In today’s world, more people are looking for clothing that supports both a healthy lifestyle and a healthier planet. From recycled materials to labels like “eco-friendly” or “organic,” the shelves are full of clothing that claims to be good for the planet but is wearing recycled plastics good for you?
Sustainability is a skyrocketing trend but very little is known about what clothing is made of and how that can impact your health. With more and more headlines about BPAs, formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals in activewear from leading brands, it's an alarming reminder - what's on you is in you. So how do you make sure what you're wearing is good for the environment AND your health?
Why Is Certified Clean Clothing So Important?
Your skin is your largest organ, and it absorbs substances that come into contact with it—including residues from the clothing you wear. Standard activewear can be treated with dyes, finishes, and chemicals that may irritate the skin or even impact long-term health. Plus, toxic runoff from clothing production contributes greatly to pollution. Certified Clean clothing is a win for both your body and the planet.
How to Tell If Your Clothing Is Really Clean
Here are a few things to look for to spot the real deal from companies that value transparency over buzzwords:
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Check for Certifications Like OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Certifications like OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 are the gold standard for clean and safe textiles. Clothing that is OEKO-TEX® certified has been tested and verified as free from hundreds of harmful substances. Every thread, button, and fabric piece is screened against strict criteria. Brands that go the extra mile to obtain this certification are putting in the work to meet a higher safety standard for your health and the environment.
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Look for Clear, Specific Language Greenwashing often hides behind vague claims like “green” or “eco-friendly.” Real certifications are clear and detailed. Look for words like “Certified Clean,” “GOTS Certified” (for organic textiles), or “bluesign® approved.” If a brand doesn’t share specifics about its certifications, it may be time to ask questions.
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Ask About Transparency in the Production Process Brands committed to clean, sustainable products are transparent about how their clothing is made. They may share information about their supply chain, materials, and manufacturing processes. This transparency demonstrates a true commitment to ethical practices, from sourcing to production.
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Research the Materials Sustainable fabrics, like organic cotton, TENCEL™, and bamboo, have gained popularity as alternatives to conventional materials. However, just because a fabric sounds eco-friendly doesn’t mean it’s automatically safe. Look for materials that are third-party certified or verified by brands with a commitment to safe manufacturing.
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Read Reviews and Brand Reputation Sometimes, the most reliable information about a brand’s commitment to safety and sustainability comes from other customers. Look for reviews that discuss quality, comfort, and longevity. Brands committed to clean clothing take pride in the durability of their products, as extended wearability is a key factor in sustainability.
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Consider the Price Point Truly clean, sustainable clothing often costs more due to the rigorous testing, certifications, and ethical production practices involved. While a higher price doesn’t guarantee a product is Certified Clean, ultra-cheap “green” activewear may be a red flag.
Don’t Settle for Greenwashed “Clean”—Choose Certified Clean
In an industry where buzzwords are everywhere, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification and other reliable standards offer peace of mind. Our commitment to Certified Clean is about putting health, safety, and environmental stewardship first. When you choose OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 activewear, you’re making an empowered choice for truly clean clothing, free from harmful substances and backed by proven standards. Shop Sweat Smart, Certified Clean Activewear.
Remember: If it’s really clean, a brand will be transparent, thorough, and certified. So, next time you shop, take a closer look at those tags, and invest in activewear that doesn’t just look good, but does good—for you and the planet.
