Podcast Feature: In Focus with Dr. Rupa Wong -- The Hidden Toxins in Your Kids’ Clothes & Simple Swaps That Matter

Podcast Feature: In Focus with Dr. Rupa Wong -- The Hidden Toxins in Your Kids’ Clothes & Simple Swaps That Matter

Have you ever checked the label on your child’s clothing? Most parents pay close attention to food, water, and screen time – but few think about the chemicals that may be hiding in their kids’ clothes. In this episode of In Focus, Dr. Rupa Wong sits down with attorney-turned-entrepreneur Steffi Schmidt to discuss non-toxic children’s clothing, hidden chemicals in textiles, greenwashing, and the simple clothing swaps that can help parents make more informed choices without feeling overwhelmed.

STEFFI EXPLAINS: 

  • Why the European Union bans more than 1,300 clothing chemicals while the United States bans only 11
  • Why children’s clothing may be an overlooked source of chemical exposure
  • The truth about bamboo clothing, polyester, rayon, and other common fabrics
  • How to recognize greenwashing and what clothing labels actually mean
  • What certifications to look for when shopping for clothes
  • Why starting with underwear, socks, and everyday basics is one of the easiest first swaps
  • How her mother’s cancer diagnosis inspired her to leave law and build a mission-driven business

CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 00:32 Why Europe bans 1300 clothing chemicals (and the U.S. bans 11) 02:37 Why clothing may be an overlooked source of chemical exposure 04:28 Why Steffi left her legal career 06:42 How her mother’s cancer diagnosis changed everything 11:18 Is bamboo clothing actually better? 13:38 Organic cotton, polyester, rayon, and how to shop smarter 15:57 Why simple clothing swaps matter 18:46 Fast fashion, sustainability, and buying fewer, better clothes 23:23 Activewear, Lululemon, and raising informed kids 24:37 Greenwashing and making informed choices 26:06 Start with your basics: the easiest clothing swap 27:42 Non-toxic clothing for eczema and sensitive skin 29:50 Entrepreneurship, motherhood, and building a mission-driven business 35:36 Advice for moms considering a career pivot 37:33 Where to start if you want to make healthier clothing choices FOLLOW STEFFI:

FOLLOW STEFFI: Instagram:   / figforkids    

IN FOCUS WITH DR. RUPA WONG: 

You can learn more about Dr. Rupa Wong’s practice here: https://www.honolulueyeclinic.com

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