Do plastic changing mats release phthalates that babies can absorb through skin?

What's actually in it

Plastic changing mats are typically made from synthetic polymers that rely on plasticizers to stay soft and flexible. These additives are not chemically bound to the plastic. This means they can easily move out of the material and onto your baby's skin or into the air.

While many parents focus on what their baby eats, the skin is an active barrier that can absorb chemicals. Phthalates are a common class of chemicals used to make plastic soft. When a baby lies on a plastic mat, they are in direct, prolonged contact with these materials.

What the research says

While specific studies on changing mats are limited, a 2026 study in Environ Int highlights the presence of various plastic additives in products designed for baby skincare. This research confirms that infants are frequently exposed to chemical additives through products that touch their skin.

Other peer-reviewed research demonstrates that plastic products are not inert. For example, a 2026 study in Environ Sci Process Impacts shows how microplastics and chemical components release from plastic materials under heat and stress. Similarly, a 2026 study in Sci Total Environ confirms that physical contact and friction cause plastic materials to shed particles. When your baby moves on a changing mat, they create friction that can speed up the release of these chemicals directly onto their skin.