Last week during peak fall colors I drove up to Stillwater, MN with my Driftless Goods natural fleece, to participate in an event hosted by TOXYFREE® titled, The Fabric of Our Future: Unveiling Toxins In Textiles.
The event included a stellar panel with award winning author Alden Wicker (To Dye For), legal expert Karen Wade Cavanagh, and former 3M chemist and whistleblower Kris Hansen, where they discussed the relationship between fashion, toxins, and the risks to public health. From hazardous dyes to harmful chemical finishes, the experts shed light on how these chemicals can cause skin irritation, autoimmune disease, hormonal disruption, and increased cancer risk.
It goes without saying, we need more states to adopt PFAS bans like Minnesota and Maine have. Here is Wisconsin several Democratic state lawmakers proposed a PFAS ban in most products starting in 2028 however GOP lawmakers who have the majority are not supportive of a ban. Federally, under the Biden administration the EPA has taken on PFAS regulation. For example, in April 2024, the EPA issued the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to harmful PFAS.
To minimize your toxic intake avoid clothing that touts "enhanced performance" such as stain proof or wrinkle-free. Gore-Tex, a common textile waterproofing method, has been banned in several states as it's treated with PFAS chemicals. Stick to clothing made from natural vs. synthetic materials especially in your activewear where your body heat and sweat cause chemicals to leach.
Check out this shopper's guide on how to avoid PFAS and TOXYFREE for beautifully curated toxin-free products for your body and home. As always happy to answer any questions, I love hearing from you.
♥︎,
Caroline