What's Behind a Non-Iron Shirt

Why pick up an iron in the first place?

It’s a question you may have asked yourself when looking at shirts labeled “non-iron” in a store or online. After all, ironing is a chore. Cutting it out of your busy day by selecting a shirt that doesn’t require it sounds like a winning proposition.

Unfortunately, there is a catch. Many products labeled non-iron are treated with formaldehyde, which hold the garment’s fibers in place during the washing process. Formaldehyde is best known as the chemical used in the embalming process (gross, we know).

While it’s perfectly legal to use a certain amount of formaldehyde in these products, exposure to the chemical can cause some people to develop blisters or a rash. And even if you don’t have an adverse reaction, it’s still not something you want next to your skin—particularly as much of it is made overseas, out of regulatory oversight.

However, that’s not to say that non-iron can’t be done cleanly. We’ve recently introduced our own line of non-iron shirts made without harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. The’ve been tested according to the Oeko-Tex® Standard 100, an independent measure that certifies textile makers around the globe based on the use of chemicals and environmental impact.   

So you can still give the iron a rest—without making your skin pay the price.