The toxic chemicals in our clothes – lead, chromium, PFAS, phthalates – and the harm they do us, our children and the workers who make them

Fast fashion firm Shein has been accused of using chemicals in clothes that are linked to health problems in their wearers. Lululemon and Old Navy do the same

Lead, chromium, phthalates, PFAS and brominated flame retardants are widely used by clothing manufacturers. Here’s what they do to your body and immune system

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Fast fashion is under attack again, this time over toxic chemicals, from lead used in zips and as a cheap pigment to phthalates that can cause heart problems. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 7:55pm, 2 Sep 2022

Chinese fast-fashion company Shein has responded to claims that its clothing contains toxic chemicals, insisting it is committed to “product safety”.

“We regularly test products and take action when non-compliance is found, including terminating suppliers,” the fast fashion brand said in response to a tweet.

A 2021 investigation into Shein by Canadian Broadcasting Corporation found elevated levels of lead, phthalates, and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – chemicals linked to health problems – in clothing for children and adults, including pregnant women.

Experts said Shein is not a unique case. Clothes from many large clothing brands like Lululemon, Old Navy, and REI have been found to contain toxic chemicals.

An 2021 investigation into Shein found elevated levels of lead, phthalates, and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its clothes. Photo: Jade Gao/AFP

While these chemicals are used at low levels, exposure to toxic substances over time can elevate a person’s risk of serious health conditions, such as asthma and kidney damage.