Science shows that clothing can release PFAS, phthalates, bisphenols, heavy metals, and microplastics that migrate into sweat, absorb through skin, and are inhaled via shed fibers. Functional treatments like stain-resistance and antimicrobial coatings typically indicate the use of PFAS or other chemical treatments.
This is LOW PRIORITY because outerwear has less direct skin contact than other clothing categories. Plastic-based materials also serve genuine functional purposes in outerwear (water resistance, insulation), and natural fiber alternatives are difficult to find.
Laurel recommends outerwear made primarily with natural fibers, especially on inner linings where skin is exposed. Avoiding all synthetic materials is not reasonable in this category.
Laurel avoids anything advertised as stain-resistant or antimicrobial, as these labels typically indicate PFAS or other chemical treatments with potential health risks.
Tip: If finding fully natural-fiber outerwear isn't feasible, prioritize natural materials on the inner lining that touches your skin, and layer with natural-fiber clothing underneath.
Science showsclothing can release PFAS, phthalates, bisphenols, heavy metals, and microplastics that migrate into sweat, absorb through skin, and are inhaled via shed fibers. Functional treatments like stain-resistance and antimicrobial coatings typically indicate the use of PFAS or other chemical treatments.
Laurel recommends outerwear made primarily with natural fibers, especially on inner linings where skin is exposed. Avoiding all synthetic materials is not reasonable in this category.
Laurel avoidsanything advertised as stain-resistant or antimicrobial, as these labels typically indicate PFAS or other chemical treatments with potential health risks.
Tip: If finding fully natural-fiber outerwear isn't feasible, prioritize natural materials on the inner lining that touches your skin, and layer with natural-fiber clothing underneath.