What Mainstream Media Is Finally Talking About
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Over the past year, mainstream media outlets such as The Guardian, The New York Times and ABC News have begun reporting more frequently on the toxic chemicals found in everyday clothing.
For decades, these substances have been hiding in plain sight — woven into the very fabrics we wear against our skin — yet only recently have they become part of public conversation.
If you have ever wondered why synthetic clothing can feel suffocating, irritate sensitive skin, or simply feel “not quite right,” there is a reason.
Let’s talk about what’s really been happening in the fashion industry.
Polyester: Plastic Disguised as Fabric
Polyester is one of the most commonly used fabrics in modern fashion. It is inexpensive, wrinkle-resistant and easy to mass-produce.
But polyester is not a natural fibre. It is plastic — derived from petroleum.
When we wear polyester:
- Our skin sits against plastic fibres all day.
- The fabric does not breathe like cotton or linen.
- Microplastics shed during washing and enter waterways.
- The garment can trap heat and moisture against the skin.
More concerning is that polyester production often involves chemical treatments, dyes and finishing agents that can leave residues in the final garment. While regulations vary, not all countries enforce strict safety testing.
And because polyester is so cheap to produce, it has become the backbone of fast fashion — driving a cycle of overproduction, overconsumption and environmental harm.
If you’re looking for breathable, plastic-free alternatives, explore our Core Capsule crafted from premium natural fibres.
PFAS: The “Forever Chemicals” in Clothing
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment — or in the human body.
These chemicals are commonly used in:
- Water-resistant jackets
- Stain-resistant school uniforms
- Wrinkle-free shirts
- Performance wear
They help fabrics repel water, oil and stains. But research has increasingly linked PFAS exposure to serious health concerns, including hormone disruption and immune system impacts.
PFAS accumulate in soil, waterways and wildlife. And because clothing sits directly against our skin for hours every day, long-term exposure is a growing concern — particularly for children.
The troubling part? Most consumers have no idea their “easy care” garment may contain these treatments.
Our Core Capsule is made from OEKO-TEX® certified cotton and EUROPEAN FLAX® linen — without unnecessary chemical finishes.
Other Chemicals Hiding in Plain Sight
Beyond polyester and PFAS, many garments can contain:
- Formaldehyde (used to prevent wrinkling and mildew during shipping)
- Azo dyes (some can break down into carcinogenic compounds)
- Phthalates (used in synthetic prints and finishes)
- Heavy metals in certain dyes and embellishments
These substances are rarely listed clearly on garment labels.
The fashion industry has prioritised speed and cost efficiency for decades. Chemical finishes allow clothing to be:
- Produced faster
- Sold cheaper
- Made to look “perfect” on the rack
But perfection often comes at a hidden cost.
Choosing small-batch, natural fibre garments like those in our Core Capsule allows you to feel confident in what sits against your skin every day.
Why We’re Only Hearing About This Now
For years, conversations about toxic textiles lived in environmental science circles. Now, as consumers demand transparency and as journalists investigate supply chains more deeply, these issues are entering mainstream discussion.
Social media has also played a role. More women are questioning:
- Why synthetic fabrics make them feel uncomfortable.
- Why their skin reacts to certain garments.
- Why clothing smells strongly “chemical” straight out of the packet.
As awareness grows, so does the desire for change.
Choosing Safer Alternatives
The good news? You are not powerless.
Here are practical steps you can take:
1. Read fibre labels.
Look for natural fibres like linen, organic cotton, hemp and silk.
2. Seek certifications.
Certifications such as OEKO-TEX® or responsibly sourced fibre standards can indicate testing for harmful substances.
3. Wash new garments before wearing.
This may help remove some surface residues.
4. Buy less, choose better.
Quality natural garments worn for years reduce both chemical exposure and environmental impact.
A Gentler Way Forward
The conversation around toxic chemicals in clothing is not about fear — it is about awareness.
For too long, plastic-based, chemically treated garments have been normalised. But clothing sits against our largest organ — our skin — every single day.
As more research emerges and more media outlets shine a light on these issues, we have an opportunity to rethink what we accept as “normal” in fashion.
Choosing breathable, natural fibres made in smaller batches is not only an environmental decision — it is a personal wellbeing decision.
And perhaps this renewed awareness is the beginning of a slower, more thoughtful chapter in the way we dress.