Are organophosphate chemicals in the home environment harmful to children?
Yes. Peer-reviewed research links prenatal exposure to these chemicals to negative impacts on child cognition and physical growth.
What's actually in it
Organophosphate esters are commonly used as flame retardants in household products. These chemicals do not stay inside the items they are added to. Instead, they escape into the air and dust in your home.
Because these chemicals are persistent, children are often exposed to them before they are even born. Once in the home environment, these substances can be inhaled or ingested through household dust, leading to ongoing exposure during critical periods of development.
What the research says
A 2026 study in Environ Pollut found that prenatal exposure to organophosphate ester flame retardants is linked to lower cognitive scores in children. This suggests that these chemicals may interfere with healthy brain development.
Physical growth is also at risk. According to a 2026 study in Environ Res, gestational exposure to these flame retardants is associated with changes in weight, height, and body mass index in children between the ages of 2 and 10 years.
The science is clear that these chemicals are not inert. They are active substances that can disrupt normal growth and development in children.
The research at a glance
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
Shop Non-Toxic Home