Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced on Oct. 6 an investigation into major children's clothing brands over the possible presence of toxic chemicals in materials used in children's undergarments. His office issued Civil Investigative Demands to Hanes and Fruit of the Loom.
The release says cheaper synthetic fabrics such as polyester, rayon and spandex can involve plastic-derived materials or chemical-heavy manufacturing. It says synthetic fabrics can shed microplastics, and that chemicals such as bisphenols, phthalates, PFAS and parabens used in textile manufacturing have been associated with endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer and other health concerns.
Those statements describe research and concerns cited by the attorney general's office. The release does not say any product tested positive, does not allege that either company broke the law, and does not include a response from Hanes or Fruit of the Loom. A civil investigative demand is a request for documents and information, not a finding or a lawsuit.
Paxton said he wants to make sure children's necessities do not contain harmful materials. Parents who want to reduce exposure can check care labels and brand statements about testing, but nothing in the announcement tells shoppers to stop buying a product or to seek a refund.