Can flame retardants in children's pajamas and furniture affect brain development?
Possibly. A 2025 study found that organophosphate flame retardant exposure in early childhood was linked to altered chemical levels in the body in a Flemish birth cohort.
What's actually in it
Organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) are added to furniture foam, children's pajamas, car seats, and electronics. They migrate out of products into household dust, which children ingest by putting hands in their mouths. OPFRs are structurally similar to organophosphate pesticides and can affect the nervous system.
What the research says
A 2025 study in Environ Res measured OPFR exposure in young children from a Flemish birth cohort. The researchers found widespread exposure to multiple flame retardant chemicals, with levels that raise concerns about developmental effects, especially on the brain.
Choose furniture with natural latex or wool filling instead of polyurethane foam. Avoid products labeled "flame retardant" and wet mop floors regularly to reduce chemical-laden dust.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical exposure in childhood: A study on organophosphate flame retardants and plasticizers in a Flemish birth cohort. | Environ Res | 2025 |
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
Shop Non-Toxic Baby