why you should worry about flame retardant
Since the 1970s, flame retardant has been added as an ingredient in everything from mattresses to cables. We’ve learned how dangerous it can be, so it’s been removed from tons of items. However, it’s still not banned, and most companies still use it or a variation of it. Read on to learn about the danger of flame retardant and how to avoid it.
What is flame retardant?
Flame retardant is created to retard - or slow down - flames. It began being used in response to many items in homes catching fire. Flame retardant is an umbrella term for an entire class of chemicals. You might see it listed as chlorinated tris phosphate, brominated tris, tetrabromobisphenol A or TBBPA, Firemaster 550, and more. (When one version is banned, it is often reformulated and given a new name.)
What is fire retardant in our homes?
Fire retardant is in lots of baby products including nursing pillows, baby carriers, car seats, changing pads, high chairs, and toys. In our homes, fire retardant can often be found in furniture, like sofas, blinds, curtains, and carpet; it’s also in many electronics.
why is it concerning?
Research has proven that this category of chemicals can cause genetic mutations, cancer, hormone disruptions, neurological defects, obesity, and more. And although it’s not used as frequently as before, this chemical breaks down and accumulates into the air and into dust; flame retardant was found in dust in 75% of homes in the previously mentioned study. This fact is especially scary when you think about little ones, learning to crawl, touching dust then touching their mouths. After it’s ingested, like many harmful toxins, it accumulates in our bodies.
What can you do about it?
Be a conscious consumer. When buying big items, like sofas or carpet, do your research to find brands that avoid flame retardants.
Dust often. This can remove the broken down flame retardants from your home.
Don’t let kids eat off car seats. I know, it’s tough! But cars have much higher levels of flame retardant. If your kids need to eat in the car, place a blanket and container on their lap.
Buy meat and fatty foods carefully. Flame retardant permeates the air and soil and is stored in fat, so choosing the fatty meat wisely makes a difference.
Want to learn more about making your home less toxic and safer for your family? Book a non-toxic consultation today! You can also learn more by following me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.
Hi! I'm Gigi; I'm a postpartum doula, mother to three toddlers, including twins, and a wife to my high school sweetheart. I’m a #swiftie who loves cheesy novels.
As a former teacher, I bring realistic, evidence-based, and actionable advice (and LOTS of handouts.) I help families get the tools they need to prepare, so once baby arrives, they can focus on resting and bonding instead of researching or stressing. I’m here to streamline the newborn learning curve and help birth parents, partners, and other family members. There isn’t ONE way to have and raise a little human. I’m here to guide parents to find THEIR way so that they can thrive in the fourth trimester and beyond.
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