As you do your back to school shopping...be careful what pajamas you buy for your children. When I put Brooke in her PJ's I should be confident they keep her warm in the winter and cool in the summer. I never thought I would have to worry if they are disrupting her endocrine system!!! The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has regulations on sleepwear which are intended to prevent burns. Unfortunately it does not mention the safety of the flame retardants which a manufacturer can use or which ones specifically are used on each product.
The chemicals, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)which are used as flame retardants, have been linked to damage to the nervous and immune systems, reproductive systems,impairing thyroid function, hyperactivity, cancer and effecting developing brains. These chemicals have been banned in Europe since 2004. They are used in many items from upholstered furniture and mattresses to TV's and Computers. They are not used in sleepwear according to EWG, but no manufacturer discloses what chemicals are used. Confusing???? The regulations in the U.S. clearly need to be changed. Read more on what the Environmental Protection Agency is doing regarding this issue.
There are better options. I love Hanna Anderson Organic sleepwear. See the ad above to see their products. Costco also has a line of Kirkland Organic Sleepwear for kids. Before you throw out all your kids pj's make sure they are 100% cotton and have the "Wear Snug Fitting, Not Flame Resistant" in the label. These are the better option. It is always best to buy natural fibers like wool and organic cotton since cotton is the most pesticide saturated crop other than coffee.
If you are co-sleeping, avoid permanent press, wrinkle resistant, no-iron sheets because these have been treated with chemicals. This goes for stain resistant, water resistant, wrinkle-free clothes as well. Lastly, choose a natural, organic, or latex mattress for you and your child. Others are treated with these chemicals as well. Brooke has a Naturepedic, see the ad on the side for info. I hope you find chemical free sleepwear, pajamas, jammies, pj's on your back to school shopping trip!!!
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