This book reveals in unprecedented detail the toxic truth about the clothes we wear and the surprising number of harmful effects on health caused by garments once considered safe. From toxic chemicals like formaldehyde and phthalates to insecticides, flame retardants, and nano-particles, synthetic clothing today contains a toxic stew of dozens of substances that pose a threat to both human and environmental health. You'll learn: what fabrics and chemicals to watch for when selecting clothing; how to identify deceptive synthetic fabrics; why to avoid clothing labeled antishrink, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antistatic, anti-odor, antiwrinkle, or antistain; the advantages for choosing natural fabrics; and tips for ecological and health-friendly cleaning; Based on medical science, these studies have been brought together for the first time in one place; important findings which have, for too long, been hidden from public awareness.