Test of 31 #Shein items found 25 (81%) exceeded #EU REACH limits.

High levels of #phthalates (in 18/22 items, up to 70× limit), #PFAS (9/11 items, up to 3,115×), and #HeavyMetals (cadmium up to 126 mg/kg, lead up to 2,110 mg/kg).

Risks: skin contact, ingestion (children), environmental contamination.

Shein says it removes flagged items; @greenpeace calls for stricter enforcement and platform liability.

https://greentechnologyinvestments.com/phthalates-pfas-and-heavy-metals-in-shein-products-81-of-garments-tested-exceed-european-limits/32218/

#health #polution

A really clear, thoughtful piece on obesogens — I found this genuinely worth reading and wanted to share it.

https://goodjuju.thegoodinside.com/toxins-obesogens

#phthalates #wellness #health #diet #inflammation #healthyliving

"Synthetic chemicals in food system creating health burden of $2.2tn a year, report finds

Scientists issue urgent warning about chemicals, found to cause cancer and infertility as well as harming environment"

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/dec/10/synthetic-chemicals-food-system-health-burden-report

#ecology #phthalates #bisphenols #pesticides #Pfas

10 Natural And Non-Toxic #FabricSofteners For #HealthyLaundry

July 10, 2024

"One of the often-overlooked avenues of exposure is our laundry process, where conventional fabric softeners can introduce an array of #SyntheticChemicals to our clothes—chemicals that come in direct contact with our skin.

Whether you’re looking to prioritize your health, protect the environment, or both, transitioning to natural and non-toxic fabric softeners is an excellent step forward. Here’s our list of 10 remarkable alternatives to soften your fabrics, leaving them comfortable and fragrant without compromising on your well-being or the planet’s health.

The Problem With Conventional Fabric Softeners

Conventional fabric softeners, whether they are liquid softeners or #DryerSheets, are formulated to deliver multiple effects, such as making clothes feel softer, reducing static cling, and imparting a pleasant fragrance. To achieve these outcomes, they contain a mixture of chemicals, many of which can potentially be harmful. Here’s how conventional softeners can contain allergens and preservatives:

Fragrance: One of the most notable features of fabric softeners is the scent they leave on clothes. The term “fragrance” on an ingredient label can be a composite of numerous chemicals, many of which are undisclosed due to trade secrets. Some of these chemicals, like #phthalates (used to prolong the life of the scent) or synthetic musks, can be allergenic or even toxic. For example, some individuals can develop allergic reactions to specific fragrance components like Limonene, Linalool, and more.

#Quats (Quaternary ammonium compounds): These are used in fabric softeners for their softening properties. They can coat the fabric to make it feel softer. However, some quats are known to be potential allergens and can be harmful to the respiratory and reproductive systems.

#Preservatives: To extend the shelf life of fabric softeners and prevent the growth of bacteria or mold, preservatives are added. Some common preservatives in fabric softeners include #isothiazolinones, which are known to be potent #SkinAllergens. These compounds can cause skin reactions in some people, especially with prolonged exposure.

Colors or Dyes: To make the product visually appealing, some fabric softeners might contain artificial colors. Some of these dyes can be allergenic to certain individuals and might contain impurities linked to health concerns.

Other ingredients: Depending on the brand and formulation, fabric softeners may contain other chemicals or ingredients that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Problematic Preservatives

#Isothiazolinones are known allergens found in many consumer products, including conventional liquid detergents. Notable isothiazolinones to avoid include:

benzisothiazolinone
méthylisothiazolinone
méthylchloroisothiazolinone
octylisothiazolinone

How Can You Make Your Clothes Soft Without Risk?

#WoolDryerBalls: They are cost-effective, reusable, and help soften clothes by lightly agitating them in the dryer. They can also smooth out clumps in pillow fillings.

Water Softening Systems: Installing one can alleviate the hardness of the water, which can make clothes feel softer after washing.

Use Natural & Non-Toxic Fabric Softeners

Learn more:
https://theconsciousinsider.com/natural-non-toxic-fabric-softeners/

#SolarPunkSunday #Laundry #SaferProducts #AnimalProducts #Wool #HouseholdProducts

Phthalates in Plastics Pose Growing Risk to Unborn Babies, Health Experts Warn

Scientists and healthcare professionals are increasingly concerned about the harmful effects of phthalates, a group of chemicals commonly found in plastics, on pregnant women and their unborn children. Phthalates, which make plastics stronger and more flexible, have been linked to a variety of healt... [More info]

A summary of phthalate effects on fetuses, including premature birth, ADHD, birth defects, breast cancer, and other effects:

https://futurism.com/neoscope/plastic-chemical-wreaking-havoc-unborn-babies

Links in the text provide additional details.

#Health #Pregnancy #Phthalates #Pollution