Is there formaldehyde in your clothing?

Formaldehyde is used widely in textile manufacturing as a wrinkle-resistant, shrink-proof, and color-fixing agent. It is classified as a known human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Formaldehyde-based resins are applied to cotton and cotton-blend fabrics to create wrinkle-free, permanent press, and easy-care finishes that are common in dress shirts, bedsheets, and uniforms.

The United States does not regulate formaldehyde levels in clothing, unlike Japan, the EU, and China, which have set limits. Washing new garments can reduce free formaldehyde on the surface, but it does not remove bonded formaldehyde resins that are chemically attached to the fiber. These resins continue to release low levels of formaldehyde over time, especially in warm and humid conditions like those created by body heat and sweat.

Symptoms of formaldehyde sensitivity include skin irritation, rashes, headaches, and respiratory issues. To avoid formaldehyde, choose garments that are not labeled wrinkle-free or permanent press, and look for OEKO-TEX or GOTS certifications that test for formaldehyde. ONDU's curated brands avoid formaldehyde treatments entirely, offering clothing that performs well without hidden carcinogens.