Clothing & underwear

We weigh fabric and finishes most (50%) because that is where the research points: PFAS turned up in every stain-resistant children’s textile analyzed (PubMed (opens in a new tab)), some dyes are a leading cause of textile contact allergy (PubMed (opens in a new tab)), and metals in underwear vary with the fabric (PubMed (opens in a new tab)). Elastane and nylon cost points because synthetic fabrics shed microfibers (microplastics guide). A certificate vouches for a factory’s process, so a test of the finished garment counts for more.

Fabric & finishes 50%

Organic cotton or another natural fiber, as close to 100% as the garment allows, with no PFAS, antimicrobial silver or wrinkle-free finishes.

Independent testing 20%

Highest for independent PFAS or chemical tests of the finished garment; GOTS or OEKO-TEX listings the maker pays for count next.

Trust 15%

Highest when the maker names everything, answers questions, and has no recalls, warning letters, Prop 65 notices or lawsuits over safety or labeling. Points come off for unresolved problems and for paid promoters it does not disclose.

Value 15%

Price per piece against the others here that pass.

Each product scores every one from 1 to 5, and its rating is the weighted average. We list only products rated 3 or above that break none of our rules.

We avoid

• Period and leak-proof underwear without a named lab’s PFAS or total-fluorine report for the style sold.
• “Antibacterial” or “odor-free” fabrics that do not say how.
• “Natural” or “eco” labels with no fiber breakdown.

Read the research

• Chemicals in Clothing and Textiles
• How to Reduce Your PFAS Exposure
• Tampons, Pads, Cups, and Period Underwear
• Reducing Your Microplastic Exposure