Where To Find Organic & Non-Toxic Leggings In 2025

Why are PFAS so dangerous in leggings?

Here’s where it gets tricky. PFAS don’t just sit on your clothes – it can actually enter your body through:

• Skin Absorption: Recent research shows PFAS can be absorbed directly through your skin into your bloodstream. Sweating during exercise might even increase absorption as your pores open up.
• Inhalation: When you’re huffing and puffing during your workout, you might be breathing in volatile PFAS compounds.
• Prolonged Contact: Workout clothes hug your body for extended periods, increasing potential absorption.

Over time, regularly wearing leggings that contain PFAS can lead to cumulative exposure and bioaccumulation in your body.

This buildup has been linked to serious health issues, including immune system suppression, metabolic problems, and even increased cancer risks. But PFAS aren’t the only hidden toxic chemicals found in your leggings that can mess with your health. 

What other toxic chemicals are hiding in leggings?

• Polyester: Polyester is a popular choice for leggings since it’s lightweight, durable, and good for moisture-wicking. However, this synthetic material is primarily derived from petroleum and can release microplastics during washing, which can be inhaled and potentially cause respiratory issues. 

Polyester may also contain phthalates, a type of plasticizer used to improve flexibility, which can lead to skin irritation.

• Nylon: Similar to polyester, nylon is a synthetic material derived from petroleum. It offers durability, lightweight properties, and moisture-wicking capabilities, making it a common choice for activewear. 

However, nylon can also release microplastics and may contain phthalates and formaldehyde, a chemical used as a finishing agent. These chemicals can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

• Spandex/Lycra: Spandex, also known as Lycra, is a synthetic fiber often made from polyurethane. It provides exceptional elasticity and a snug fit, which is why it’s frequently used to make leggings. 

However, spandex can contain chemicals like phthalates that may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. It can also trap heat and moisture, potentially promoting bacterial growth if not properly cared for. *Check out our note here on spandex recommendations

• Rayon: Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber derived from cellulose. While it offers softness and good absorbency the manufacturing process often involves harmful chemicals, such as carbon disulfide. 

These chemicals can be released into the environment and pose health risks, including respiratory problems, liver damage, and neurological disorders, if absorbed through the skin or inhaled.

• Bamboo Fabric (Chemically Processed): Although bamboo itself is a renewable resource and offers good absorbency, the process of turning bamboo into fabric often involves harsh chemical treatments. 

One common chemical used in this process is formaldehyde, which can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues. It’s important to note that not all bamboo fabrics are created equal – some undergo more eco-friendly production methods, so it’s crucial to research the specific brand and manufacturing process.

• Inorganic Cotton Blends: Cotton is a natural, soft, breathable, and absorbent material. However, when blended with synthetic fibers or sourced from non-organic farms, cotton can be problematic. 

Inorganic cotton is often treated with pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals during cultivation, which can leave residues on the fibers. Additionally, cotton blends may contain PFCs (perfluorinated chemicals) to make them water-repellent, which have been linked to various health concerns, including immune system suppression, hormonal disruption, and increased cancer risks. 

What should I look for in non-toxic leggings?

Non-toxic leggings are made from natural, minimally processed fibers and aim to use a high percentage of organic materials. 

By using organic materials, non-toxic leggings steer clear of pesticides, PFAS, formaldehyde, and other potentially hazardous chemicals in their fabrics and dyes. 

Despite being made mostly from cotton, non-toxic leggings are designed to be breathable and moisture-wicking, offering similar performance benefits to conventional options made from synthetic materials. 

Organic Cotton (Primary Material) 

When it comes to non-toxic leggings, organic cotton should be your go-to material. Unlike conventional cotton, which is heavily treated with pesticides and chemicals, organic cotton is grown without the use of these toxic chemicals. 

This means that your skin is less likely to be exposed to irritants and toxins while wearing your leggings. Plus, organic cotton is naturally breathable and soft, ensuring optimal comfort during exercise.

Small Percentages Synthetic Stretch Materials

Before we dive into our top picks for non-toxic leggings, we want to make an important note regarding our selections. While we believe that 100% certified organic cotton is the safest base material for leggings, it doesn’t always provide the stretch, support, and moisture-wicking properties we’ve come to expect.

For this reason, many eco-conscious brands will incorporate small percentages of generally safe stretch materials like TENCEL (Lyocell) or spandex/elastane. 

At TFC, we generally don’t like to recommend synthetic materials since synthetic fibers are often treated with toxic chemicals and the health risks associated with long-term exposure are still being studied. 

However, when it comes to leggings, oftentimes a small percentage of these synthetic fibers is unavoidable. Always be sure to check that the content of these synthetic materials is minimal and that the brand is transparent about its production processes. So with that in mind, let’s get into our favorite non-toxic leggings! 

What are the advantages of wearing non-toxic leggings?

Health Advantages

• Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: One of the most significant benefits of non-toxic leggings is that they minimize your exposure to dangerous chemicals, such as phthalates, formaldehyde, and PFCs. 
• Better Skin Health: Non-toxic leggings are gentler on your skin, as they’re less likely to cause irritation, rashes, or allergic reactions. Natural fibers like organic cotton are soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making them ideal for sensitive skin. 
• Improved Comfort: Organic, natural materials tend to be more comfortable than wearing synthetic fabrics. They allow your skin to breathe, reducing excessive sweating. Non-toxic leggings are also less likely to chafe.
• Better Breathability: Organic cotton is inherently more breathable, allowing air to circulate freely and helping to regulate your body temperature during exercise. You’ll feel less stuffy and overheated while you wear them.

Environmental Benefits

• Reduced Microplastic Pollution: Activewear is a significant source of microplastic pollution since it releases tiny plastic fibers into the water supply every time they’re washed. Choosing clothing made from natural, biodegradable materials helps to reduce the amount of microplastics entering our oceans and waterways.
• Biodegradable Materials: Most non-toxic leggings are made from biodegradable materials that break down naturally in the environment so they reduce the amount of waste going to our landfills and they don’t leave behind harmful residues that can further contaminate the environment. 
• Sustainable Materials: Sustainable materials used in non-toxic leggings are grown in a way that minimizes environmental impact, by reducing water consumption, avoiding pesticides, and using closed-loop production systems. 
• Reduced Chemical Use: The production of non-toxic workout clothes involves fewer harmful chemicals, fewer pesticides, and fewer synthetic fertilizers, which means less environmental pollution.

What certifications should I look for in non-toxic leggings?

• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): The Global Organic Textile Standard is one of the most rigorous certifications for organic textiles. It ensures that at least 95% of the fibers in the product are organic and that the entire production process follows strict ecological and social criteria. 
• OCS (Organic Content Standard): Similar to GOTS, the Organic Content Standard focuses on verifying the organic content of a product. However, it doesn’t have the same stringent requirements for social and environmental responsibility throughout the supply chain. While OCS is still a good certification to look for, GOTS provides a more comprehensive assurance of sustainability and ethical production.
• OEKO-TEX: The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification guarantees that every component of a garment, from the threads to the buttons, has been tested for harmful substances and is safe for human use. 
• Fair Trade Certified: When a product is Fair Trade Certified, it means that it was produced under fair labor conditions, with workers receiving fair wages and safe working environments. By choosing Fair Trade Certified workout clothes, you’re supporting ethical production practices and ensuring that the people who make your clothes are treated with respect and dignity.

What’s the best way to care for my non-toxic leggings?

• Wash Them Separately: This helps prevent color transfer and reduces wear and tear on the delicate fibers.
• Use Cold Water: Cold water helps preserve the elasticity of the fabric and prevents shrinkage.   
• Use a Gentle Detergent: Choose a detergent that is free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. 
• Air Dry or Tumble Dry on Low Heat: Air drying is the gentlest option, but you can also tumble dry on low heat if needed.   
• Avoid Using Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can build up on the fabric and make it less breathable.   
• Spot Clean Stains as Soon as Possible: This will help prevent the stain from setting in.

Can non-toxic leggings help with body odor?

Yes, non-toxic leggings can help with body odor! Here’s how: 

• Natural Materials: Many non-toxic materials, such as bamboo, merino wool, and cotton, have natural odor-resistant properties. These materials can help absorb and neutralize sweat, reducing odor-causing bacteria.
• Reduced Chemical Exposure: Some synthetic materials can contain chemicals that promote bacterial growth and contribute to body odor. Non-toxic leggings are less likely to contain these harmful chemicals, reducing the risk of odor.
• Improved Breathability: Non-toxic materials are often more breathable, allowing sweat to evaporate more quickly and reducing the buildup of moisture that can lead to odor.