The Problems with Synthetic Fabrics...

Why I don't wear plastic anymore

We don't know what we don't know . . . Before I learned about the multitude of issues with synthetic fabrics, both for human health and the planet, I worked out in lululemon and athleta gear, lounged in velour jumpsuits, and wore polyester blends on the regular. Though I aimed to lead a healthy lifestyle, I didn't think too much about the fabrics I was wearing on a daily basis and how they could be affecting my physical health along with their impact on Mother Earth.

As we know, synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex are widely used in clothing due to their durability, affordability, and resistance to wrinkles. However, many people do not realize that they come with significant environmental and health concerns.

Here’s a deeper dive into the key issues and reasons behind why I quit wearing plastic:

1. Microplastic Pollution: A Hidden Threat

When synthetic fabrics are washed, they shed microfibers (tiny plastic particles).

These microfibers do not break down naturally and enter waterways, polluting oceans, lakes, and even drinking water.

Marine life ingests these plastics, causing health issues and passing them up the food chain—ultimately to humans.

Studies have found microplastics in human blood, lungs, and even placentas, raising concerns about long-term health effects.

🛑 Fact: A single wash of synthetic clothing can release thousands of microfibers into the environment. Yikes!

2. Non-Biodegradability: Stuck in Landfills for Centuries

Unlike natural fibers (like cotton, wool, linen and hemp), synthetic materials do not decompose quickly.

A polyester shirt can take 200+ years to break down in a landfill. Wow!

Even when discarded, these materials break into smaller pieces—contributing to global plastic pollution. Mo' plastic, mo' problems.

📉 The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter in the world, after the oil industry.

3. Fossil Fuel Dependency & High Carbon Footprint

Most synthetic textiles are derived from petroleum, contributing to carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

The production of polyester, for example, emits nearly three times more CO₂ than cotton.

Adding insult to injury, synthetic dyeing and processing further add to environmental damage.

⚠️ About 342 million barrels of oil are used annually to produce synthetic fibers.

4. Chemical Exposure & Health Risks

The production of synthetic fabrics involves harsh chemicals, some of which remain in the final product.

These chemicals can cause skin irritation, allergies, and even disrupt hormones.

Some synthetic fabrics off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are linked to respiratory issues and cancer.

🚫 Examples of harmful chemicals used in synthetic clothing:

Phthalates (used in plastic-based materials, linked to hormone disruption).

Formaldehyde (sometimes used to prevent wrinkles, but a known carcinogen).

Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) (used in water-resistant clothing, linked to cancer and immune problems).

5. Poor Breathability & Comfort Issues

Synthetic fabrics tend to trap heat and moisture, making them uncomfortable in hot weather. Hot flashes, anyone?

Unlike natural fibers, they do not absorb sweat well, leading to bad odors and bacteria buildup.

💡 Why does gym wear smell so bad after workouts?

Synthetic fabrics hold onto bacteria and sweat more than natural fibers, making odors harder to remove.

6. Fire Hazard: Melting Instead of Burning

Many synthetic fabrics are highly flammable and can melt onto skin when exposed to heat.

Natural fibers like cotton or wool burn but do not melt, reducing the severity of burns.

🔥 Tip: If you’re cooking or around open flames, avoid wearing synthetic clothing.

What Are the Alternatives?

Once I learned about the issues with synthetic fabrics, I've been removing this type of clothing from my wardrobe over time and I'm pleased to say I have only a handful of pieces remaining that aren't composed of 100% natural fibers that I'm not ready to part with yet. If you’re concerned about the human and planetary health impacts of synthetic clothing like me, consider switching to natural and sustainable materials like:

✅ Cotton (Organic & Recycled) – Soft, breathable, and biodegradable.

✅ Linen – Naturally moisture-wicking and long-lasting.

✅ Hemp – Requires less water and pesticides than cotton, making it highly sustainable.

✅ Wool (Ethically Sourced) – Biodegradable and naturally insulating.

✅ Silk (Ethically Sourced) – Biodegradable and naturally thermoregulating (cool in summer and warm in winter)

My favorite natural fiber brands:

1. Christy Dawn Dresses: the most beautiful dresses hand crafted from artesian dress makers in India.

2. Pact: offers great basics (leggings, panties, dresses) and is all organic cotton.

3. Wama: Awesome hemp underwear and brassieres.

Wearing natural fabrics feels better physically and mentally to me these days, and I won't be going back to wearing synthetic materials on a regular basis. When we know better, we do better.

Bonus Points: Shopping Pre-Loved Fashion

In general, the most sustainable way to shop is second-hand. Secondhand items are often significantly cheaper than new ones, and purchasing secondhand helps reduce waste and minimizes the demand for new products (contributing to environmental sustainability). I've loved second hand shopping since I was a little girl, tagging along with my paternal grandmother while she bargained at yard sales and antique shops, and scoured the racks to find unique treasures at thrift shops. The thrill of the deal brought us a rush of dopamine and shared satisfaction and joy. Grammy Ruth taught me the wonders and fun of thrifting, for which I'm forever grateful. Second hand love for the win!

I love to use consignment shops to sell and purchase clothing (win-win circulation!) and all things vintage.

Some tips:

👀 Check Fabric & Materials – Look for natural fibers like cotton, wool, silk, or linen for durability.

🧵 Inspect Seams & Stitching – Avoid items with fraying, loose threads, or weak seams.

🔍 Look for Stains, Holes, or Wear – Some are fixable, but be realistic about repairs.

🏷️ Check Brand Labels – Designer or high-quality brands last longer.

Cheers to a more natural and sustainable wardrobe!