BPA in Activewear: Why It Doesn’t Wash Out and Why Natural Fibers Matter
Synthetic workout clothing is designed for performance, but many people don’t realize it can also contain chemical additives that don’t disappear with washing. One of the most common is BPA (bisphenol A), a plastic-associated chemical increasingly found in activewear.
Because activewear is worn tightly against the skin during sweat-heavy activity, understanding fabric chemistry matters.
What is BPA?
BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical used in the production of plastics. It has been widely studied for its ability to interact with the body’s hormone systems.
In clothing, BPA can be present in: Polyester, Nylon and recycled synthetic fibers. These materials are all plastic-based, meaning BPA or similar compounds can be introduced during manufacturing or recycling processes.
Why BPA is used in synthetic activewear
Synthetic fibers dominate the activewear market because they are: stretchy, lightweight, low-cost to manufacture, and are easy to treat for moisture-wicking and odor control
However, achieving these properties often requires chemical processing and additives, some of which are designed to be long-lasting.
Does BPA wash out of clothing?
A common assumption is that washing removes harmful substances from fabric. In reality, **BPA does not reliably wash out of synthetic activewear**.
This is because:
- BPA can be embedded within the plastic fiber itself
- Washing removes surface residue, not chemicals bonded into synthetic materials
- Heat, friction, and sweat can increase chemical release over time
As a result, BPA may remain present for the entire lifespan of the garment even after repeated laundering.
Other chemicals commonly found in synthetic workout clothes
BPA is only one of several substances used in synthetic activewear. Others include:
- PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often added for moisture-wicking or stain resistance
- Antimicrobial treatments intended to reduce odor and make fabric quick-dry
- Azo dyes and finishing agents used for color stability and softness
These chemicals are chosen specifically because they are durable — meaning they are designed to withstand washing, sweat, and wear.
Why chemical durability matters
Skin is the body’s largest organ. During exercise, body temperature increases, pores open and sweat increases skin permeability. When tight-fitting synthetic clothing is worn for extended periods, it can create conditions where ongoing skin exposure is more likely.
Understanding this exposure is not about alarm — it’s about transparency and informed decision-making.
How natural fiber activewear is different
Natural fibers like TENCEL are fundamentally different from synthetic fabrics.
Key differences include:
- They are not plastic-based
- They do not rely on BPA or similar plastic additives
- They typically require fewer chemical treatments
- Residues are more likely to wash out completely over time
Rather than trapping additives inside plastic fibers, natural fabrics start with simpler material inputs.
Can natural fibers perform like synthetics?
Yes. Well-designed natural-fiber activewear can offer: breathability, moisture regulation, comfort against the skin, and durability for regular training. Performance does not require plastic-based materials or persistent chemical finishes!
A higher standard for activewear
Reprise prioritizes natural fibers because what touches the skin every day should meet a higher standard.
The goal is performance without unnecessary chemical exposure — and transparency about what goes into every garment.
Key takeaways
- Synthetic activewear is made from plastic-based fibers
- BPA and other chemicals can be present for a long time in these materials
- These substances do not reliably wash out over time
- Natural fiber activewear like ours made from TENCEL offers a cleaner alternative with fewer persistent additives
