Flame retardants are a class of chemical commonly found in furniture, carpet padding, insulation, electronics, baby products, building insulation, and vehicles.
Flame retardants were widely adopted in the 1970s, when in-home smoking was more prevalent and electronics frequently overheated. New research, however, shows that flame retardants are not very effective at slowing or preventing fires.
Flame retardants are known to be accumulating in humans and the environment.
There is evidence to suggest that these chemicals may disrupt brain development and thyroid function; affect learning, memory and attention; reduce IQ and sperm quality; and mimic estrogen. Residents may be exposed to flame retardants via dust that is emitted from upholstered furniture or via plastic electronic devices, such as remote controls.
Policy changes
San Francisco and the state of California banned the use of flame retardants in furniture and children’s products in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Several other states are currently following suit.
New upholstered furniture in California is now required to be free of flame retardants. However, residents who are shopping for second-hand furniture should check whether an item contains flame retardants. Look for a label on the underside of an item, or under detachable cushions.
Flame retardant labels are not required on children’s products.
To determine whether these products contain dangerous chemicals, visit the manufacturer’s website or call a customer service representative.
Limiting exposure with everyday actions
- Dust, vacuum, and mop home often--flame retardants and other toxic chemicals cling to dust particles
- Wash hands often and especially prior to eating
- Do not eat while using electronics, such as a TV remote or computer keyboard, which may be manufactured with flame retardants
- Cover holes or reupholster old furniture, pillows, and/or pads if foam cushions are exposed
Improving and replacing items
- Look for items that utilize down, wool, or polyester filings over foam
- Replace foam in furniture with flame retardance chemical-free foam
- Look for products with a TB117-2013 label AND call the manufacturer to ensure that the product is made without flame retardants
