I had to remind myself the other day to be more diligent about the type of fabric I wear in t-shirts, underwear, and clothes in general. The synthetic toxic materials we are conditioned and accustomed to wearing are dangerous to our health.
One of the many benefits I’ve discovered in my travels to Africa and the Middle East is that they still use natural fabrics in their clothing.
In these regions, healthier fabrics have traditionally been preferred for centuries, with cotton, linen, and other natural fibers taking center stage. For example, in the Middle East, fabrics like cotton and linen are widely used, especially in countries like Egypt, Turkey, and Iran, where they suit the hot, dry climate. These natural fibers allow for breathability and moisture wicking, making them far more comfortable and safer than synthetic alternatives. Similarly, in Africa, fabrics like Adire and Ankara, made from natural cotton and dyed using plant-based pigments, have long been favored for their comfort, durability, and non-toxic qualities.
Traditional textiles in these cultures often rely on natural dyes, such as indigo, derived from the indigo plant. This method is far less harmful than the synthetic dyes widely used today. Unfortunately, the globalization of the textile industry is increasing and slowly but surely, so are synthetic fabrics in these regions, negatively impacting both the health of local populations and traditional sectors.
Back in the States, we’ve become too accustomed to toxic, synthetic fabrics. Synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon and acrylic, all made from petrochemicals, contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions during production. These fabrics also shed harmful microplastics with every wash, polluting our water and entering the food chain. Worse still, many of these materials contain chemicals like phthalates, formaldehyde and azo dyes, which have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption and other health issues.
It’s easy to forget that fabric is in constant contact with the largest organ of our body—our skin. The skin absorbs chemicals from clothing just like it would absorb lotion or cream. Dr. Philip Tierno, a clinical professor at NYU, notes that prolonged contact with chemically laden fabrics can introduce harmful substances into the bloodstream, causing long-term damage.
Wearing toxic materials is like applying a chemical treatment to your skin daily.
The fashion industry also contributes significantly to environmental damage. Textile manufacturing is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions, with excessive water use and toxic dye pollution being additional concerns. Conventional cotton farming, for instance, requires vast amounts of water and relies on harmful pesticides. Poisonous dyes used in production often find their way into rivers, contributing to widespread water pollution.
The risks to human health from synthetic fabrics are numerous. Formaldehyde, used to make fabrics wrinkle-resistant, is a known irritant and can cause skin rashes and respiratory issues. Long-term exposure has even been linked to cancer. Azo dyes and phthalates, found in many synthetic garments, can disrupt hormones and lead to developmental and reproductive problems.
Fortunately, there are safer, more eco-friendly alternatives. Organic cotton, grown without harmful pesticides and processed using non-toxic methods, is one such fabric. Hemp is another durable, breathable, and hypoallergenic material requiring minimal water. Linen, made from flax plants, is naturally antimicrobial and biodegradable. Tencel, a fabric made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, is soft, breathable and gentle on the skin.
As consumers, making informed choices about the fabrics we wear can positively impact our health. By choosing natural, non-toxic materials, we can protect our health and reduce the fashion industry’s environmental impact. Dr. Heather Patisaul, a toxicologist, reminds us that many chemicals in clothing production haven’t been adequately tested for long-term exposure, making it even more essential to opt for safer options.
Just as we pay attention to what we put into our bodies, we should also care about what we put on them. It’s time to rethink the fabrics we wear and choose options that are healthier for both ourselves and the planet.
