Shein, Aliexpress, Zaful Haul: Toxic Chemicals Found In Some Clothes (Marketplace)
- Posted on 02 October, 2021
- T Part Wig
- By Anonymous
Shopping for new clothes? We're testing clothing from some of the world’s biggest fast-fashion retailers for toxic metals and chemicals. We found products that could put your health at risk.
To read more: https://www.cbc.ca/1.6193385
#FastFashion #Shopping #CBCMarketplace
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[ ♪♪♪ ] [ Charlsie ], Something stinks. Terrible smell. I had to let it sit in the bathroom for a little while., [ Charlsie ], What's really lurking on those new clothes, It's awful That wouldn't even cross my mind in a million years., [ Charlsie ] Out of the bag and into the lab.. This is a dangerous piece of clothing. [, Charlsie, ], Ultra-fast fashion giants put to the test.. Why Miriam are companies still using these chemicals? It'S cheap.! Why do we let this stuff in? Why are we not making it here, [, Charlsie ]? This is your Marketplace. [ ♪♪♪ ]. This is cute. Hooded, raincoat, waterproof., [, Charlsie ] We're hunting for deals online.. Oh my bathing suit's on sale for $ 11. [ Charlsie ], The clothes are cheap, but what's the real cost? We'Re about to show you just how toxic some of these deals can be. We're ordering dozens of items, including clothes for my toddler and me., And the stakes for me just got bigger. The maternity PJ set and maternity denim shirt Ships from China.. Let'S go through the cart. [ Charlsie ] We're taking our haul to the University of Toronto.. Oh my gosh you've been shopping, We sure have., [, Charlsie, ], Environmental, chemist, Miriam Diamond and her team will test these clothes for chemicals.. We'Re going to look for heavy metals. Phthalates, PFAs. Yes., [, Charlsie, ], P-f-a-s or `` pee-fass'', and phthalates are man-made and just like heavy metals, many can be toxic in some quantities.. What would you see if you are affected by these chemicals or these ingredients? It'S not like. I was exposed to a poison and then in the next couple of hours I get really sick.. It'S not that kind of immediate connection.. Maybe you were exposed as a fetus, and maybe the manifestation is an alteration to the male reproductive system decrease in IQ, level., [, Charlsie ]. They get right to work on our brand-new right out of the box clothes from some of the world's biggest ultra-fast fashion. Brands. 164.6 grams. Country of manufacture was China.. Raincoat. We've got a few raincoats. [ Charlsie ]. Our results will be ready soon, but first ... [, ♪♪♪, ], So much stuff. On here.. I found a shirt you might like.. Would you buy that [ Charlsie, ], Camila Diaz and her friend check out Shein every single day. They get lured in by ads like this. Hi, everyone welcome back to our Instagram live series where we interview our Shein X, Designers., [, Charlsie ] And the celebrities that Promote them., ♪ You're, going to hear me: roar, ♪♪, [, Charlsie, ], Ultra-fast fashion sites, churn out hundreds of styles daily.. Are you buying like a new thing every day, I'll be looking every day.? If she had a way she would be buying every day. But no.? I was literally looking over my order this morning and I was like `` yes, yes'', [ Charlsie ], The fast fashion industry makes billions annually in sales. Today, I'm back with a mini haul., [ Charlsie ], And they do it by selling clothes for a few dollars.. These are some of the best jeans from Shein. [ Charlsie ] Shoes under 10 bucks. [ man ] Only nine dollars.. I believe I got this for only 10 or 15 dollars. Super inexpensive., [, Charlsie, ] Mom, Linda, is skeptical. Very skeptical.. Camila came to me and she says: oh, I found all these great swimsuits and they're like dirt. Cheap. [, Charlsie ], When their Shein haul finally arrives .... It wasn't, I would say, the best quality, and so there was a bit of an ``. I told you''. So moment. Not --, Not --, not good. The first time. -Not good. -Okay, let's see. The actual fabric, was like way too thin., [, Charlsie, ] And Camila's, not alone.. This waistband is just weird. [ Charlsie ]. There are lots of people who don't get what they expect., I'm so upset.. What are those Granny panties? I want my money, back. ♪. Do I look good in this ♪♪ ♪? Do I look good in this ♪♪ [ Charlsie ]? So what about our stuff? These are supposed to be an adult medium.. I don't know who those would fit. Not my particular flavour, but my nephew would love this. [ Charlsie ]. We need a pro to give us the scoop on our ultra-fast fashion, picks. [, Lesley ]. My name is Lesley. Hampton and I'm an Indigenous artist and designer. [, Charlsie ] And winner of the Fashion Impact Award. International mega-stars, like Lizzo, wear her threads. [ ♪♪♪ ]. This is a whole pile of stuff that we ordered from a number of different websites., [ Charlsie ]. First up these $ 8 shorts from Zaful.. This is new. Coming to you, [ Charlsie ]. It'S got holes in it, So they ran it through the machine like with no thread in it. [ Charlsie ] Next check out these leggings from AliExpress for about 15 bucks.. Not the size, we were expecting. If I was a medium and I received these I'd be really disappointed.. [ Charlsie, ] Next., This Shein kids coat listed for twenty-six bucks. [ Charlsie ]. You can pull it apart. Already. Threads will come out of it.. So the best way to fix that would be to maybe have a rolled hem, which again would take more time to do or even a lining., -Okay., [, Charlsie, ] Lesley calls out lots of misses, including this $ 15 buy from AliExpress.. They should have back stitching. So you go back and forth, so it locks in the stitching, whereas this I feel like I could just pull and start to unravel. [ Charlsie ] And these Boohoo workout leggings for about 35 dollars., Very thin.. When you just held that up, I felt like I could see right through it. -Yeah, so ... ..depending on how public you want to be when you're working, out., [ Charlsie ] A similar issue with this 24-dollar Fashion Nova track suit.. This is very lightweight.. It is a little see through yeah.. I can see through. [ Charlsie ], But the biggest fail for Lesley This raincoat for thirteen dollars from AliExpress.. Oh look, there's a hole in it Like there's a full hole because they didn't stitch it up. [, Charlsie ]. According to Lesley, almost half of the products we bought were definitely not as advertised.. I definitely think as consumers we have to slow down and really think about where our clothing is coming: from., [, Charlsie, ] And now it's time to learn. What'S really in our clothing., Our lab results are in.. First up this cute little bag from Shein.. It reminds the Diaz family of their Shein buy.. It came and it smelled awful.. This one was like -- [, Charlsie ], It smelled awful., -Terrible smell.. I had to let it sit in the bathroom for a little while.. Do you want to feel it? Does it feel at all like your belt? It'S definitely similar. Material. Yeah, definitely similar yeah.. So this little red purse should not be allowed.. [ Charlsie ], Miriam Diamond says it's not just the smell., It's toxic.. This is Health. Canada'S limit for lead in children's products.. Our little red purse is five times more than that. Limit.. The harm will continue over time, particularly as this little red purse deteriorates.. But let's think even broader. Somebody made this little red purse.. Can you imagine It's leaving a little trail of lead everywhere it goes. -Exactly. -Wow.. What do you guys think about that? That'S --! That'S like an insane amount.! May I Can. I see That has five times the amount of lead that's allowed in a kids', product. -Really -I'm gon na take that one back. [ man ]. It'S not safe. [ man ]. Where would the strap go In your mouth. [ Charlsie ] In her mouth right? Would you want her to be wearing this every day playing with this everyday -No, not at all., [, Charlsie, ] And there's more.? Remember this AliExpress raincoat with the hole? That'S not the only issue. The lab tests detect high levels of PFAs.. All of them are forever chemicals.. The harmful effects include a range of effects: everything from increasing obesity to impairing immune function, to different types of cancers to even diabetes.. Is there something else They do not have to be used to make our clothes. There are alternatives.. Remember we did not have PFAs in our rain gear before the past 30 years and somehow we managed to stay dry and survive.. The substance used to make this water repellent --, Yeah. --, was flagged to us by experts concerning levels in a raincoat. Wow. And everybody needs a raincoat. [ Charlsie ] PFAs are called `` forever chemicals'' They build up in our bodies and over time can show up. In our blood and urine. That wouldn't even cross my mind in a million years., It's awful. - It definitely is concerning the things that are not disclosed., We're giving our kids a legacy of contaminated drinking water. Because of today's raincoat. Can I calculate that cost into the future? Very difficult, but I can assure you it's not covered by $ 13. [ Charlsie ]. In fact, research shows these forever. Chemicals are polluting our oceans and drinking water and they never break down.. I don't know why. There'S not more testing or higher standards being held for things. [, Charlsie ], Don't go away and don't buy anything. More lab reveals.. I am so alarmed [ Charlsie ] Searching for answers from fast fashion. Giants., Your Marketplace gets action, Get more Marketplace. Sign up for our weekly newsletter at cbc.ca/marketplace., [, Charlsie ]. This is your Marketplace.. This dress has to be my favourite. Cute little romper.. I did not think it would. Look this nice, like in person., [, Charlsie ]. We love our fast fashion, deals. They kill it. Would you guys ever use this? I would buy it for my niece.. What do you think it is that's driving people to this stuff, The price for sure., It's the price. [ Charlsie ], But what's the real cost of these cheap buys? Our lab tests reveal shocking levels of toxic chemicals in our clothes., I'm so alarmed.. I am so alarmed. We're buying what looks cute and fashionable on this incredibly short fashion. Cycle.. That cost is not worth it. [ Charlsie ]. This was a $ 13 bag. We bought from Zaful.. How troubled were you by what we found on that? We found elevated levels of a bunch of different phthalates.. The phthalates are used as a plasticizer, because you see it's flexible. I know the phthalates are endocrine disruptors., Endocrine disruptors are a wide range of chemicals that have the ability to alter our hormone levels. Hormones. In turn, control a whole bunch of different aspects of our physiology.. The phthalates in particular, are known to disrupt male reproductive system.. These things can mess with your hormones, in particular for men in your reproductive system.. That sounds awful. Yeah like it would have never even crossed my mind until you just said: that. [, Charlsie ]. We share our findings with Health, Canada and ask for an on-camera interview.. They say no, but we're going to keep trying. Because Miriam keeps finding toxic chemicals in our samples.. I know that people who hear this are going to go `` What ?'' People should be shocked.. That should be the response.. What are these chemicals doing? In my clothes? [ Charlsie ], Like in this kids, coat from Shein.. I think this trench coat is hazardous. Waste., [, Charlsie ], The level of lead is almost twenty times higher than what's allowed in kids' products. 20 times 20 times. The amount of lead that's allowed in a children's product. Like how often you see a kid chewing on their. You know: collar. [, Charlsie, ] And our skin can absorb it. Too.. We cover eighty-five percent of our body with clothing. Just about all the time. Skin is a very active organ.. It'S shocking! You would never know. [ Charlsie ]. Next up this AliExpress bib. We've got a bib.. Do you know who this is Mickey Mouse.? You got it. [, Charlsie ]. It has elevated levels of phthalates., Though not over Health. Canada'S limit Miriam is still concerned., I'm sure a lot of parents know these are like the best cause. All the food just ends up, and then they can pick it out and they put it right back in their mouth., That's right. And and the child is touching it and playing with it.. Yes, I was concerned about the bib. [ Charlsie ] Wow. Because of the phthalates. [ Charlsie ], And it's not just the bibs. Miriam has the same concerns with these dresses too.. My friend has that shirt. Your friend has this At her birthday she weared it. And who's this Elsa. This is another one that got flagged to us by our experts. [ Charlsie ]. In all, we put 6 ultra-fast fashion giants to the test. Zulily Boohoo and Fashion Nova's products didn't raise any red flags., But our lab tests found elevated levels of PFAs phthalates or heavy metals in products from Zaful, AliExpress and Shein. About 20 percent of our haul.. So why are companies adding all these toxins and endocrine disruptors to our clothes? Nobody has an excuse to say well, I just don't know how to tackle it. [, Charlsie, ], Joël Mertens knows they don't need to use them at all.. We learn a lot of things about the toxicity of --, of what we've been doing and it comes down to. Can we do it better Once something is flagged as problematic? What are my alternatives to this [ Charlsie ] He's with the Sustainable Apparel Coalition.? Really, if we're focused on reducing environmental impacts and harm, it really goes into the full manufacturing supply chain.. So I think Joel what you're saying is the manufacturers need to do a better job of checking in on how their clothes are being made.? If the only brand conversation with a manufacturer is on the price, then that's what the manufacturer is going to focus on., [, Charlsie ]. We share our findings with all six retailers.. Remember these quality issues, [ Charlsie ]. It'S got holes in it., Zaful apologized. For that defect. They and Boohoo say: customers can always ask for refunds., Shein and AliExpress, say they're working with their third-party suppliers to improve quality. Fashion Nova says they stand by the quality of their products and no comment from Zulily.. Only Shein, Zaful and AliExpress' items were flagged as toxic or concerning. All say: they've pulled the products from their Canadian sites while they continue to investigate. Zaful, says they're, recalling the clear tote and giving refunds to customers.. Why Miriam are companies still using these chemicals? It'S cheap.. It'S unfortunately cheap. There are alternatives that are safer., [, Charlsie ]. She says we need better regulation. One solution In California, where there are labelling, laws., Oh Lead and cadmium., Which is known to cause cancer and birth defects and other reproductive harm.. How do you feel about it being right on the tag? Do you think that that's a good marker for consumers, -No. [, Charlsie ], No okay., I'm not in favour of labelling. I'm in favour of not having lead and cadmium in this garment.? Not everybody reads: tags. Tags come off.. What about second-hand clothing? The tag also does not help the people who manufactured this garment, who are exposed to cadmium and lead.. I think we need to be protecting everybody., [, Charlsie, ], Joël agrees.. The best thing to do is to submit those to Health, Canada, who ultimately is responsible for reviewing the --, the results. [ Charlsie ]. Remember: we've been trying for weeks to get Health Canada on camera, to talk to us about our findings., But they still say no. Health. Canada won't talk to us.. Why are we letting this stuff in? Why aren't we making it here where we can regulate it And probably because it can be made cheaper somewhere else, Cheap, cheap, cheap., [, Charlsie, ]? Finally, Health Canada sent us a statement. As a result of our investigation. They say they'll follow up with some of the items we flagged.. Ultimately they say it's the companies who are responsible for making sure their products are safe. For people who may have an order from one of these companies practical advice for them to protect themselves. When you wash something the wash water goes through, the wastewater treatment, plant. Wastewater treatment plants deal with lots of different chemicals. It'll reduce your own exposure., But over the long term. That'S not a good enough solution because it just isn't protective enough. In the long term. No, I just don't want to buy it. [ Charlsie ] Advice, one of our younger sources already taken to heart. This shiny one -Uh-uh
Comments
Clara Li: They should do testing on Canadian in store clothing in another episode since stores like H and M, pink, American eagle, etc probably source their clothing from similar places as shein/aliexpress, just marked up.
Wendy H: This isn’t groundbreaking news - we’ve known for a long time that most synthetic/plastic-based clothing has toxins - not just fast fashion, but also expensive sportswear. Oeko-tex-certified, undyed or naturally dyed, natural and organic fibres are the best way around this, but not everyone can afford to purchase this way. The responsibility needs to be placed on the system, not just the consumer.
Sophia Pinsent: I’ve never bought from shein, zaful, etc, but I do shop a lot at winners, American eagle, H&M, you guys should do those brands next. That would be really interesting like the brick and mortar stores and the level of toxins in the clothes
snthbt: This makes me feel even more sad for the people working in these factories, being exposed to harmful substances on a daily basis
Tiffany Duong: Why doesn’t this have more views? Everyone shops at shein now!!!! It’s so popular and that means alot of people are affected by the toxins!!!!
A Real Truth Seeker: To be fair, you should really do the same tests for the more expensive (Target, Kmart etc) and even luxury brands.
dvharlinq: these fast fashions also dont pay workers a livable wage, and yet theyre forcing these workers to put dangerous chemicals in the products they make, i feel bad for the workers.
Vesislava Todorova: I've been a long user of SHEIN. After watching this report, I refunded my last order and closed the account. Thank you CBC news for making this investigation !
Olivia Green: They should test fabrics at the local fabric store for things too, it would be interesting to see if making your own clothes would be better
Adrienne F: Are the clothing from large corporations like Zara, H&M, Walmart tested when they are imported and held to a standard?
theonewhocomments: I'm way more concerned about walmart and local clothes than shein because while people do order online a lot, the sites mentioned in this video are less used than local stores like Ardene, h&m, Gap etc. A lot of people try shein once or twice and give up when they get really bad quality and their money is wasted. The clothes from walmart, ardene, etc reach a much wider population and we need a similar video and test for those. I'm even a bit suspicious as to why this video didn't mention a single US or Canada brand, even though many of them get their clothes made in the same sources.
Eva Murray: So how do we know? Even if I buy more expensive products, how do I know that there are no chemicals in them?
AdrianDX: AliExpress is a platform, not a merchant. It’s like saying stuff from eBay is toxic or w/e.
Jenn T: Love that Miriam Diamond states a few times that she is also VERY concerned about the people that are making these products. They are exposed over and over and over. It is a dam shame.
Fiona C: I don't even understand how SHEIN got so big. I only shopped there once and that's it. Everything felt weird to the touch and everything smelled like chemical, let alone the quality, literally nothing I ordered looked the same as on the website. People are out of their mind buying clothes from there seriously. How much poorly made cheap clothing do you need and for what purpose?
Mo K.: I’m not shocked. I’m handling more of people’s Shein hauls every day, and their clothes are invariably poorly packaged, so I get to smell the chemical stench of their wares more than most!
LMFAO: I would love if you guys do the same thing with luxury brands
C Raven: I'm really disappointed in Health Canada's response...they sound like they are totally trying to pass the buck onto the retailer. Yes, seller/manufacturer has a responsibility, but according to the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act, so does Health Canada. It is their duty to enforce the act if there are contraventions. I'd really love for Marketplace to follow up with Health Canada, so we can have confidence in the enforcement.
Paulie Waulie: Personally I buy one thing I know I will wear for years, rather than multiple things I will only wear for a year. When it comes to clothing and clothing waste, quality should always triumph quantity or cheapness.
Amy Edea: Thank you the Marketplace, I do shop a lot at Shein, after watching this video I deleted the App Store from all my electronics. Thanks
Karla4478: I'm so curious why bad things, such as junk foods and literal poisons, are cheaper and more affordable than healthy things like vegetables and clean fabrics. Doesn't make sense to me. Good things should be affordable, bad things should be costly.
Somewhere Upthere: As consumers we have to reuse MORE. Second hand is the highest form of recycling because the cost to natural resources has already been paid. We need to teach ourselves how to sew again, how to tailor, repair, modify....
InphaseOwl: I ordered 8 items from SHEIN 2 days ago and now I think I’m just gonna return everything. This is my first time ordering and to know that these clothes have chemicals that are so harmful, this is just disgusting. I think I rather spend more money buying some stuff from Ross, Marshall’s,depop, or thrift stores.
Ali: I’m in California where we have the prop 65 labels and it’s literally on all packaged food items, INSANE!! It’s on clothing, candles, receipts and furniture. So we’re being poisoned by everything constantly
Alexandra Delliou: I find it really disturbing and irresponsible that the interviewer would state how dangerous and toxic that little red bag is, and proceed to handing in out to children.
wendy nguyen: I also want to know the level of toxic chemicals in the more expensive brands, then compare them with these brands.
Madiha Aziz: Not to mention the immense environmental impact these fast fashion companies have had over the past decade! Majority of these clothes/items end up in the landfill or other dumps! I started buying from shein bit stopped last year after noticing how bad the quality truly is
CocoaBananas23: I would like to know what’s in Walmart, old navy and H&M clothes for sure since I shop at these stores more.
LeviAckerman: yes, thank you for tackling this.most of the 'cheaper' imports were distrusted back home too. i do remember reports of imported 12-22 YEARS old frozen beef/pork, tomatoes polished in petrol, coloured vegtables etc.. I'm halfway thru and i hope they would also tackle how shein and fashion nova would copy indie designers and copy their work for a waay cheaper products.
HappyWifeHappyLife: I ordered clothes from AliExpress about 7 years ago. They smelled absolutely horrible. Nothing like that fresh new clothing smell. Even back then I knew there was some weird chemicals on the clothes I ordered. They were also very cheaply made and all around just not worth it at all. Id rather buy name brand clothes at a thrift store if I couldn't afford expensive clothes.
Helloooooo am here: I have to say products from Zara and H&M smell of chemicals too, they should also be tested especially since more people buy from them than from the online cheap fast fashion
Femto: It's not just the toxic chemicals, Shein is also an awful company when it comes to knocking off other designers' work.
Cindyk0711: So insightful! I already am heavily opposed to fast fashion for its environmental and ethical cost, but the magnitude of the toxicity problem never appeared to me
Sophie at the Atelier Marketing Collective: Given the toxic chemicals found in clothing items that these retailers sell I'd also be wary of the makeup products being sold by these same retailers. If there is a lack of duty of care with one it stands to reason that it isn't just in one area of the business. The entire supply chain needs a serious rehaul.
Lane Atkinson: Thank you for covering this!! The exploited workers are paying the ultimate price for someone's temporary pleasure overseas, it's very wrong!!!
Janelle Scott: Just think about how much toxic waste is being created and dumped while the clothes are being made.
Kelly D: Wow, just wow... does no one have a conscience anymore? It seems almost everything we use or consume as humans are toxic... my question is how do we figure out if where we buy store bought clothing from tests or knows what its clothes are made of?
Stacy Russell: My daughter's learned the hard way with AliExpress. Bought some clothes thinking they scored a great deal. Most of the clothes didn't fit, other items had holes or the stitching came loose after one wash. Live & learn.
Ashley O'Gilvie: It's depressing to hear about how we can't even trust the things we eat or use.. I want to learn how to sew but fabric is expensive and a sewing machine is too. I would happily buy second hand especially since that would be supporting local stores but none are here in my country. Sighs
Still Knitting: I wish that this video would be trending so more people could see it
Mojojojo: I thought this was just going to repeat that fast fashion is bad for the environment, but y'all really did a great job presenting this. The laboratory testing as well as consumer interviews really made the point consumable for all audiences. Also great job picking apart multiple companies instead of just one.
Elle: That reminds me of the terrible toxic smell that overwhelms you when you get all into an Ardene store. My God it's sickening and overpowering. I can't imagine how toxic those items all are
peni: For everyone that's saying they wish Canada had warning labels like California/U.S does, we voted for this labeling. I think multiply, times before in was passed/enacted.
Kaitlyn Taylor Real Estate: Can anyone tell me if there's any lab testing from some of their makeup ? I don't think people realize how dangerous this is or they kind of forgot because of how cheap they are
A Real Truth Seeker: I actually bought a lot of Shein and most have actually been great… and their customer service has been fabulous as well… but woah about the chemicals….i cant Imagine those workers cutting sewing dealing with the materials in the factory…. makes me think twice now.
412 Music: UGH I just received my package from Shein today and all of their clothes still STINKS!!! had to return the package, it’s just too bad I had already washed one and had a few items left un-returnable. They need to be shut down.
B.G. Zeke: It seems the clothing of concern was mostly stuff that had plastic/shiny/rubbery sorts of materials in it. Do the chemicals also show for the more ‘fabric’ type items? Like the yoga pants, shorts, etc?
Alex: this is one reason why you should wash everything before you wear it, especially for kids or if you're pregnant, imo. it's also better to go for natural materials as much as possible.
Bobby Eapen: This needs to be known all throughout the western world!
Oshun365: That’s how they can make them so affordable. Cheap means you get a good deal but at the expense of who and what? Growing up my mom never shopped cheap. I received all my clothes from Macy and Dillards. I was taught quality over quantity at a young age and it’s been that way.
Esther Love: Strictly talking about the sewing quality, as a professional seamstress myself, I would know to never buy a $15 Rain coat. You're just asking for jmperfections. There is no way, that a coat; materials, hardwares, trims, and labor costs are worth that little. Imagine, minimum wage, which is approx. $15 per hour right now, and calculate. It takes a non-factory worker, at least 6-12 straight hours to make a coat, or even more depending on the detail. (Including lining) You pay cheap, you ask for cheap.
S H: Call out culture goes in hard for everything except overconsumption. Be happy with what you have and don't keep up with with trends. Fashion is what you make of it. Thank you for making this video
iheartkupid: Me and my mum bought a lot from SHEIN and even earlier I was wearing SHEIN clothing but after watching the video I panicked because of the chemicals and now I'm scared to put the clothes we bought from SHEIN on and my mum isn't aware of this so i have to inform here
Cassy cookie: I would add brands like Ardene! Same thing. Theres a extremely chemical smells as soon as you enter the stores.
Johanny Milord: My aunt have that same issue when it comes to ordering clothes from fashion nova, SHEIN and now savage fenty. She kept some of the clothes that fit her but the ones that doesn't fit her she returned them and she had to wait for days to get her money back. And ironically these fast fashion sites would get away from this. It's easier to buying clothes at a store instead of ordering it online. And I would never order fast fashion clothes that contains harmful chemicals from any fast fashion clothing stores.
Simply Wonderful: Are there home test kits available to check for lead and other disruptor chemicals? Shien etc are just a curated resellers. Often getting factory over run and trendy products selling in the mainland and pushing it overseas for a huge markup
Andrew Higgins: I worked for the technical standards and safety authority as an upholstered and stuffed articles inspector for the province of Ontario. The Ford government got rid of the regulation (O.reg 218) and our department 3 years ago…now there’s no oversight. We tired to get in to inspect Amazon, but the province told us to back off…I think the major online retailers can do whatever they like with no repercussions.
Laura: Thank you for bringing attention to this very important and overlooked issue. I’d like to see Health Canada take more responsibility in restricting these unregulated toxic products away. They affect not only the direct consumers but the country’s water supply and health costs.
starveil101: Honestly surprised lead and caladium are in fabrics ... Thought those where safe from harm. I am avoiding plastic clothes now and buying natural from second hand stores, but didn't think about PFAS or phthalates from some of the current things I'm still holding onto, or even my children's hand-me-downs . Question now is what to do with all of these clothes as a consumer. I thought about repurposing them but not sure now.
CM MC: I have had problems buying several things online. This happened so often over the last year, I quit buying anything made out of material. The odor is horrid! They smelled like jet fuel or diesel fuel. Each time I returned it or threw it away. Looking back, I should have returned all items but I found out how the return system is with Amazon and was appalled! Over 40% of items sold by Amazon go back. The way it is handled floored me so now, I buy only what I can't find in America where I live. Try buying headbands from America, you can't.
Letrice Allia: I order ONE time from Shein this past Spring. All the things I received was poor quality and did not look like the website. I was completely turned off by Shein. I usually go thrifting but I definitely did get sucked into those low prices. I’m sticking to what I know.
Ci: They seem to always target Asian brands. They should certainly do the same on Zara, H&M etc. I don't do fast fashion and tend to buy clothes made of natural fibers. Rather pay a bit of money for longer lasting items than buying several cheap items. The world is polluted enough.
Angel Destiny: Thank you so much for spreading awareness. Your journalism is excellent. It is so important for people to recognize that what they’re putting in their bodies everyday is severely affecting their health and that includes dangerous toxins in the textiles! Thank you
marambula: A decade ago I began thrifting for silks, wools, and linens. These days I iron a bit more but gotta say I love the way those fabrics feel and good to know i’m less likely to need a university chemical analysis lab to have some confidence in their safety.
GoyLand DeFree: The problem is their mentality to cut costs as much as possible without ever caring for ethics
Nativetalkz: I live in America and I wish we had proper who fought for consumers like you all do
Jenspiration: I read that this is also an issue for companies like Zara, H&M, ASOS plus Victoria’s secret has gotten lawsuits over it
Freckle Finance: I live in California and the warnings are on literally everything even at a doctors office.
Katie Charlton: This is why I’ve started to buy only secondhand goods and trying to keep my clothes as long as possible!
LovelyLouise DandG: NOW I WANT TO KNOW YOUR REVIEWS FOR ZARA, H&M, UNIQLO AND OTHER KNOWN BRANDS.
Mariams Adventure: So, why are US/EU/U.K. Authorities, allowing these products across the borders? Why allow them to reach innocent victims, when they are clearly toxic for our health, especially children? This was shocking to watch… thank you for opening our eyes and minds.
ThatLadyDray: As much as I love a good deal my spidey sense kept saying not to mess with these companies & I'm glad I listened. I knew something about their deals seemed off but I didn't think it'd be anything like this SMH.
Synchro Metanom: As someone with a chemical sensitivity I feel blessed, it's a way of navigating the toxicity of consumer products, I just can't use this stuff. They didn't even deal with the issue of fumigants on most of these things. On another level people need to realize that other nations are essentially at war with us, and these aren't just cheep clothes, they're weapons. The lead in kids clothing, girls clothing, creates cognitive impairment, reproductive impairment, it's not a coincidence.
Cat.Lady.: It's so hard bc there's so many of us that are poor and the environmentally friendly companies are so much more expensive. It's so unfortunate
alyx denison: Possible solution: canada adds a charge to these products upon arrival similar to how people pay duties, to cover the cost of testing. People should be allowed to purchase these products but they should have to pay extra upon arrival to have these products tested before they receive the products. This would equalize the cost of products making their prices less competitive while protecting Canadians from toxic chemicals. Canadians would become less inclined to purchase from these vendors as the extra charge they must pay is undesirable plus if Canadians are aware of the chemicals in these products they may choose to not expose themselves to it
Flora Dora: I remember a time when my mom only bought a new piece of clothing a few times a year, and each purchase was a small event… Most clothes were still made in Canada at the time
john lara: “As consumers we need to think of where our products come from” very ironic when the size charts are for Asian consumers primarily and give charts to show the difference
M L: When I was a teacher I used to inform my students about the chemicals used...formaldehyde is used to stiffen fabrics just to get the item to look pristine in store (leas likely to crease). Then it's got no more use.
ChoosyandFussy- By Bel Fakiyesi: Just wondering if you can sue company for not disclosing this kind of harsh chemical content to their products .
MandyLina123: I'm so disappointed as I love SHEIN and bought from them a few times, but will stop shopping there as this is concerning. Thanks Marketplace
Ofra Fuller: The other 3 companies should not be off the hook here. They create socio economic issues and their products are terrible for the environment. For those price points it's expected that there will be damages. Returning it will just have more harm to the environment. Just buy less and invest in quality so they last longer.
Sammy Lee: I actually avoid clothing with Acrylic after my mom told me it was toxic. So, I went on Boohoo and bought some sweaters that said they were polyester, but when I got them, they were labeled '100% Acrylic" in red on the tag. I immediately returned it and never bought from them again. So, you should also be careful about if the product matches the product you received.
NasD Cong: I noticed a change in the quality of clothes being sold at walmart and gabes. They used to make clothes predominantly cotton and polyester. Now we are seeing a higher percentage of rayon with a small percentage of spandex. Where in the world is the cotton?
kye carlin: Imagine how many of these chemicals workers are exposed to for such small wages.
Nisrine Kasmi: Damn , 90% of the clothes and bags I own are from Zara ! I never bought from Shein and AliExpress because I knew they use toxic chemicals but I thought that Zara is better than them !
BTSARMYFOREVER: Thank God I never bought clothes from these places. And some of these shops are not popular in India. I trust my local brand more and have been buying at the same shop for more than two decades. I have pretty sensitive skin and immediately break into a rash if something is wrong so yeah I am assured that my clothes don't have these toxic chemicals.
westabsupply ebay: Forever chemicals or phas are also used in Telefon, the same chemicals are used in food like microwavable popcorn bags on the inside of the bag to keep it from burning.
Rhonda Silver: You can always count on CBC marketplace!! Thank you!!
Chewi: 2:05 Also the prop 65 warning is everywhere in California. It's practically impossible to avoid. I'm desensitized to it. It doesn't seem serious because it's on everything.
Maybe it’s you: This was the first year I let my (15) daughter go school shopping for herself. I just gave her the money. I just asked her where she ordered her clothes from, she said Shein. so now it looks like I get to spend more money on clothes that I just don’t have right now. We just found out she needs surgery, our dog just had surgery and to top it all off we’re in the process of buying a house. To bad there wasn’t a way to see what’s in your clothes before you buy. Instead of sending them to a lab AFTER you buy.
Raisin d'elta: They're never as advertised. Look at the models in the stock photos. Normally you'd have a rotation of the same models but these sites just have stolen images that all look different, there's no brand cohesion.
Maimounatou Koumare: The ones being hurt the most are the poor because they are more likely to get cheaper clothes online.
Lana Gukina: I remember Zaful ones sent me a bunch of their clothes to take pictures for their blog, they were surprisingly good in quality to be honest, I wore the leggings for a while and one pair I still have
Past Substance: Commenting to get the algorithm to recommend this more to people. I think it's wrong to have Shein become so popular. People know cheap means poor quality but it is much worse than a few holes here and there.
Catriona Nicol: I don’t usually get stuff online from fast fashion places but I have that unicorn dress in a different colour from Amazon for my daughter. It would have been nice to know exactly what was wrong with it…..it’s like you started that bit but didn’t finish.
Pop Sugar Sprinkles: Product quality in general has decreased tremendously, while prices have increased, so consumers are faced with a difficult choice between affordable and cheaply made, and expensive and not worth the price due to the lower quality materials and manufacturing methods. I bet there are many things we use every day which are loaded with toxic chemicals. There should be stricter regulations but also better quality longer lasting materials which don't cost an arm and a leg. One way or another, greed rules the world, and our health is sacrificed as well as our wallet.
Kari: I never buy online, I love shopping in malls. I need to touch and see the quality of the clothes I buy
M S: Thanks marketplace. Due to toxins and forced child labour I think we need to go back to tbe days of Canadian clothes and seeing classes
Sandra Gibbs: I hope someone makes a website that lists clothing and the chemicals in them. We need a reference site to check first before we buy something.
Denise A: WOW! THIS IS CRAZYYYY..really changes my thoughts from buying from these online stores. It's not worth my health.