We once used animal skins, fur and plant material as clothing. Nowadays we mainly wear plastic. Consider materials such as nylon, polyester and viscose that are cheap and popular. According to the Plastic Soup Foundation, which is committed to a plastic-free lifestyle, almost 70% of all clothing in the world is made of plastic . Pretty bizarre when you think about it. We also wear a lot of cotton, which although it is a natural material, is also one of the most sprayed crops in the world.
The real price of your clothes
All that clothing – whether high or low fashion – comes with a price. For example, synthetic clothing releases small plastic particles (microplastics) that can end up in our bodies. Clothes are also full of toxic chemicals. They may contain BPA , PFAS , formaldehyde, NPEs, phthalates and amines, among other things. Clothes can literally make us sick . Quite a shock for us when we found out. We regularly bought fast fashion ; from polyester sweaters to nylon underwear and fleece vests. Or we bought a 'wool' sweater and later discovered on the label that it contained 10% wool and only synthetics. Maybe a recognizable story.
Best brands for undyed clothing
Since we started working less toxic, we have become much more critical when shopping. We actually only want non-toxic clothing made from natural, organic materials. Get rid of microplastics and harmful chemicals. For clothing that we wear directly on the skin (such as underwear), we go one step further. We prefer them undyed and unbleached, so that they have certainly not been treated with toxic dyes and bleaching agents. We had to do a lot of research for this, because you almost never see this option among the big fashion magnates. Here we share our 5 favorite brands that offer undyed and unbleached clothing.
Hessnatur
The German company Hessnatur sells high-quality clothing made from natural, organic materials that meet strict regulations. And what's great: it has a separate category for undyed and unbleached clothes , for women, men and children. This will of course make a less toxic person very happy! For example, this indispensable top is made of 100% organic cotton, GOTS certified and completely natural.
Angel Nature
The clothing from the German company Engel is sustainably and fairly produced from soft organic wool from merino sheep, silk and organic cotton. The clothing is GOTS or IVN-Best certified. They also sell natural-colored items, such as undyed underwear. These undyed and unbleached briefs are made of 100% organic cotton, IVN-BEST certified and super comfortable.
Cottonique
The American company Cottonique makes latex/spandex-free and chemical-free clothing from 100% organic cotton. They do not use bleaches and dyes that irritate sensitive skin. This bra top from Cottonique is made of 100% organic cotton, free of latex and spandex and unbleached and undyed. So absolutely great. And good news: they ship to the Netherlands!
LivingCrafts
When we were looking for undyed and unbleached pajamas , we came across the German brand Living Crafts. The brand focuses on organic clothing with the GOTS label at a reasonable price. This nightdress is made of 100% organic cotton, GOTS certified and (believe us) wonderfully soft and comfortable.
Grodo
Undyed and unbleached socks without elastane? They exist! These fine socks from the German family business Grödo are made of 100% organic cotton and GOTS certified. The fine knit provides the necessary 'stretch'. So they really contain 0 elastane. We are fans!
Disclaimer (Do Your Own Research): We love to share with you our experiences and knowledge that we have gained in our search for a toxic-free life. At the same time, we would like to emphasize that you are solely responsible for your health (that goes without saying, right?). The information we share here is for general educational purposes and is not personalized medical advice. Everyone is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.