Are Harmful Chemicals Lurking in Your Children's Clothing? How to Keep Them Safe

PFA's (Forever Chemicals, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Azo dyes)...

These harmful chemicals have been found in some of the most popular brands of children's clothing!

What are the Dangers of these Chemicals?

Health Risks of Chemicals in Clothing for Children

1. Developmental and Behavioral Impacts:

   • Exposure to a mother during pregnancy or early childhood can disrupt development.

     • May interfere with the development of the brain, leading to cognitive delays, lower IQ, and behavioral problems such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

   • Children may also be more susceptible to chemical exposures due to their smaller bodies

2. Immune System Effects:

   • May weaken the immune system, making children more vulnerable to infections, illnesses

   • Potential decreased antibody responses, which could make it harder for children to fight off diseases

3. Endocrine Disruption:

   • May disrupt the endocrine system, potentially leading to

     • Issues with growth, puberty, early puberty

     • Metabolism issues

     • Potentially lead to thyroid disease and other hormone release issues.

4. Cancer Risks:

   • Some of these chemicals have been associated with an increased risk of cancers, as well as other health problems like high cholesterol .

5. Reproductive Health:

   • Potential Fertility issues later in life, infertility risk

   • May result in altered sexual development in males

6. Asthma and Allergies

   • Potential Respiratory Issues:

     • Asthma

     • Allergic reactions

     • May act as irritants

How You Can Avoid These Dangerous Chemicals

& Our Favorite Kid-Safe Brands

This one is easy! AVOID the following (and if you really want that shirt another option):

First try to avoid fast fashion! Fast fashion clothing is typically...

• low quality

• has chemical laden fibers

• concerning labor standards (employees working 70 hour work weeks, potential child labor)

• causes major waste and landfill issues!

When shopping these are the fibers that you want to AVOID...

• Polyester

• Viscose

• Nylon

• Acrylic

• Spandex

• Microfibers

So... What can I buy & What Brands are Safe?

• 100% Cotton (Organic is best)

• Linen

• Bamboo

• Silk

• Hemp

• Cashmere

• Wool

  
  

Kid-Safe Brands

Hanna Andersson: Offers a wide range of options that any family would love! Their holiday themed pajamas and character favorite clothing will be a hit with your children. We love

Best For | Themed clothing, basics & More!

Size Range | NB-14Y

Price | $28–$78

Burt's Bees: Best budget option! They offer a wide range of basics and pajamas, their themed pajamas are a great! Here is one of our favorite holiday pajamas!

Best For | Matching pajamas, Basics

Size Range | NB–12Y

Price | $18–$32

Colored Organics: Great for basics!

Best For | Organic cotton essentials

Size Range | 0M–6Y

Price | $20–$6

Other Brands: Many brands are taking notice that organic, non-toxic clothing is important for families! You can find organic cotton clothing even at Costco now!

Other brands that are beginning to make change include, Carter's, like this super cute sweater that is organic cotton! Gap has an organic kid's clothing selection now and many more brands are joining this wave!

What to do if you really love that shirt that?

• Buy second hand!

  • Mercari

  • Facebook Marketplace

  • Poshmark

  • Thredup

    
    

  Conclusion

  Toxins in children's clothing pose significant risks to their health, especially during crucial stages of development. With the skin being your largest organ in your body the long-lasting and pervasive nature of these chemicals means that the effects of exposure may not be immediately apparent but can accumulate over time. Reducing exposure through practical steps, like purchasing organic clothing and second-hand only will help set up your child for greater protection from these toxins!

  Resources:

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

  • The EPA provides extensive resources on PFAS, including health advisories, research, and recommendations for reducing exposure. EPA PFAS Resources

• National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS):

  • The NIEHS offers a variety of educational materials on the health impacts of PFAS and ongoing research. NIEHS PFAS Information

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

  • The CDC provides scientific updates on PFAS exposure, its links to health problems, and how to reduce risks. CDC PFAS Information

• The Environmental Working Group (EWG):

  • EWG offers a range of reports and articles on PFAS, including an interactive map that shows areas where drinking water is contaminated with these chemicals. EWG PFAS Resources

• Consumer Reports:

  • Consumer Reports has conducted tests on PFAS in food, water, and products. Their site offers practical advice on how families can limit exposure. Consumer Reports on PFAS

• Kids Safe Chemical Act (KSCA):

  • An advocacy group working to raise awareness about the impact of chemicals like PFAS on children’s health. Kids Safe Chemicals Act