
Clothing made with PFAS is especially dangerous since it may expose wearers to the chemicals both during and after production and via direct skin contact.
I’ve been reading about PFAS. It’s absolutely shocking after discovering how harmful they are that they are not banned in Australia. https://t.co/hWzgTbBYSd
— Kristyn Haywood (@KristynHaywood) April 14, 2023
The authors of the research urge customers to choose natural textiles like cotton and wool over synthetic ones and apparel producers to avoid using PFAS in their goods.
A Step in the Right Direction
Some businesses, such as the outdoor apparel company Patagonia and the clothing store H&M, have already committed to gradually eliminating the use of PFAS in their products.
To guarantee all clothing is free of these dangerous substances, there is still significant work to be done. It remains to be seen how much time it takes to do this work.
The authors of the study advise consumers to conduct their own research on the apparel they buy and to get in touch with companies to request safer, more environmentally friendly items.
The study emphasizes the need of understanding the materials used in our clothing and taking precautions to safeguard our health and the environment.
This article appeared in NewsHouse and has been published here with permission.
