Current Issues

Raising children in a healthy environment is a goal of every parent. Unfortunately, that job is more difficult today because many commonly used products used in the home contain chemicals that are known to be toxic to children. The following information is excerpted from our pamphlet Protecting Your Child's Health:

1. Pesticides − Many household products, including no-pest strips, flea and tick controls, disinfectant sprays, indoor pest control sprays and lawn chemicals contain pesticides that are associated with very serious acute and chronic health problems, including neurological problems, birth defects and cancer. See our pesticide page.

2. Food − Pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables are another significant source of pesticide exposure for children, and many commercial dairy, poultry and meat products contain residues of artificial hormones and antibiotics which may interfere with a child's normal development and contribute to antibiotic resistance. See our food page.

3. Personal Care Products − Chemicals in the products we use to soften, scent, powder and clean our children's sensitive bodies have been associated with endocrine disruption and other health risks. Avoid antibacterial products, especially those containing triclosan. See our page on personal care products.

4. Cleaning Products − Many common household cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that can be inhaled and absorbed through the skin when used and then leave a toxic residue on surfaces where your child eats or plays. See our page on cleaning products, and our ChildSafe School program.

5. Air Fresheners and Candles − Most commercial air fresheners and deodorizers are made from a mixture of toxic chemicals, including petroleum distillates and phthalates that can trigger asthma attacks or exacerbate symptoms. Artificially-scented candles also contain many of these same harmful chemicals, and lead has been found in the wicks of some imported candles.

6. New Carpeting − Synthetic carpeting often contains formaldehyde, a known carcinogen and volatile organic chemical (VOC). Other VOCs are commonly found in carpet backing, padding and glues that emit toxic fumes which can last for weeks or months after installation. See our page on carpeting.

7. Paints and Stains − Paints and stains contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that create toxic fumes that can linger indoors for long periods of time. See our page on paints and stains.

8. Plastics − Many popular toys and home products (including dolls, plastic food wrap and shower curtains) are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), bearing the #3 recycling code. PVC is the most toxic plastic, from production to disposal, and contains chemicals that carry significant health risks when inhaled or ingested. Other plastics may leach chemicals into food. Do not microwave food or baby formula in plastic containers, as this increases the potential for leaching. Read more on our plastics page.

9. Art Supplies − Some art supplies contain substances that may pose a health risk to your child. Oil paints, pastels, permanent or scented markers, rubber cement, spray adhesives and pottery or ceramic supplies are among those that should be avoided.

10. Treated Wooden Playground Equipment and Outdoor Furniture − Wood treated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA) to prevent it from rotting was frequently used as construction material for playgrounds and outdoor furniture. Arsenic is a known human carcinogen, and can be absorbed through the skin or accidentally ingested when it is transferred to your child's hands. The soil around play equipment may be contaminated as well. See our page on treated wood.

11. Water - Virtually all water supplies are vulnerable to contamination; whether it be from pesticides, petroleum products, sewage or industrial pollution. If you are uncertain about the safety of your water, have it tested. Learn more about home water filters. Bottled water is not a good alternative as the quality of the water is unregulated and the plastic itself may leach chemicals. Read more about bottled water.

12. Cell Phones - Cell phones are not toys, and young children should not be permitted to play with them. Teach your children never to hold a cell phone against their heads, and to use the speaker setting whenever possible. See our page on cell phones for more information.

Resources

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that chemical-management policy in the United States be revised to protect children and pregnant women and to better protect other populations. Read their complete policy statement.