Do clothes contain halogenated chemicals that pose health risks?

What's actually in it

Clothing, especially synthetic performance wear and children's items, is often treated with chemicals that add properties like flame resistance, wrinkle resistance, stain repellency, and antimicrobial protection. Halogenated compounds (chemicals containing chlorine, bromine, or fluorine) are common in these treatments.

These chemicals migrate from fabric onto skin over time. They also volatilize into the air around you as you wear the clothing. The combination of skin absorption and inhalation creates continuous low-level exposure throughout the day.

What the research says

A 2024 review in Chemosphere assessed health risks from halogenated chemicals in clothing. The review found unregulated halogenated flame retardants and other halogenated compounds in multiple clothing types, with estimated health risk scores indicating concern for certain consumer groups, particularly children. Many of these chemicals aren't on any regulatory list yet.

The absence of regulation doesn't mean absence of risk. It often means the research just hasn't caught up with the chemistry yet.

Natural fibers require fewer chemical treatments. Organic certification prohibits most synthetic chemical treatments. Organic cotton clothing and wool home textiles don't require halogenated flame retardants to meet fire safety standards.