Are there phthalates in low-friction laundry coatings on athletic wear?
The coatings change how much microplastic clothes shed in the wash, and they release more particles.
What's actually in it
Many high-performance and athletic clothes use synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. Some are coated with low-friction treatments that smooth the fiber surface. The coatings make clothes feel slick, but they also change how the fabric behaves in the washer.
What the research says
A 2026 study in ACS Environ Au washed coated and uncoated synthetic textiles together. The coated items shed more microplastic fibers, and the uncoated items picked up more shedding from their washing partners. Mixing fabrics in a load can spread the problem.
Cotton, linen, hemp, and wool clothes don't shed plastic at all. For workout gear where synthetic fibers are hard to avoid, use a Guppyfriend bag or a Cora Ball in the washer to catch fibers. Wash full loads in cold water on a gentle cycle. Skip the dryer when you can. Less heat means less fiber breakdown.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| How Low-Friction Coatings Affect Microplastic Fiber Release When Laundering Coated and Uncoated Textiles Together | ACS Environ Au | 2026 |
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