Healthy alternatives
Clothing made of untreated cotton and natural fibres (linen, hemp…)
Favour garments made of organic fabrics to ensure a chemical-free finish.
DIY
To reduce potential chemicals in clothing, wash or soak the garment in water with 1 cup of white vinegar, 1 cup of salt, or 1/2 cup of baking soda.
Also avoid washing clothes with scented products (detergents, fabric softeners) which can be harmful.
Healthy options for: Laundry, Fabric Softners
Avoid the following chemicals in regular products
Formaldehyde: carcinogen, irritant to eyes and respiratory tract, respiratory sensitizer
Plastics (polyester, nylon, acrylic, spandex): may contain hydrocarbons, phthalates and bisphenol A which are endocrine disrupters
Flame retardant chemicals: toxic to humans, release VOCs, possible toxic effects on the nervous and hormonal systems
Dyes: possible carcinogens, skin sensitizers, photosensitizers and mutagens