Living conditions were often cramped and overcrowded. Mill girls often lived in company-owned boardinghouses or dormitories, where they were subject to strict rules and regulations regarding behavior, dress, and personal conduct. They faced constant supervision and moral scrutiny, and any deviation from the expected norms could result in punishment or even dismissal.
The mill girls were vulnerable to various health risks, including accidents due to unguarded machinery, respiratory illnesses from inhaling lint and dust, and fatigue from the relentless work hours. Access to healthcare was limited, and they often had to rely on rudimentary medical care or folk remedies.
Despite these challenging circumstances, some mill girls found solace and support in the camaraderie and friendships they formed with other women in the mills. They also became part of a growing wave of social activism and labor reform movements, advocating for better working conditions, safer workplaces, and equitable treatment. Their collective actions and advocacy played a significant role in shaping labor laws and regulations in the United States.