How Toxins in Clothing are Impacting Human Health and the Environment with Steffi Schmidt

In this episode, Amanda welcomes Steffi Schmidt, founder of Fig for Kids, a non-toxic clothing brand for kids. They discuss the common toxins found in everyday clothing, including dyes and forever chemicals, the environmental and health impacts they carry, particularly for children, and the alarming lack of regulation in the U.S. compared to Europe.

Key Discussion Points:

• Understanding Toxins: We explore the two main categories of harmful substances in clothing: immunosensitizers (like azo dyes) and endocrine disruptors (such as forever chemicals). These toxins can lead to skin allergies, respiratory issues, and even more serious health concerns.
• The Consumer's Dilemma: Despite the growing awareness around clean beauty and household products, many consumers remain unaware of the toxins in their everyday clothing. We discuss why it's crucial for consumers to be informed about what they're wearing and how it impacts their health and the environment. Steffi highlights the need for greater transparency and regulation in the U.S., contrasting it with Europe’s stricter standards for chemical use in textiles.
• The Journey to Non-Toxic Fashion: Steffi shares her personal story of how a health crisis in her family inspired her to create a line of non-toxic children's clothing. 
• Practical Tips: We provide actionable advice on how to make safer choices when shopping for clothes, including what to look for on labels and the significance of certifications like GOTS and Oeko-Tex.

Resources: https://figforkids.com

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