Avoid Hidden Toxins in Costco Clothing

When it comes to reducing toxins in your life, food and supplements often get the most attention. But what about the clothes you wear every day? Many people don’t realize that conventional clothing can be a hidden source of harmful chemicals, exposing your skin to endocrine disruptors, synthetic dyes, and toxic solvents.

One of the biggest culprits? Synthetic fabrics and chemically processed textiles. These materials not only come into direct contact with your skin but can also release microplastics into your environment and bloodstream.

If you shop for clothes at Costco, you can still find some good-quality, low-toxicity options—as long as you know what to look for. Here’s how to navigate Costco’s clothing section with your health in mind.

Why Clothing Materials Matter for Cellular Health

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it absorbs more than you might think. The fabrics you wear all day long can introduce unwanted chemicals into your system, especially if they contain synthetic materials or toxic fabric treatments. Here’s why this matters:

• Endocrine Disruptors in Synthetic Fabrics – Polyester, spandex, and acrylic fabrics are often made using petroleum-based chemicals that can interfere with hormone balance.
• Toxic Solvents in Bamboo Viscose and Modal – While these fabrics start as natural materials, they undergo heavy chemical processing that can leave behind residues.
• Chemical Dyes and Fabric Treatments – Many fabrics are treated with synthetic dyes, wrinkle-resistant coatings, or flame retardants, all of which can be absorbed through your skin.
• Microplastic Shedding – Synthetic fabrics release microplastics when washed, which not only pollute the environment but can also accumulate in your body.

The Best Low-Toxicity Clothing at Costco

While some Costco clothing is best avoided, there are still a few good options that minimize synthetic materials and harmful processing.

Orvis Shorts: 82% Cotton, 18% Lyocell Bamboo

This fabric blend is one of the better choices at Costco. Cotton is breathable and natural, while lyocell bamboo is a much safer alternative to viscose bamboo, which relies on toxic solvents for production. These shorts are soft, comfortable, and a better alternative to synthetic-heavy options.

Slack Pants: 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex

The high cotton content makes these a good choice. The small amount of spandex is likely used for stretch in areas like the waistband, limiting its exposure to your skin. Natural, muted colors are also a bonus, as they contain fewer synthetic dyes.

100% Cotton Jeans or Levi’s

Denim made from 100% cotton is a solid option for those looking to reduce synthetic fibers in their wardrobe. Levi’s jeans tend to have only a small percentage of elastane (around 1-2%), making them a better pick than stretch-heavy alternatives.

What to Avoid at Costco’s Clothing Section

Certain fabrics and blends should be avoided whenever possible. These materials may look comfortable, but their chemical processing makes them a less-than-ideal choice for long-term wear.

Slack Pants: 91% Modal, 8-9% Spandex

Modal comes from natural wood fibers, but most of it undergoes harsh chemical treatment to break it down into fabric. This process can leave behind solvent residues that are absorbed through the skin.

• What to Look For Instead: If you like modal clothing, search for Tencel Modal, which is processed using a less toxic, eco-friendly method.

How to Choose Healthier Clothing at Costco

To make better choices when shopping for clothes at Costco (or anywhere else), follow these guidelines:

• Opt for Natural Fibers. Cotton, wool, and linen are some of the safest fabric options. Avoid polyester, acrylic, and rayon.
• Check Fabric Blends. A small percentage of synthetic fibers (1-2%) may be acceptable, but avoid anything that’s majority synthetic.
• Be Mindful of Dyes. Brightly colored synthetic fabrics may contain more harmful dyes. Stick to lighter, natural colors when possible.
• Avoid Chemical Coatings. Stay away from clothes labeled as “wrinkle-resistant” or “moisture-wicking,” as these often have added treatments.
• Wash Before Wearing. Washing new clothes helps remove residual dyes, chemical treatments, and microplastics.

Final Thoughts

Your clothing choices impact more than just your comfort—they can also affect your cellular health and toxin exposure. While not all clothing at Costco is low-toxic, there are still good options if you know how to read labels and choose natural fabrics. Stick with cotton, wool, and minimally processed bamboo to minimize synthetic exposure, and avoid fabrics that rely on chemical-heavy production.

A few small swaps can make a big difference in reducing daily toxin exposure, supporting long-term health, and keeping your wardrobe as non-toxic as possible.