Texas AG Investigates Hanes, Fruit of the Loom Over Chemicals in Children's Underwear

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into clothing manufacturers Hanes and Fruit of the Loom, citing concerns over potentially harmful chemicals in children's underwear.

Paxton announced the probe Tuesday, stating his office's commitment to protecting children. The investigation aims to gather information regarding the materials and manufacturing processes used for the brands' children's undergarments. The focus includes synthetic fabrics such as polyester, rayon, and spandex, which are common in apparel due to their cost-effectiveness and durability.

According to Paxton's office, synthetic fabrics can release microplastics, and certain chemicals used in textile production have raised health concerns. These substances include bisphenols, phthalates, parabens, and PFAS, often referred to as 'forever chemicals' because they persist in the environment. Some PFAS have been linked to health issues such as certain cancers, hormone disruption, and infertility.

"The goal of my investigation is to ensure that the necessities parents rely on are free from toxic chemicals and do not harm the health of kids," Paxton said.

This is not the first time Paxton has focused on chemicals in clothing this year. In April, his office initiated an investigation into Lululemon activewear for the potential presence of PFAS and whether the company's marketing was misleading. Lululemon stated at the time that PFAS had been phased out by early 2024 and were previously used only in limited water-repellent gear.

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Hanes has previously been mentioned in a California lawsuit concerning alleged bisphenol A (BPA) in polyester-and-spandex clothing. A 2023 California Proposition 65 notice, which requires warnings for products containing chemicals linked to cancer or reproductive harm, named Hanes along with other brands over allegations of BPA in synthetic leggings and athletic shorts.

Further complicating the issue, a proposed class-action lawsuit in 2023 alleged that The Children's Place school uniforms contained PFAS without proper warning. A federal judge dismissed the case in 2024, finding that the parents had not demonstrated false or misleading claims, though they retained the right to bring the case.

More recently, a September 2026 California notice alleged that boys' swim shirts sold by Ross Stores and manufactured by Volcom contained PFOA, a type of PFAS.

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These cases underscore the increasing scrutiny on clothing companies, particularly for products marketed to children or health-conscious consumers. Currently, there have been no findings that Hanes or Fruit of the Loom children's underwear is unsafe.

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Fruit of the Loom is owned by Berkshire Hathaway, and Hanes is owned by Gildan Activewear. Gildan has stated it will cooperate with the investigation and affirmed its commitment to strict manufacturing and sourcing standards that comply with industry guidelines on harmful chemicals. The company also said it remains dedicated to providing safe, high-quality products.

Paxton's investigation will seek to identify any chemicals present in the products and understand how the companies utilize them in their manufacturing and sourcing processes. Hanes and Fruit of the Loom have not yet responded to requests for comment.