Are Your Clothes Secretly Harming You? The Truth About Chemicals in Fast Fashion Fabrics

When you shop for clothes, you probably think about style, fit, or price—but have you ever thought about toxins?

Recent reports from Greenpeace revealed alarming findings: harmful chemicals including lead, formaldehyde, and phthalates have been discovered in clothing from popular fast fashion brands such as Shein, Zara, and H&M.

Why does this matter?

These toxic chemicals can have serious health implications:

• Lead is a potent neurotoxin, affecting brain development and cognitive function.

• Formaldehyde is linked to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even certain cancers.

• Phthalates, commonly used to soften plastic materials, can disrupt hormone balance, impacting fertility and overall health.

With clothing in constant contact with our skin, prolonged exposure to these substances can pose significant health risks, especially for children, pregnant women, and individuals with sensitive skin.

Fortunately, there’s a safer, healthier choice.

By law, every piece of clothing is required to declare what it is made from. This information is found on its care label- the label found on the inside of a piece of clothing. Look for clothing made from cotton, linen, wool or hemp. By choosing natural fabrics like these you reduce your exposure to dangerous toxins, protecting both your health and the environment.

If you are shopping online you will find this information under the fabric content tab. Avoid fabrics such as polyester, plastic/vinyl, PVC, acrylic which are all derived from petroleum and require significant chemical processing. 

If you are unsure how to identify a natural fabric read our blog 'What is the difference between Natural and Synthetic Fibres and how do they affect our everyday lives?'

Slow, mindful fashion isn't just better for the planet—it's essential for your wellbeing. Ready to make a change?

Explore our collection of safe, natural, and beautifully crafted garments today, and join the journey towards healthier, more intentional living.

Shop our natural fabric collections now, and choose clothing that’s good for you, inside and out.