We absorb many of the toxins in our environment through our skin.  For example, most chlorine exposure comes not from drinking water, but from our skin while bathing. The same goes for clothing.  You're absorbing sizing, chlorine and other chemicals that irritate your lungs, cause breathing difficulties including allergies and asthma, and may even be carcinogenic--cancer causing chemicals.

Ever see a product reviews that mentions strong "smell?" This comes from the chemicals used to protect the fabric, usually sizing and stain protectors.  You may smell the same thing when you go into a clothing store.  Sizing is added to prevent wrinkles and hold the shape of everything fabric from clothes to bedding.  It generally out-gasses or dissipates in one to 12 months and can frequently be removed by laundering.

I'm all about "guilt-free" green.  The last thing we need is more stuff to worry about--global warming, rising gas prices, insurance costs and unemployment, and the fast pace of day-to-day life is enough.  Easygoing green can protect you from toxins for you and the planet.  I list a few below and more on my "Gracious Green" blog. 

• Buy "Pre-worn" and private seller items from places like eBay.  They will have had time out of a store to outgas.
• Look for organic cotton fabric, it is free of bleaches and chlorine.  I'm not recommending you go granola and only wear hemp, just do it when it's easy.  Start noticing your choices.
• Buy natural fabrics like silk, it's less likely to have harsh, toxic chemicals and your skin can BREATHE through the material.
• Avoid "dry clean only" fabrics that you cannot hand wash to remove sizing or that will require carcinogenic dry cleaning fluid care.
• Leave new luggage, nylon, place mats and other fabric items in the garage, covered porch, or attic to outgas before bringing them indoors.  The EPA reports 90% of indoor air is polluted, much of it worse than outdoors.  It gets that way, in part, from toxins you bring in like chemical treated fabrics.