Tips for Minimizing Your Use of Vinyl (PVC)

from A Soft Landing

Phthalates were recently banned by the Consumer Product Safety Commission in products intended for children under the age of three.  In response, parents are are gaining a false sense of security when "phthalate-free PVC" is proudly displayed by manufacturers on many children's toys.  While it's a step in the right direction, we're still left to worry about with many other harmful chemicals common to PVC.  In a recent study conducted by the Center for Health, Environment and Justice (CHEJ), vinyl shower curtains alone were found to contain high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC's), organotins, lead, cadmium and other toxic metals.

Tips for Minimizing Exposure to PVC


1. PVC is commonly found in: baby bibs, teethers and toys, cling food wrap, pet toys, 99% of all inflatable toys, nap mats and shower curtains - just to name a few.

2. If you have vinyl flooring in your home, damp mopping it on a regular basis removes phthalates accumulated in the dust on the floor.  Direct sunlight, moisture and heat on vinyl tiles can cause it to release phthalates more quickly. And of course, choose non-vinyl options when replacing flooring.

3. Watch for "vinyl" in product descriptions, as it is commonly used as a nickname for PVC.  But keep in mind that the term "vinyl" may also be used to describe ethylene vinyl Acetate (EVA) and polyethylene Vinyl Acetate (PEVA).  Both of these plastics are considered to be safer alternative to PVC and are acceptable choices.

4. On a side note: food containers are not typically made with PVC (and thus no phthalates), so don't focus your effort in this area.

5. Encourage the makers of your favorite brands to use PVC alternatives when possible.

6. Check CHEJ's website for an extensive list of companies who have committed not to use PVC in their products. In the fifth and final step of our course, you'll learn how to do your own research to locate safer products for your family.

Get ready for some detective work!