Replace the Basics: Clean, Non-Toxic Clothing Alternatives (Unlike Your Ex)
Switch to non-toxic basics that support your skin and hormone health. Learn why synthetic underwear, pajamas, T-shirts, activewear and bed sheets are a problem and what to wear instead.
Table of Contents
1. Why your basics matter more than you think
2. Your basics and hormone health
3. The rule I follow in my own wardrobe
4. The Clean Basics List
When I say replace your basics, I mean the clothes that sit against your skin from morning to night, underwear, pajamas, T-shirts, tanks, gym wear, even your bedsheets.
These pieces matter more than anything else in your wardrobe, because they spend the most time touching your body. And depending on the fabric, they can support your health… or quietly irritate your skin, disrupt your hormones, and make you smell worse than you should.
This sounds dramatic, but it’s not. It’s basic fabric science.
Why your basics matter more than you think
Every time you pick up a top or a pair of leggings, check the tag.
If you see polyester, nylon, acrylic, elastane/spandex above 10%, or any “high-performance” claims like stain-resistant, wrinkle-free, anti-odor, or waterproof, you’re dealing with plastic (unless stated otherwise).
Plastic fabrics trap bacteria on your skin. They also shed microplastics with chemical additives.
Some of which are linked to endocrine disruption according to recent research, including the study published in Materials (MDPI, 2024) that I keep going back to because it explains how certain textile coatings and synthetic fibers can influence the body’s natural hormonal system.
When these fibers rub against your body all day, especially in warm areas with moisture (hello underwear and sports bras), you’re basically creating the perfect place for irritation, breakouts, yeast imbalance, and odor buildup.
And yes, this also affects how you smell.
Many people blame deodorant, sweat, or food… but the real issue sits in their wardrobe.
Your basics and hormone health
Women often experience bloating, stronger body odor before periods, rashes around the chest and inner thighs, and breakouts on the back and shoulders.
Many don’t realise how much fabric plays a role.
Synthetic underwear and tight activewear create friction and heat.
That combination affects your skin microbiome. Your microbiome influences everything from odor to inflammation to hormonal balance.
The MDPI study mentioned earlier highlights the concern that certain textile chemicals, especially when released through friction, sweat, and heat, can contribute to hormonal disruption. And we’re wearing these things every single day.
Most women are doing everything right in diet, skincare, sleep…but then sit in polyester leggings for 12 hours straight.
Switching to clean, natural fabrics is one of the easiest ways to support your hormones without buying 50 supplements.
Inside the paywalled section you’ll find:
1. Underwear – clean, breathable, low-impact options
Swiss, EU, and UK/US brands with organic cotton, silk, or TENCEL.
2. Pajamas & Loungewear – natural fibers only
Lightweight, soft, cosy options for all budgets.
3. T-Shirts & Tanks – wardrobe-building pieces
Classic fits, no synthetics, clean dyes.
4. Activewear – natural performance fabrics
Non-synthetic or ultra-low-synthetic options for gym, Pilates, and yoga.
5. Sheets & Sleep Essentials
Clean bedding swaps that don’t affect your skin or hormones.
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