Toxic “Forever” PFAS in Clothing Pose Health Risks, Natural Fibers Are a Better Choice

Learn about the dangers of PFAS and how to choose safer, more sustainable clothing.

Swallowtail Top and Cropped Pants made of eco friendly hemp and tencel.

In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile toxic spills that have made headlines. These spills have raised awareness of the dangers of toxic chemicals, and many people are now wondering if the clothes they wear are safe. The truth is, many of the clothes we wear are treated with toxic chemicals that can pose a serious health risk.These chemicals, known as PFAS, are often used to make fabrics water-resistant, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-resistant. However, PFAS are also linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, thyroid problems, and reproductive issues. 

What are PFAS?

PFAS stands for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These are a group of man-made chemicals that are used in a wide variety of products, including clothing, food packaging, cookware, and firefighting foam. PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" because they are very resistant to breaking down in the environment. This means that they can accumulate in our bodies and in the environment, where they can cause harm. 

How are PFAS used in clothing?

PFAS are used in clothing to make it water-resistant, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-resistant. These properties make PFAS-treated clothing popular with consumers, but they also come at a cost. PFAS can leach out of clothing and into our bodies, where they can build up over time. 

What are the health risks of PFAS?

PFAS have been linked to a number of health problems, including:

• Cancer 
• Thyroid problems 
• Reproductive issues 
• High cholesterol 
• Liver damage 
• Kidney damage 
• Developmental problems in children

How to avoid PFAS in clothing 

The best way to avoid PFAS in clothing is to buy clothing made from natural fibers, such as hemp, cotton, wool, and linen. If you do buy clothing made from synthetic fibers, look for clothing that is labeled as "PFAS-free." You can also check the clothing label for the presence of PFAS. If PFAS are present, they will be listed under the name of the chemical, such as "perfluorooctanoic acid" (PFOA) or "perfluorooctanesulfonate" (PFOS).

Why choose Sympatico Clothing?

Sympatico is a women's clothing company that is committed to sustainability and health. All of Sympatico's clothing is made from sustainable, natural fibers, including hemp and Tencel. Hemp is a durable, versatile fiber that is grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides. Tencel is a fiber made from wood pulp that is biodegradable and compostable. Sympatico Clothing is made from natural fibers that are meant to be enjoyed and cared for. This means that Sympatico Clothing is a good choice for people who are looking for sustainable, natural fiber clothing that is not treated with harsh chemicals. 

PFAS are a serious health hazard, and they are found in many of the clothes we wear. By choosing clothing made from natural fibers, you can avoid PFAS and protect your health.