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Early-Life Exposure to Formaldehyde through Clothing
Marta Herrero1,2, Neus González1,2, Joaquim Rovira1,2,3
1Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43201 Reus, Spain.
Toxics
|July 25, 2022
Summary
Formaldehyde was found in 20% of eco-friendly and conventional clothing, with higher levels in "eco" garments. Washing clothes before use is recommended to eliminate formaldehyde exposure risks for vulnerable groups.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Consumer Product Safety
- Textile Science
Background:
- Clothing can contain hazardous chemicals, including formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.
- Eco-friendly clothing, while popular, may still utilize toxic substances in production.
- Vulnerable populations like pregnant women, babies, and toddlers are at higher risk from chemical exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine formaldehyde levels in eco-friendly and conventional clothing for pregnant women, babies, and toddlers in Catalonia, Spain.
- To assess the impact of washing on formaldehyde reduction in textiles.
- To evaluate potential dermal exposure and health risks associated with formaldehyde in clothing for these groups.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of formaldehyde in 20% of clothing samples using gas chromatography.
- Comparison of formaldehyde levels in unwashed versus washed garments.
- Calculation of dermal exposure and risk assessment for pregnant women, babies, and toddlers.
Main Results:
- Formaldehyde detected in 20% of samples (mean 8.96 mg/kg), higher in eco-friendly than conventional clothing (10.4 vs. 8.23 mg/kg).
- Significant differences in formaldehyde levels were found in bras and panties for pregnant women.
- Washing significantly reduced or eliminated formaldehyde in all tested textile samples.
Conclusions:
- While formaldehyde levels and associated risks were below regulatory safety limits, its presence in clothing is concerning.
- Eco-friendly claims do not guarantee the absence of formaldehyde.
- Washing all new clothing before first use is a crucial, simple step to minimize formaldehyde exposure for consumers, especially vulnerable populations.
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