What You Wear Matters.
Choose Cotton.

The natural choice to protect your family and y[our] home.
3D illustration of a human heart composed of numerous small white spheres against a black background.
The Hidden Truth: Check the Tag.
An inside look at how hidden fibers enter your body, and how checking the label can protect you.
00:30s
Close-up of white cotton fibers with overlay text 'What you wear matters' and a cotton plant icon.
The Invisible Invasion: Microplastics
Our opening film exposing how microplastics shed from synthetic clothes can travel through the body and affect the brain.
00:43s
Your Clothes and Your Health
Decoding the Fabric Tag
The Difference: Synthetic vs. Cotton
Wear Your SleevE
Cloud Your Mind
Catch Your Breath

Live and Breathe Fashion.

We’re surrounded by synthetic materials and clothes, but the reality of how they are made is far from comfortable.
You carefully choose what goes into your body – from the food you eat to the water you drink. But have you considered the impact of what's on your body? Fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex make up most of our clothing. These synthetics are derived from fossil fuels, essentially making them plastic.
0%
of global fabric production is synthetic.

Synthetic Clothes. Real Consequences.

Every time synthetic clothes are washed and worn, tiny fragments called microplastics break away. These microscopic particles never disappear. They enter our waterways, our soil, and become airborne, finding their way into our bodies. It is estimated that we inhale or ingest anywhere from 74,000 to 121,000 microplastic particles per year.

You can actively reduce the microplastic footprint in your home by choosing natural fibers. Taking control of your wardrobe is a tangible step towards lessening you and your family's exposure to toxic particles.

Research into the full health implications is still ongoing. The full effect of plastic particles inside us is still unknown.

Download the Fact Sheets.

Clothing tag on maroon fabric reading 'Plant or Plastic? The Simple Health Choice Hidden on Your Clothing Tag' with 'What you wear matters' and a cotton icon.
The Tag Truth: The Health Choice That Often Goes Unread
Nov ‘25

Discover why the most important label isn’t in your pantry, it’s in your closet. Our fact sheet reveals how synthetic fabrics shed harmful microplastics into the air you breathe and the water you use. Learn how choosing cotton can help protect your family’s health and the planet.

DOWNLOAD PDF
Two people embracing, one wearing a white shirt and blue jeans, with overlapping arms in close-up view.
The Hidden Truth: What’s Really in Your Wardrobe
Sept ‘25

Discover the hidden truth about what’s in your wardrobe. This fact sheet reveals how synthetic fabrics shed microplastics into the air, water, and even our bodies — and how choosing natural fibers like cotton can help protect your health and the environment. Learn why it’s time to choose plant, not plastic.

DOWNLOAD PDF

Cleaner, Softer, Safer.

It's a fundamental “plant, not plastic” decision that supports your family's well-being and a healthier planet.
Cotton has been a staple in textiles for thousands of years. It's a natural fiber so comes from the earth and can return to it, without contributing to plastic pollution. It’s the fabric that breathes with you, keeping you cool and comfortable in your own skin.
Plant-Based
Derived from nature, not fossil fuels.
Biodegradable
Decomposes naturally, leaving no plastic residue.
Breathable & Comfortable
Offers natural comfort and supports skin health.
Durable
A long-lasting and reliable choice.
Reduces
Microplastic Shedding
Lessens environmental and personal exposure.
Check the Label.
Making a difference begins with a simple, conscious habit: checking the label. Before you purchase, take a moment to look at the label. Prioritize "100% Cotton" or blends with a high percentage of cotton. A small check makes a big difference to help you regain control over your health.

Read our updates

Your Wardrobe and Wellness
Dec’ 25

This article reveals how synthetic garments shed microplastics that can even be found inside our bodies, with emerging research exploring potential links to health concerns. Learn simple steps you can take to reduce your exposure and discover how choosing natural cotton can protect your health.

DOWNLOAD PDF
The Tag Truth: The Health Choice That Often Goes Unread
Nov’ 25

Discover why the most important label isn’t in your pantry, it’s in your closet. Our fact sheet reveals how synthetic fabrics shed harmful microplastics into the air you breathe and the water you use. Learn how choosing cotton can help protect your family’s health and the planet.

The Hidden Truth: What’s Really in Your Wardrobe
Sept’ 25

Discover the hidden truth about what’s in your wardrobe. This fact sheet reveals how synthetic fabrics shed microplastics into the air, water, and even our bodies — and how choosing natural fibers like cotton can help protect your health and the environment. Learn why it’s time to choose plant, not plastic.

DOWNLOAD PDF
Press Release
Jun’ 25

The National Cotton Council is proud to announce the launch of our “Plant not plastic” campaign through this official press release. This initiative raises awareness about the hidden microplastics in synthetic clothing and their impact on human health — empowering consumers to choose natural fibers like cotton for a healthier body and planet.

Plant Not Plastic: A Healthier Future.

Join a growing community of individuals who understand that what we wear matters. It's about making thoughtful choices that contribute to a healthier home, a safer environment, and a cleaner way of living.