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Flame Retardants
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How many kinds of flame retardants are there?
There are hundreds of different types of Flame Retardants (FRs).
Flame Retardants are grouped into categories based on what chemicals they contain, like bromine, chlorine, phosphorus, nitrogen, metals, or boron. The older bromine-based versions, like PBDE, have been phased out because they are toxic to humans. But, they don’t break down easily, so still exist in our environment 40+ years later. And, the new versions are not healthier. They started to be added to furniture in the 1970’s in an attempt to reduce fire risk. Unfortunately, it’s now well-known that they don’t work well to suppress fires and they’re actually linked to many health problems. Worse, they make fumes from fires even more toxic than they would be without them.
Do flame retardants work?
They started to be added to furniture in the 1970’s in an attempt to reduce fire risk. Unfortunately, it’s now well-known that they don’t work well to suppress fires and they’re actually linked to many health problems. Worse, they make fumes from fires even more toxic than they would be without them.
Do all couches have flame retardants?
In couches made prior to 2010, 85% were found to contain Flame Retardants that are either known to be harmful, or haven’t been adequately tested.
You can test your own couch (or mattress) for free through Duke University to find out if it contains FRs, and if so, what types.
You can also check the tag on the bottom of your couch to see if it says “No added flame retardants” or not.
Where are flame retardants found in the home?
Besides couches, they are commonly added to mattress foams, curtains,
They’re also in building and construction materials, including in polystyrene (EPS) and polyurethane insulation. This is one area where sustainable building materials are good for the earth, but not necessarily for the humans living inside the homes.
How do flame retardants get into the body?
FRs easily dissociate from couches and carpets into house dust and into the air for inhalation or ingestion, and can even be absorbed right through the skin and into the bloodstream.
What are the health effects of flame retardants?
Flame Retardants are associated with hormone disruption, including thyroid dysfunction. This actually first came to light when cats exposed to high levels of FRs had high levels of hyperthyroidism!
FRs also have research showing they’re related to immune system disruption, increased cancer risk, neurologic dysfunction, eczema, and respiratory issues.
Sadly, babies and kids are more vulnerable for two reasons. First, moms exposed to FRs during pregnancy can have babies with fetal and child development issues. Second, because FRs are on upholstered surfaces and settle into dust, kids that engage in hand-to-mouth behavior, or spend more time on the floor, are more closely exposed.
How can I get rid of flame retardants in my house?
Weekly wet-dusting and using a HEPA vacuum are effective ways to reduce exposure, since flame retardants are relatively heavy molecules and settle on to the floor and carpets.
And, when it’s time to buy a new mattress or couch, opt for an FR-free one.
Flame Retardant-Free Design
