You know that "new clothes" smell? The one that hits you when you open a package from your favorite online store? Hate to break it to you, but that's not the scent of fresh fashion, it's actually chemicals. I didn't think much about what was in my clothes until I developed a weird rash that wouldn't go away. Turns out, my skin was reacting to the chemicals in a new dress I'd been wearing. That's when I started digging into what's really in our clothing, and honestly, I was shocked. Let me walk you through what I learned, because chances are, you're wearing some of these chemicals right now. The 7 Chemicals You Should Know About 1. Formaldehyde Where it hides: "Wrinkle-free" or "permanent press" clothing, especially dress shirts and pants. What it does: Keeps your clothes from wrinkling, but it's also used to preserve dead bodies. It can cause skin rashes, watery eyes, and burning sensations. The World Health Organization has classified it as a known carcinogen. Real talk: If your new shirt still looks crisp after being crumpled in a bag, formaldehyde is probably involved.

2. Azo Dyes Where they hide: Brightly colored clothing, especially reds, oranges, and yellows. What they do: These dyes make colors pop, but when they break down (from sweat or washing), they can release chemicals that have been linked to bladder cancer. They're banned in the EU for clothing that touches skin, but still used in many other countries. Watch for: Super bright colors that bleed when you wash them, that's a red flag. 3. NPEs (Nonylphenol Ethoxylates) Where they hide: Most conventionally made clothing, they're used in the dyeing and washing process. What they do: These hormone disruptors can interfere with your endocrine system. When you wash your clothes, NPEs end up in waterways where they harm aquatic life and eventually make their way back into our drinking water. The sneaky part: They're not in the final product exactly, but residues remain on your clothes. 4. Phthalates Where they hide: Plasticky prints, graphics, and synthetic leather. Also in that rubbery smell on new shoes or bags. What they do: Another hormone disruptor that's been linked to reproductive issues and developmental problems in children. They're especially concerning for pregnant women. Easy test: If you can smell plastic on your clothes, phthalates are likely present. 5. Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Where they hide: Water-resistant and stain-resistant clothing, outdoor gear, raincoats, treated jeans. What they do: These "forever chemicals" don't break down in the environment or in your body. They've been linked to thyroid disease, high cholesterol, and immune system problems. Reality check: That expensive water-resistant jacket? It might be protecting you from rain while exposing you to PFCs. 6. Heavy Metals (Lead, Cadmium, Chrome) Where they hide: Leather goods, metal zippers, buttons, dyed fabrics, and especially cheap jewelry. What they do: Lead can damage your nervous system. Chromium (used in leather tanning) can cause allergic reactions and skin ulcers. These accumulate in your body over time. Warning sign: If metal accessories turn your skin green or black, that's heavy metal residue. 7. Chlorine Bleach Where it hides: White clothing, especially cotton sheets, towels, and underwear. What it does: Creates dioxins during production, some of the most toxic chemicals known to science. While the bleach itself washes out, dioxin residues can remain and cause skin irritation. The irony: We use bleach to make things "clean," but it's anything but.

How to Protect Yourself (Without Throwing Out Your Entire Wardrobe)

Look, I'm not suggesting you burn all your clothes and walk around naked. But here are some practical steps that actually work: Before You Buy: Check labels for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX Standard 100, or Bluesign Avoid anything labeled "wrinkle-free," "stain-resistant," or "permanent press" Be cautious with super bright colors or anything that smells strongly of chemicals Ask brands about their chemical policies—good companies will be transparent When You Get New Clothes: Always, ALWAYS wash new clothes before wearing them (even if the tag says you don't need to) Wash them separately the first few times to avoid transferring chemicals to other clothes Use hot water if the fabric allows—it helps remove more residues Air dry in the sun when possible—UV light actually helps break down some chemicals For Your Existing Wardrobe: Wash clothes you haven't worn in a while before putting them back into rotation If something causes skin irritation, stop wearing it Consider replacing the items you wear most often (underwear, pajamas, workout clothes) with safer alternatives first

The Mukasy Collections Difference This is exactly why we started Mukasy Collections. We were tired of wondering what was in our clothes and whether they were safe for our families. At Mukasy Collection, we use certified organic and natural materials that are tested to be free from harmful chemicals. Every piece in our collection meets strict safety standards, not because we have to, but because we believe you deserve to know what's touching your skin. We're transparent about our production process, our dye methods, and our fabric sources. No formaldehyde. No toxic dyes. No hormone disruptors. Just clothes you can feel good about wearing. Because fashion shouldn't come with a side of toxins. The Bottom Line You don't need to become paranoid about every piece of clothing you own. But being aware of what's in your clothes empowers you to make better choices, for your health and for the planet. Start small. Maybe replace your underwear with organic cotton. Choose natural fibers when you can. Support brands that care about this stuff. Every little change adds up. Your skin is your largest organ, and it absorbs what you put on it. You deserve to know what that is.