Clothes To Die For? Alexa Fahlman Collingwood School Floor Location: J9H

“Clothes to Die For?” focuses on the detection of formaldehyde resins in clothing textiles. Formaldehyde resins are used on clothing to give them a permanent press, stain resistant, shrink-proof or waterproof finish which are characteristics that appeal to the average consumer who is looking for clothing requiring the least amount of effort to maintain or is looking for clothing with protective finishes. The problem with these resins is that they can cause allergic contact dermatitis in some individuals. For those people whose occupation involves applying these types of finishes to the clothing, they are at greater risk for developing adverse health problems such as various types of cancer and respiratory problems.

In my hypothesis I stated, formaldehyde resins would be found in some 100% cotton and cotton polyester blend garments and garments labeled “permanent press” or “waterproof”. Studies have indicated that formaldehyde resins are commonly used on these textiles because they are effective in strengthening the hydrogen bonds in cellulose polymers which become weakened when exposed to moisture. When the bonds are weakened wrinkling or shrinkage develops.

To test my hypothesis, sixteen samples of textiles were purchased and tested. Using EMQUANT formaldehyde test strips, which can measure levels from 0 - 100 ppm , any amount of resins present in the textiles were determined by comparing the resulting colour on the test strip to the colour found on the reference chart. My test results indicated levels from 0 - 10 ppm. These amounts are not considered to be enough to cause an allergic reaction in individuals. Some scientific studies say it is rare for people who are sensitive to have reactions to formaldehyde in amounts less than 100 ppm. However, the limits set by some countries indicate there should be less than 30 - 20 ppm in textiles worn by infants and babies and set limits of 100 ppm or less in clothing with direct skin contact in adults. Currently there are no laws in Canada which state the maximum amount of formaldehyde that can be used to treat clothing. Instead companies operate with the understanding that what they sell should be safe.

While the levels detected in my samples were not enough to pose a health risk to most people, it is important because in today’s society where people are more health conscious and concerned about the impact of their choices on their health and environment, they should be aware and educated about what types of chemicals are being used to treat the clothing they wear or what their infants and children wear so that they can make informed decisions.