Polyester- A Hidden Threat in your Baby's Wardrobe
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As parents, we go above and beyond to ensure our babies are safe, healthy, and happy. But what about the clothes they wear every day? Most baby clothes sold by fast fashion brands are made from polyester—a synthetic material that can harm your baby’s health and the environment. Here’s what these brands don’t want you to know:
1. Polyester is Plastic
Polyester is a type of plastic called polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the same material used to produce water bottles and food containers. It starts as crude oil, which is extracted, refined into chemicals, and processed into PET plastic. This plastic is then melted, spun into fibers, which may contain toxic heavy metals like cadmium and lead ([National Geographic, 2020]).
When you wrap your baby in polyester, you’re essentially wrapping them in plastic. Their delicate skin, which is thinner and more sensitive than adult skin, is in constant contact with this synthetic material.
2. Polyester Contains Harmful Chemicals
Polyester is often treated with various chemicals to enhance its functionality, making it wrinkle-resistant, flame-retardant, or stain-resistant. These treatments involve substances like:
- Formaldehyde for wrinkle resistance
- Flame retardants to meet safety standards
- PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) for stain resistance ([Environmental Working Group, 2023]).
These chemicals don’t remain locked in the fabric. They can leach into the air, especially when warmed by body heat, or be absorbed through your baby’s skin. Prolonged exposure to these substances has been linked to hormone disruption, respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even cancer ([NIH, 2022]).
3. Microplastics and Health Risks
Every time polyester is washed or worn, it sheds microplastics—tiny plastic particles that are nearly impossible to filter out of water systems. These microplastics often contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Once absorbed into the body, they can lead to:
- Fertility problems
- Hormonal imbalances
- Insulin resistance
- Metabolic disorders
- Certain cancers ([ScienceDirect, 2021]).
Microplastics can also disrupt the gut microbiome, impair immune function, and weaken the intestinal barrier, which is especially concerning for babies with developing immune systems ([NIH, 2023]).
4. Polyester Takes 200 Years to Break Down
Polyester isn’t just harmful to your baby—it’s also a major environmental pollutant. It can take up to 200 years to decompose, all the while shedding microplastics into the soil and water. ([National Geographic, 2020]).
What Can You Do?
Protecting your baby from polyester’s harmful effects starts with making informed choices. Here’s how:
1. Choose Natural Fibers
Opt for 100% cotton. And no bamboo, is not entirely a natural fiber although derived from a natural source. But that is a story for another time! Cotton is breathable, gentle on sensitive skin, and free from harmful chemicals. Even blended fabrics can shed microplastics, so aim for 100% natural fibers whenever possible.
2. Wash Clothes Wisely
Wash clothes in cold water and air dry them to reduce fiber shedding. Hot water and dryers accelerate the release of microplastics into the environment.
3. Avoid Synthetic Fabrics
Steer clear of polyester, nylon, acrylic, and elastane, which are all derived from petroleum-based sources and carry similar risks. Especially avoid synthetic fabrics for clothing your little ones will wear for extended periods, like pajamas, t-shirts, and travel outfits. These are in constant contact with their skin for hours, increasing the risk of chemical absorption and irritation.
By making these small but impactful changes, you can protect your baby’s health and ensure their comfort while supporting a more sustainable future.
Why Arubana?
At Arubana, we believe your baby deserves the best. That’s why we specialize in 100% Pima cotton—an ultra-soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic fabric free from harmful chemicals. Our products are designed with your baby’s health and comfort in mind, and they’re a sustainable choice for the planet.
Your baby’s clothes aren’t just a fashion statement; they’re a daily source of exposure to materials that can affect their health and well-being. Make the switch to safe, sustainable, and stylish baby essentials.