11 Best Non-Toxic Underwear Brands Of 2024

What makes underwear “non-toxic”?

So, what’s the deal with “non-toxic” underwear? Simply put, it’s underwear that’s free from harmful chemicals (such as PFAS, VOC’s, chloromethane, phthalates, Chlorine Bleach, pesticides, AZO dyes, and so much more) and synthetic materials. Think of it as a protective shield for your most sensitive parts. 

Key characteristics of non-toxic underwear include:

• Natural, breathable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, or silk.
• Toxin-free dyes and finishes that are friendly to your skin.
• Production methods that are sustainable and result in healthier end products.

Why is choosing non-toxic underwear so important? 

To maintain optimal vaginal health, it’s important to choose the right underwear. 

Conventional underwear contains a lot of hidden chemicals you probably aren’t aware of, everything from PFAS to pesticides, to toxic dyes. Your lady parts are highly absorbent, which means the skin easily absorbs these toxins.

These unwanted harsh chemicals in your underwear can cause irritation, and allergies, and even interfere with your hormones. Kind of scary right?

Since your vagina is self-cleaning, proper ventilation is key to maintaining vaginal health. Synthetic fabrics trap moisture and contain harmful chemicals that can disrupt your vagina’s natural pH balance. All of this combined can increase the risk of vaginal and uterine infections. 

This is why doctors and sexual health experts agree that underwear made from 100% natural fibers, preferably organic, is the best choice for vaginal health.

What safe materials should I look for in non-toxic underwear?

Organic Cotton

Organic cotton is grown without those pesky synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and is one of the best materials to look for when shopping for non-toxic underwear. Plus, it’s breathable and hypoallergenic.

Hemp

Hemp is another great option when looking for non-toxic natural underwear. This wonder material is strong, durable, and naturally resistant to bacteria. 

Hemp also requires little to no pesticides to grow, so you can feel confident knowing there are no toxic pesticides near your most sensitive parts. 

Silk

Feeling fancy? Slip into some silk! This natural protein fiber is not only luxuriously soft but also hypoallergenic and temperature-regulating. It’s 100% natural and 100% non-toxic. 

Silk is great for warmer months when you need something breathable and lightweight. 

“Eco-friendly” Materials To Be Wary Of

Clothing manufacturers are getting clever and marketing new synthetic materials as “eco-friendly.” 

However, while these materials may be better for the environment, they aren’t necessarily better for your health. Many of these new synthetic blends can be just as toxic as nylon, rayon, and polyester.

Bamboo

Bamboo sounds great on paper – it’s natural, sustainable, and oh-so-soft. But upon a closer look, it may not be as great as it seems. The process of turning bamboo into fabric often involves a chemical bath that might make you cringe. 

If you are going to shop for clothing made from bamboo, look for items labeled as “mechanically processed” or “closed-loop” to avoid these nasty processing chemicals.

Tencel and Elastane

Tencel, elastane, and other similar synthetic blends might look great at first glance, however, synthetic fibers are often treated with toxic chemicals and harsh finishes. 

We generally don’t recommend synthetic materials, even those marketed as eco-friendly, as the long-term health risks are still being studied. 

We believe it’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Stick to natural fibers to keep things truly non-toxic.

What’s the best way to identify truly non-toxic underwear?

Certifications To Look 

• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): Certifies organic fibers and sustainable production processes.
• OEKO-TEX MADE IN GREEN: Combines Oeko-Tex Standard 100 with environmental and social responsibility criteria.
• Bluesign: Focuses on sustainable textile production and worker safety.
• Made Safe: Guarantees products are made without known harmful chemicals.

Avoiding Greenwashing

To make sure you’re buying truly non-toxic underwear, it’s important to be a savvy consumer. Don’t be fooled by vague terms like “eco-friendly” or “natural.” 

We encourage you to do a little research into a brand’s production processes and materials. 

Read reviews, ask questions, and choose companies that are transparent about their practices and have a proven commitment to non-toxic and sustainable production.

What is the best way to care for your non-toxic underwear?

Washing

• Water Temperature: Use cold or warm water. Hot water can shrink cotton and break down the fibers.
• Detergent: Choose a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener.
• Wash Cycle: Use a delicate or normal cycle on your washing machine.
• Separation: Wash your underwear separately from other clothes, especially those with rough fabrics or zippers that could snag the material.   

Drying

• Air-Drying: The best way to dry your underwear is by hanging them to air-dry. This helps to maintain their shape and prevents shrinkage.
• Tumble Drying: If you need to use a dryer, use low heat. High heat can damage the cotton fibers.   

Is non-toxic underwear more expensive?

Yes, non-toxic underwear is generally more expensive than conventional underwear due to several factors:

Materials: Non-toxic underwear is typically made from organic cotton or other sustainable materials that are more costly to produce than conventional cotton, which may be grown with pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Production Processes: Non-toxic underwear production often involves stricter environmental and social standards, which can increase costs. These standards may include fair labor practices, reduced water usage, and the avoidance of harmful chemicals in dyeing and finishing.

Smaller Production Volumes: Many brands producing non-toxic underwear are smaller and have lower production volumes compared to mass-market brands, leading to higher production costs per item.

Certifications: Non-toxic underwear may carry certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) which ensure that the product meets certain environmental and social criteria. Obtaining these certifications can add to the cost.

How often should I replace my non-toxic underwear?

There’s no hard and fast rule for how often to replace non-toxic underwear, as it depends on several factors, including:

• Frequency of Wear: If you wear a particular pair frequently, it will naturally wear out faster than the one you wear less often.
• Care Practices: Proper care, like gentle washing and air drying, can extend the lifespan of your underwear.   
• Material Quality: Higher quality materials tend to last longer than cheaper ones.
• Personal Preference: Some people prefer to replace their underwear more frequently for hygiene reasons or simply to refresh their wardrobe.

General Guidelines

• Replace When Worn Out: Look for signs of wear and tear, like holes, fraying elastic, or loss of shape. If the underwear is no longer comfortable or supportive, it’s time for a replacement.
• Consider Replacing Every 6-12 Months: Even if there are no visible signs of wear, it’s a good idea to replace your underwear every 6-12 months to ensure good hygiene.
• Replace More Frequently For Certain Types: Thongs and other delicate styles may need to be replaced more often due to their construction and the stress they undergo.