Question 1

Can you work out in cotton?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can absolutely work out in cotton — and for many types of exercise it is a perfectly good choice. Cotton is soft, breathable, hypoallergenic, and does not trap odors the way polyester does. For low-to-moderate intensity activities like yoga, strength training, walking, and Pilates, cotton performs well and feels comfortable against the skin.

The main criticism of cotton is that it absorbs and holds moisture, which can make it feel heavy during intense cardio or long runs. However, newer blends that combine organic cotton with a small percentage of elastane or with merino wool address this while keeping the fabric predominantly natural. The key is matching the fabric to your activity level.

ONDU features activewear from brands that prove natural fibers can handle serious workouts — without relying on petroleum-based synthetics.

Question 2

What is the best fabric for yoga?

Accepted Answer

The best fabric for yoga needs to stretch with your body, stay in place during poses, and feel comfortable against your skin for extended periods. Organic cotton-elastane blends are a popular natural choice because they offer four-way stretch while remaining breathable and soft. Merino wool is another excellent option — it regulates temperature, resists odor, and has a natural elasticity that moves with you.

For hot yoga or more vigorous vinyasa flows, bamboo lyocell blends provide a cool, silky feel and wick moisture efficiently. The goal is to avoid stiff fabrics that restrict movement and synthetic fabrics that trap heat and odor, making your mat session less pleasant.

ONDU curates yoga-friendly activewear from brands like Reprise Activewear and Wolven that use natural and responsibly sourced fibers engineered for full range of motion.

Question 3

Do natural fabrics stretch enough for activewear?

Accepted Answer

Natural fibers on their own have varying degrees of stretch — wool and silk have natural elasticity, while cotton and linen are less stretchy in their pure form. However, when blended with a small percentage of elastane (typically 3–8%), natural fabrics gain excellent four-way stretch that rivals conventional synthetic activewear.

Merino wool is a standout because its crimped fiber structure provides inherent stretch and recovery without any synthetic additives. Brands are also innovating with knit constructions that maximize the natural give of cotton and bamboo fibers, creating leggings and tops that move freely with the body.

ONDU features activewear brands that have solved the stretch equation using predominantly natural fibers, proving you do not need to default to polyester or nylon to get performance-level flexibility.

Question 4

Can natural fabrics wick moisture like synthetics?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several natural fibers wick moisture as effectively as — or better than — synthetics. Merino wool is the best-known example; its fibers can absorb up to 30% of their weight in moisture vapor before feeling wet, and they actively transport sweat away from the skin to the outer surface where it evaporates. This is why merino has been used by outdoor athletes and mountaineers for decades.

Bamboo lyocell and Tencel also perform well, wicking moisture through their smooth, hydrophilic fiber structure. Even cotton, when knit into performance-weight fabrics and blended strategically, can move moisture far more effectively than the old "cotton kills" mantra suggests.

The key difference is that natural fibers manage moisture without the odor buildup that plagues polyester. ONDU features brands that harness these natural properties so you can stay dry and fresh without wearing plastic.

Question 5

What is the best natural fabric for running?

Accepted Answer

Merino wool is widely considered the best natural fabric for running. It wicks sweat efficiently, regulates temperature across a wide range of conditions, and naturally resists odor — which means you can wear the same shirt for multiple runs between washes. Lightweight merino (around 150 g/m²) feels surprisingly thin and cool, nothing like the heavy wool sweaters most people imagine.

For warmer climates, bamboo lyocell blends and lightweight organic cotton-elastane jerseys are strong alternatives. They offer a cooler hand feel and dry reasonably quickly after a sweaty session. The important thing is to avoid heavy, untreated pure cotton for long-distance or high-intensity running, as it absorbs too much water and can cause chafing.

ONDU features running-ready tops and shorts from brands like Icebreaker, Allbirds, and Vuori that prove natural fibers can keep pace with your training.

Question 6

Can natural fabrics truly be high-performance?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The idea that performance requires synthetics is a narrative driven largely by fast-fashion economics — polyester is cheap to produce, not inherently superior. Merino wool has been the fabric of choice for elite mountaineers, ultrarunners, and military operators for years precisely because it outperforms synthetics in temperature regulation, odor resistance, and comfort across multi-day use.

Recent innovations have pushed natural performance even further. Brands now engineer organic cotton and bamboo lyocell into knit structures with four-way stretch, quick-dry properties, and UPF sun protection. Alpaca and yak wool blends offer warmth-to-weight ratios that rival or beat synthetic insulation layers.

ONDU exists to spotlight these brands and prove that high-performance activewear does not require petroleum-based plastic on your skin. Every brand on our platform demonstrates that nature already engineered the best performance fibers.

Question 7

What is the best fabric for a sports bra?

Accepted Answer

A good sports bra fabric needs to offer support, stretch recovery, breathability, and comfort against sensitive skin. Organic cotton-elastane blends are ideal for low-to-medium impact activities because they are soft, breathable, and unlikely to cause irritation. For higher-impact workouts, merino wool blends provide excellent moisture management and stay fresher longer between washes.

Avoid sports bras made entirely from polyester or nylon, as these fabrics trap heat and odor in one of the sweatiest areas of the body. Many people experience rashes, acne, and irritation on their chest and underbust from synthetic sports bras — switching to natural fibers often resolves these issues.

ONDU features sports bras from brands like Organic Basics and Boody that combine natural fibers with enough elastane to deliver real support without compromising on skin health.

Question 8

Are natural-fabric leggings squat-proof?

Accepted Answer

Yes, well-made natural-fabric leggings can absolutely be squat-proof. The key factors are fabric weight, knit density, and the inclusion of elastane for recovery. A tightly knit organic cotton or bamboo lyocell fabric at 250–300 g/m² with 5–8% elastane will pass the squat test without becoming see-through, just like its synthetic counterpart.

The concern about opacity usually comes from ultra-thin, lightweight cotton leggings that were never designed for intense exercise. Performance-oriented natural-fabric brands engineer their leggings specifically for gym use, testing for opacity, stretch recovery, and durability under load.

ONDU features brands like Reprise Activewear and Wolven whose leggings are built to handle deep squats, lunges, and bends without compromising coverage. Always check product descriptions for fabric weight and opacity ratings if squat-proofing is a priority for you.

Question 9

Do natural fabrics smell less after a workout?

Accepted Answer

Yes, natural fabrics generally develop far less odor than synthetics after exercise. Polyester is notorious for retaining a persistent stench even after washing because odor-causing bacteria bind tightly to the hydrophobic plastic fibers. Natural fibers like merino wool, cotton, and bamboo are hydrophilic, meaning they absorb and release moisture in a way that gives bacteria less opportunity to thrive on the surface.

Merino wool is the clear champion in odor resistance — many athletes wear merino base layers for multiple consecutive days without noticeable smell. Bamboo lyocell also has natural antibacterial properties that reduce odor buildup. Even organic cotton, while it can hold moisture longer, does not develop the acrid, chemical-like smell that polyester does.

ONDU features activewear from brands that leverage these natural odor-fighting properties, so your gear stays fresher and requires fewer washes — which is also better for the planet.

Question 10

What is the best fabric for hot yoga?

Accepted Answer

Hot yoga classes typically reach 95–105°F with high humidity, so your fabric needs to handle extreme sweat while staying comfortable and non-restrictive. Bamboo lyocell is an outstanding choice for hot yoga because it feels cool to the touch, wicks moisture rapidly, and drapes smoothly against the body without clinging uncomfortably when wet.

Lightweight merino wool (130–150 g/m²) is another strong option — its thermoregulating properties work in both cold and hot environments, keeping you from overheating even in a heated studio. Avoid heavy cotton for hot yoga as it will absorb too much sweat and become weighty, but a lightweight organic cotton-elastane blend can still work for practitioners who prefer the feel of cotton.

ONDU carries hot-yoga-friendly options from brands like Wolven and Organic Basics that are designed to perform in high-heat, high-sweat environments using natural and responsibly sourced fibers.

Question 11

What toxic chemicals are found in baby and children's clothing?

Accepted Answer

Baby and children's clothing can contain a range of harmful chemicals including formaldehyde-based wrinkle-free finishes, azo dyes that release carcinogenic amines, heavy metals like lead and cadmium in prints and fasteners, flame retardants, and PFAS-based stain-resistant coatings. Fast fashion brands have been repeatedly flagged for unsafe chemical levels in kids' clothing, with investigative testing by CBC finding a Shein toddler jacket containing 20 times the safe level of lead.

Children are more vulnerable to chemical exposure than adults for several reasons. Their skin is thinner and more permeable, meaning chemicals transfer more easily into their bodies. They have a higher skin-to-body-weight ratio, so the same amount of chemical represents a larger dose. And young children engage in hand-to-mouth behavior, meaning chemicals on clothing can also be ingested.

Choosing GOTS-certified organic cotton or OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified clothing for children provides third-party assurance that harmful chemicals have been tested for and excluded. ONDU recommends brands with transparent supply chains and recognized certifications for all clothing that touches your child's skin.

Question 12

Are there flame retardants in children's clothing and are they safe?

Accepted Answer

Flame retardants have historically been added to children's sleepwear and some synthetic fabrics to meet flammability regulations. The most commonly used types include PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) and OPFRs (organophosphate flame retardants). Despite their widespread use, these chemicals only delay ignition by a matter of seconds, providing minimal real safety benefit while posing documented health risks.

PBDEs are known endocrine disruptors and neurotoxins that have been linked to developmental delays, reduced IQ, and thyroid dysfunction in children. OPFRs, which replaced PBDEs as the older chemicals were phased out, have shown similar health concerns in recent studies. Both types can migrate from fabric through direct skin contact and off-gassing, with children absorbing higher relative doses due to their smaller body size.

A safer approach to sleepwear flammability is to choose snug-fitting garments made from naturally flame-resistant fibers like merino wool, which self-extinguishes when a flame is removed. Organic cotton sleepwear in snug-fit designs also meets flammability standards without chemical additives. ONDU advocates for untreated natural fibers in all children's products.

Question 13

Why is organic bedding important for babies?

Accepted Answer

Babies spend 12 to 16 hours per day sleeping, making their bedding the textile they are exposed to most. Conventional crib sheets, mattress pads, and blankets can contain formaldehyde wrinkle-free finishes, synthetic dyes, flame retardants, and optical brighteners. Given that infants sleep with their faces pressed directly against these fabrics, breathing in any off-gassed chemicals throughout the night, the quality of bedding materials is a significant health consideration.

Organic baby bedding certified to GOTS or OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class I is tested for over 100 harmful substances at limits strict enough for infant safety. These certifications cover the entire supply chain from raw material to finished product, ensuring no harmful chemicals are introduced at any stage. Organic cotton and organic wool are the most common materials in certified baby bedding.

Investing in organic bedding for a baby's crib is one of the highest-impact choices parents can make to reduce chemical exposure during the most vulnerable period of development. The cost premium is modest compared to the cumulative hours of close contact. ONDU supports brands that meet these certification standards for the youngest and most vulnerable users.

Question 14

Do crib mattresses off-gas toxic chemicals?

Accepted Answer

Many conventional crib mattresses off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including flame retardants, plasticizers, and adhesives. Studies have measured elevated VOC levels in the breathing zone directly above new crib mattresses, which is particularly concerning because infants spend 12 to 16 hours per day sleeping with their faces close to the mattress surface. Foam mattresses, especially those made with polyurethane, are the most significant off-gassers.

Flame retardants applied to crib mattresses include OPFRs that can off-gas into the air and settle as dust on crib surfaces. Infants then inhale these particles or ingest them through hand-to-mouth contact. The waterproof vinyl or polyurethane covers on many crib mattresses can also release phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors.

Look for crib mattresses certified by GREENGUARD Gold, which tests for low chemical emissions, or choose mattresses made with organic cotton, natural latex, and wool. Organic wool is naturally flame-resistant and can replace chemical flame retardants entirely. Pairing a clean mattress with organic cotton sheets and a natural mattress protector creates a safer sleep environment for your baby.

Question 15

Is there lead in fast fashion children's clothing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, lead has been found at unsafe levels in fast fashion children's clothing. A notable investigation by CBC Marketplace tested children's garments from several ultra-fast fashion brands and found a Shein toddler jacket containing 20 times the acceptable limit of lead. Lead can be present in fabric dyes, printed graphics, metal snaps, zippers, and decorative elements.

Lead is a potent neurotoxin with no safe level of exposure for children. Even low levels can cause cognitive impairment, behavioral problems, and developmental delays. Children are at particular risk because they absorb a higher percentage of ingested lead than adults and frequently put clothing, zippers, and drawstrings in their mouths.

To protect your children, avoid ultra-fast fashion brands that lack transparent supply chains and third-party testing. Choose clothing certified to OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (Class I for babies) or GOTS, both of which test for lead and other heavy metals. Washing new clothes before wearing helps with some surface contaminants but does not remove lead that is integrated into the material itself.

Question 16

What is the safest fabric for baby sleepwear?

Accepted Answer

The safest fabrics for baby sleepwear are GOTS-certified organic cotton and untreated merino wool. Organic cotton is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, grown without synthetic pesticides and processed without formaldehyde, chlorine bleach, or synthetic dyes. When sewn in snug-fitting designs, organic cotton sleepwear meets flammability standards without needing chemical flame retardant treatments.

Merino wool is another excellent choice for baby sleepwear because it naturally regulates temperature, wicking moisture away when the baby is warm and providing insulation when cool. Merino is also naturally flame-resistant and self-extinguishes, which eliminates the need for any chemical flame retardant additives. Its fine fibers are soft enough for sensitive baby skin.

Avoid sleepwear made from polyester, treated cotton blends, or fabrics marketed as stain-resistant, as these are more likely to contain PFAS, formaldehyde, or flame retardant chemicals. Always look for GOTS or OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class I certification, which is the strictest level designed specifically for infant products. ONDU supports brands that meet these standards for peace of mind.

Question 17

Are crawling babies exposed to more microplastics from carpets and clothing?

Accepted Answer

Crawling babies face significantly higher microplastic exposure than adults for several reasons. They breathe air at floor level where heavier microplastic particles concentrate, they have direct skin contact with carpet and floor surfaces that harbor synthetic fibers, and their hand-to-mouth behavior means they ingest fibers picked up from surfaces. One study found that a crawling infant can inhale and ingest levels of microplastic and other particles that are up to four times higher per kilogram of body weight than an adult in the same room.

Synthetic baby clothing adds another layer. When a baby wearing polyester or nylon crawls, the friction between their clothing and the floor surface generates additional microfiber shedding from both the garment and the carpet. These freshly shed fibers are in the baby's immediate breathing zone.

Dressing babies in natural-fiber clothing and placing natural-fiber rugs or play mats on floors creates a cleaner crawling environment. Organic cotton, wool, and linen clothing and play surfaces do not generate persistent microplastic particles. Regular wet mopping of hard floors and using a HEPA-filter vacuum on carpets can further reduce floor-level microplastic concentrations.

Question 18

What clothing is safest to wear during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

During pregnancy, the body undergoes hormonal and physiological changes that can increase sensitivity to chemicals. Elevated body temperature and increased blood flow to the skin can enhance dermal absorption of chemicals from clothing. The developing fetus is vulnerable to endocrine-disrupting compounds that can cross the placental barrier, making the mother's chemical exposure directly relevant to fetal development.

Safe maternity clothing should be made from untreated natural fibers like organic cotton, Tencel, and merino wool. Avoid garments labeled stain-resistant, wrinkle-free, or treated with any chemical finish. Choose underwear and bras made from GOTS-certified organic cotton to minimize chemical contact with the most permeable skin areas. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification provides additional assurance that fabrics have been tested for harmful substances.

Wash all new maternity clothing before first wear, and avoid fabric softeners and scented laundry products that add unnecessary chemicals. ONDU's brands offer comfortable, stretchy natural-fiber options suitable for pregnancy, including Tencel leggings and organic cotton tops that accommodate a changing body without synthetic fabrics or chemical treatments.

Question 19

How does hand-to-mouth behavior increase chemical exposure from baby clothes?

Accepted Answer

Babies and toddlers routinely put their hands, sleeves, collars, and fabric edges in their mouths. This behavior creates an oral ingestion pathway for any chemicals present in their clothing. Lead in dyes or hardware, formaldehyde from wrinkle-free finishes, excess dye, and PFAS from stain-resistant coatings can all be transferred from fabric to mouth through sucking and chewing.

Studies on children's chemical exposure have found that the oral pathway can be as significant as dermal absorption for some chemicals. Young children who chew on clothing cuffs or suck on blanket edges receive repeated doses of any chemicals present. This is compounded by children's lower body weight, which means the same absolute dose has a proportionally larger biological effect.

For this reason, infant and toddler clothing should meet the strictest safety standards. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class I certification is specifically designed for products intended for babies and toddlers, testing for a comprehensive list of harmful substances at the most stringent limits. ONDU recommends this as the minimum standard for any textile that a young child will wear, sleep on, or put in their mouth.

Question 20

Why is baby skin more vulnerable to chemicals in clothing?

Accepted Answer

Infant skin is structurally different from adult skin in ways that increase chemical absorption. The outermost skin layer (stratum corneum) is thinner and less developed in babies, allowing chemicals to penetrate more easily. A baby's skin-to-body-weight ratio is approximately three times higher than an adult's, meaning the same amount of chemical exposure represents a proportionally larger dose relative to their body size.

Babies also have a less mature skin barrier with higher transepidermal water loss, which indicates gaps in the protective lipid layer that normally helps block chemical penetration. This is especially true for premature infants. Combined with hand-to-mouth behavior, where babies routinely suck on sleeves, collars, and fabric edges, both dermal and oral exposure routes are active.

These physiological differences mean that choosing chemical-free clothing for infants is not overcautious but medically prudent. Every garment that touches a baby's skin should be free from formaldehyde, PFAS, azo dyes, and flame retardants. ONDU recommends GOTS-certified and OEKO-TEX Class I products as the minimum standard for infant clothing and bedding.

Question 21

Does children's rain gear contain PFAS?

Accepted Answer

Most conventional children's rain jackets, rain pants, and rain boots use PFAS-based DWR coatings to achieve water repellency. Testing of children's outerwear by consumer advocacy groups has repeatedly found PFAS in products marketed to kids, including items from well-known family brands. Since children's rain gear is often brightly colored with graphic prints, it may also contain additional chemical treatments.

Children wearing PFAS-treated rain gear face exposure through skin contact, especially at wrists, necks, and faces where rain jackets contact skin directly. Children also touch their rain gear and then their mouths, creating an ingestion pathway. The combination of rain (which can increase chemical migration from fabric) and children's higher vulnerability makes PFAS in kids' rain gear a particular concern.

PFAS-free children's rain gear is available from brands that use fluorine-free DWR coatings or PU-laminated fabrics. Waxed cotton rain jackets for children are another natural option. When shopping, look for explicit PFAS-free or fluorine-free claims, not just general eco-friendly marketing. Protecting children from PFAS exposure in rain gear is especially important given their higher vulnerability.

Question 22

Do school uniforms contain harmful chemicals?

Accepted Answer

School uniforms frequently contain problematic chemicals because they are designed for durability and easy care. Stain-resistant finishes on khakis and polo shirts often use PFAS compounds. Wrinkle-free and permanent press treatments use formaldehyde resins. Synthetic fabrics in uniform pants and skirts shed microplastics. A 2022 study testing school uniforms from major retailers found PFAS in a significant percentage of items marketed as stain-resistant.

Children wear uniforms for 6 to 8 hours daily, five days a week, for the entire school year, creating prolonged and repeated chemical exposure. The combination of tight-fitting areas (waistbands, collars), physical activity during recess, and the heat of warm classrooms creates conditions that increase dermal absorption of fabric chemicals.

When buying school uniforms, avoid items marketed as stain-resistant, wrinkle-free, or permanent press. Choose 100% organic cotton options where available, and look for OEKO-TEX certification. If the school requires specific suppliers, contact the administration to advocate for certified uniform options. Washing uniforms before first wear and choosing items without chemical finishes are practical steps to reduce your child's exposure.

Question 23

How should you wash new baby clothes to remove chemicals?

Accepted Answer

All new baby clothing should be washed at least once, ideally twice, before the first wear. Use a fragrance-free, dye-free liquid detergent specifically formulated for babies. Wash in warm water (not hot, which can set some chemical finishes) and run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all residues are removed. Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets, which leave chemical coatings on fabric.

This pre-washing removes surface-level chemicals including excess dye, sizing agents, and free formaldehyde. However, as with adult clothing, bonded resins and PFAS treatments cannot be fully removed by washing. For this reason, choosing clothing that was never treated with these chemicals in the first place is more effective than trying to wash them out after the fact.

For maximum safety, choose GOTS-certified organic cotton or OEKO-TEX Class I certified baby clothing that starts chemical-free. Wash these items with other baby-only laundry to avoid cross-contamination from adult garments that may have different chemical treatments. ONDU recommends building a baby wardrobe around certified natural fibers so that pre-washing is a precaution rather than a necessity.

Question 24

Is wool naturally flame-resistant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, wool is one of the most naturally flame-resistant fibers available. It has a high ignition temperature of approximately 570-600 degrees Celsius, significantly higher than cotton or synthetic fibers. When exposed to flame, wool chars and self-extinguishes rather than melting or continuing to burn. It does not drip like synthetic fabrics, which is important because melting plastic droplets can cause severe burns.

This natural flame resistance means wool products can meet flammability standards without chemical flame retardant treatments. This is particularly valuable for children's sleepwear, bedding, and home textiles where flame retardant chemicals like PBDEs and OPFRs would otherwise be applied. Untreated merino wool sleepwear for babies and children provides flammability protection through fiber chemistry rather than added toxins.

Brands like Icebreaker use merino wool in layers that are naturally safe near heat sources without chemical treatments. For parents concerned about flame retardants in children's clothing, merino wool is an ideal alternative. ONDU highlights wool's natural flame resistance as one of many reasons to choose natural fibers over treated synthetics.

Question 25

What is ONDU?

Accepted Answer

ONDU is a curated product directory dedicated to natural-fabric clothing and home textiles. We help consumers discover activewear, loungewear, sleepwear, and bedding made primarily from natural fibers like merino wool, Tencel, organic cotton, silk, hemp, and alpaca. Our mission is to make it easy to find high-quality alternatives to the synthetic, plastic-based clothing that dominates the market today.

We are not a traditional retailer or marketplace. Instead, ONDU functions as a discovery platform that researches, reviews, and organizes the best natural-fiber products from carefully vetted brands. Each product on our site includes detailed fabric breakdowns, so you always know exactly what a garment is made from before you shop.

ONDU was created out of the belief that what you wear against your skin matters. We aim to be the most trusted resource for anyone looking to move away from synthetic fabrics and toward materials that are better for both personal health and the environment.

Question 26

How does ONDU choose which brands to feature?

Accepted Answer

ONDU selects brands through a rigorous vetting process focused on fabric composition, transparency, and ethical practices. The most important criterion is that a brand offers products made primarily from natural or plant-based fibers. We review the fiber content of every product and look for brands that consistently use materials like merino wool, Tencel, organic cotton, hemp, silk, and alpaca rather than relying on polyester or nylon as a base.

Beyond materials, we evaluate each brand's commitment to transparency. This includes publishing fiber content details, sourcing information, and manufacturing locations. We look for third-party certifications such as GOTS, OEKO-TEX, B Corp, and bluesign as indicators of verified standards. Brands that provide vague or misleading fabric claims are not featured on our platform.

We also consider product quality, brand reputation, and customer feedback. Our goal is to curate a collection that represents the best available options across activewear, loungewear, sleepwear, and bedding. Currently featured brands include Reprise Activewear, Organic Basics, Icebreaker, Pangaia, Mate the Label, and many more.

Question 27

Is ONDU a marketplace?

Accepted Answer

No, ONDU is not a marketplace. We are a curated product directory and discovery platform. This means we do not sell products directly, process payments, or handle shipping and returns. Instead, we research and organize the best natural-fabric products from vetted brands and provide direct links to each brand's own website where you can make your purchase.

This directory model has several advantages for consumers. You always buy directly from the brand, which means you get the brand's full customer service, return policy, and warranty coverage. It also means ONDU can remain editorially independent in our curation process since we are focused on recommending the best products rather than maximizing sales of our own inventory.

Think of ONDU as a trusted guide to the natural-fiber clothing landscape. We do the research so you do not have to spend hours reading labels and comparing brands. When you find something you like on ONDU, you click through to buy it directly from the brand that made it.

Question 28

What brands does ONDU feature?

Accepted Answer

ONDU features a growing collection of brands that are committed to natural-fiber products across activewear, loungewear, sleepwear, and bedding. Our current lineup includes Reprise Activewear for premium natural-fiber workout gear, Organic Basics for everyday essentials and activewear, Icebreaker for merino wool performance wear, and Pangaia for innovative material science. We also feature Mate the Label for organic cotton basics, Paka for alpaca-fiber apparel, and Vuori for versatile athleisure.

For more accessible price points, we carry Tentree with its commitment to planting trees with every purchase, Boody for bamboo-derived basics, Allbirds for natural-material footwear and apparel, and Promeed for silk pillowcases and sleep accessories. Boldwill and Wolven round out our collection with unique approaches to sustainable activewear and lifestyle apparel.

We are constantly evaluating new brands to add to our directory. Our team reviews dozens of emerging and established brands each month, selecting only those that meet our standards for natural fiber content, transparency, and ethical production. Check back regularly to discover new additions.

Question 29

Does ONDU sell products directly?

Accepted Answer

No, ONDU does not sell products directly. We operate as a curated product directory, which means our role is to discover, vet, and organize the best natural-fiber products available and then connect you directly with the brands that make them. When you find a product you want to purchase on ONDU, you will be directed to the brand's own website to complete your transaction.

This approach means your purchase is handled entirely by the brand, including payment processing, shipping, customer support, and returns. Each brand sets its own pricing, shipping policies, and return windows. We recommend reviewing the specific brand's policies before making a purchase so you know exactly what to expect.

By not selling directly, ONDU is able to maintain editorial independence in our curation. We choose brands based on quality and fabric standards rather than profit margins or inventory management considerations. Our focus is entirely on helping you find the best natural-fiber products, not on moving merchandise.

Question 30

What does ONDU mean?

Accepted Answer

ONDU is derived from the concept of "undulation," referring to the natural wave-like movement found throughout nature. Just as waves move through water, wind ripples through grass, and fibers are woven in flowing patterns, ONDU represents the natural rhythm and flow of materials that come from the earth. The name was chosen to reflect our commitment to natural fibers and the organic, flowing quality of materials like silk, wool, cotton, and linen.

The name also subtly nods to the idea of being "on" a journey toward more thoughtful choices about what we put on our bodies. It is a short, memorable word that feels both modern and grounded, much like the natural-fiber products we feature on our platform.

At its core, ONDU represents a return to what clothing was before the era of petroleum-based synthetics: materials that work in harmony with the body and the environment. Every brand and product we feature on the platform embodies this philosophy of natural movement and conscious material choice.

Frequently AskedQuestions

Fabrics

What is Tencel?

What is mulberry silk?

What are the best natural fabrics for sensitive skin?

Natural vs synthetic fabrics: what's the difference?

Tencel vs polyester: what's the difference?

What's the difference between organic and regular cotton?

Is bamboo fabric actually sustainable?

What is merino wool?

Tencel vs cotton: which is better?

What is alpaca wool?

What is momme weight in silk?

What are the different types of silk?

What is lyocell and how is it made?

Do fabric blends matter?

Hemp vs cotton: which is more sustainable?

What makes a fabric biodegradable?

What is hemp fabric?

What are the benefits of merino wool?

What is modal fabric?

What is linen fabric?

Health & Skin

Is polyester bad for your skin?

What are PFAS in clothing and why should you care?

What are microplastics and does your clothing shed them?

Can synthetic fabric cause acne and body breakouts?

Are there endocrine disruptors in your clothing?

What chemical finishes are applied to fabric and are they safe?

Does your skin absorb more chemicals during exercise?

Is nylon bad for your skin?

Why does polyester make you smell worse than natural fabrics?

Are synthetic fabrics safe to wear every day?

What is OEKO-TEX certification and what does it guarantee?

Can clothing cause skin allergies and contact dermatitis?

Is spandex (elastane/Lycra) bad for your health?

How does fabric choice affect your body temperature and sleep?

What chemicals are hiding in your activewear?

Fertility & Reproductive Health

Have microplastics been found in ovarian follicular fluid?

Which natural fabrics are best for protecting fertility?

Do PFAS chemicals in clothing affect fertility and IVF success?

Can switching underwear material actually improve fertility?

Can polyester underwear cause infertility in men?

Have microplastics been found in human semen and testes?

Are microplastics found in the placenta and umbilical cord blood?

Are microplastics contributing to the global decline in sperm count?

How does BPA in clothing affect fertility?

How do microplastics affect sperm motility and DNA integrity?

Does sweating increase chemical absorption from synthetic clothing?

How do microplastics damage ovarian granulosa cells?

Can phthalates in textiles increase miscarriage risk?

Does the antimony in polyester clothing mimic estrogen?

How do flame retardants in textiles affect thyroid function and fertility?

Can microplastic exposure affect the fertility of future generations?

How many microplastic particles does a person absorb each year?

Do OEKO-TEX and GOTS certifications ensure clothing is safe for fertility?

What is the nanoplastic Trojan horse effect on reproductive health?

How do electrostatic fields from polyester disrupt sperm production?

Microplastics

Have microplastics from clothing been found in the human body?

Have microplastics been found in placentas and are they a risk during pregnancy?

How many microplastics are released in a single wash load?

Does recycled polyester shed more microplastics than virgin polyester?

Are there microplastics in your indoor air from clothing?

What are the health effects of inhaling microfibers from clothing?

What are the best tips to reduce microplastic shedding in laundry?

How does the textile industry contribute to ocean pollution?

Does washing clothes put microplastics in your drinking water?

Does tumble drying increase microplastic shedding?

How do microplastics from clothing enter the food chain?

Do microplastic laundry filters actually work?

Do fleece jackets release more microplastics than other synthetics?

Why do synthetic gym clothes smell worse than natural fabrics?

How much microfiber pollution does your washing machine create per year?

Does nylon shed fewer microplastics than polyester?

Do new or old synthetic clothes shed more microplastics?

Does water temperature affect how many microplastics clothes release?

Do microfiber cleaning cloths shed plastic when you use them?

Chemical Safety

Frequently Asked
Questions