“Going green” is a popular buzz phrase these days and with good reason. Recent scientific research found hidden toxins in infant and children’s products. Children are especially susceptible to higher levels of exposure because they have smaller body mass, put items in their mouths, and have direct contact with bedding, flooring, and toys. Since children’s body and immune systems are still developing, they are more vulnerable to the potential risks these toxins present.
Dangerous Chemicals in Baby and Children’s Products
Popular bath and body products for infants and children contain dangerous chemicals.
In February 2007, a study sponsored by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and David Steinman, author of Safe Trip to Eden: Ten Steps to Save the Planet Earth from Global Warning Meltdown (Thunder Mouth Press, 2007), revealed a suspected cancer-causing chemical present in dozens of popular baby shampoos. 1,4 Dioxane is derived from petroleum and is also suspected of causing birth defects.
The journal Pediatrics [February 2008] reported that phthalates were found in infants’ blood. Phthalates are a reproductive toxin, causing damage to sexual organs as well as affecting future fertility. Phthalates are found in everyday baby products, including shampoo, lotion, and powder and occur when the ingredient, “fragrance,” is listed.
Environmental health groups in the United States and Canada warn of a dangerous chemical in many plastic baby bottle brands. Bisphenol A (BPA) leaches from plastic into the bottle’s contents when the bottles are heated. BPA has been linked to a variety of health issues including hormonal issues, miscarriage, breast cancer, and prostate cancer.
Disinfecting wipes, sprays, air fresheners, and room deodorizers contain chemicals that are known irritants to the eyes, mucous membranes, and central nervous system. They also contain pesticides. These products, however, are marketed for use in babies’ rooms and for cleaning their toys.
Just about anything that touches baby’s skin (or goes into baby’s mouth) should be scrutinized for its possible toxic properties. Diaper crème, baby wipes, laundry detergent, and even diapers can irritate or cause harm to baby.
Getting Rid of Toxic Chemicals in Baby’s Nursery
An excellent resource for safer children’s products is the Environmental Working Group’s Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, while Mommyfootprint is an informative blog written by a mother of four who zealously monitors and reports on “green” issues and healthy living. Numerous manufacturers and retail and online stores now offer healthier alternatives for children’s care as well as for home cleaning.
Experts say they don’t know what effect these chemicals will have when one is exposed incrementally over the long-term. More and more frequently, however, they are speaking out to inform consumers of the risks -- and possible future dangers -- these chemicals pose.
Mary Bernard - Mary Bernard is a freelance writer and editor. She is experienced with copy writing, writing for the Web and creating church youth ...
