Synthetic Dyes Can Be Harmful!

Did you know that your skin is the largest absorption organ of your body? Especially as it heats up, your pores will begin to breathe more, meaning that everything you put on your skin could potentially be absorbed by your skin. Synthetic dyes are used in almost everything we wear, so why not explore whether or not they are entirely safe?

Synthetic dyes have enabled us to create beautiful colors at a low cost that are wash proof. However, they can pose serious problems for people. Synthetic dyes can introduce toxins to your body through your pores, into your blood stream and eventually to your organs. Skin irritation is much more common today than it has been in the past which could be linked to harmful synthetic dyes. Over 8,000 chemicals are used to produce the synthetic dyes that color our garments. These dyes can contribute to eczema, rashes, headaches and even nausea. For example, did you know that wrinkle free or easy care garments have formaldehyde in them? Formaldehyde is an embalming agent and in 2011, was deemed a carcinogenic agent (http://www.totalhealthmagazine.com/articles/allergies-asthma/consumers-beware-toxins-lurking-in-your-clothing.html). Many countries in the world forbid the use of formaldehyde in clothing because of how harmful it is believed to be. Two of the largest countries who do not ban it however are America and China. Dioxins and heavy metals (like copper) are also in synthetic dyes and are also considered carcinogens (http://greencotton.wordpress.com/2008/06/18/synthetic-dyes-a-look-at-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/).

Beware of the type of fabric you are wearing as well. Pesticides and strong herbicides and fungicides are all used in the production and treatment of cottons and wool. If you can find organic fabrics, it is best for you, especially if you have sensitive skin. An interesting fact about organic cotton is that only 1% of the world's cotton is grown organically.

It is hard to be 100% green and to find organic, naturally dyed clothing. However, when you do find a company that produces this standard of clothing, it could be worthwhile to consider trying a few pieces.

Some great resources on this are listed below:

http://greencotton.wordpress.com/2008/06/18/synthetic-dyes-a-look-at-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/

http://www.totalhealthmagazine.com/articles/allergies-asthma/consumers-beware-toxins-lurking-in-your-clothing.html

Is Alum a Safe Mordant for Baby Clothes?

Yes! I use alum in my mordant process. Mordanting is a means by which to help the fabric take the dye. Depending on whether or not your fabric is a plant based material versus an animal based material (wool), you will need to choose different types of mordants. Some dyes do not require mordants. Avocados and walnut hull dyes for example do not require mordants to adhere to the fabrics. 

Aluminum Sulfate (alum) is a substance found in the earth and can be used to help brighten colors. It can also extend the color life on the fabric. It however can be an irritant if applied to the skin. For my dyeing, only  a small quantity of alum is required. After I wash the garment, it is perfectly safe for an infant to wear.

To make sure alum was a safe mordant, I contacted the regional poison control center number listed on the Center for Disease Control website. The operator informed me that after the garment is properly washed, the alum should not be harmful to the child. He also informed me that large volumes of alum must be ingested in a child with kidney deficiencies, in order for it to have poisonous effects. 

It is very important when dyeing, that you make sure that all of the elements you use are safe for you or your family and friends. I recommend contacting the free poison control number (1-800-222-1222) to verify that all of your substances are safe. 

Happy and safe dyeing!