Can flame retardant chemicals in your home weaken your child's bones?

What's actually in it

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardants found in couch foam, mattresses, electronics, and carpet padding. They escape into household dust and are absorbed through skin contact and inhalation. Pregnant women transfer PBDEs to their babies through the placenta and later through breast milk.

Bone development is highly active during childhood and adolescence. The foundation for lifetime bone strength is laid during these years.

What the research says

A 2026 study in Int J Hyg Environ Health measured PBDE levels in pregnant women's blood and then assessed bone mineral density in their children during adolescence. Teens whose mothers had higher PBDE concentrations during pregnancy had lower bone mineral density.

The effect means these children are entering adulthood with weaker bones, which increases their risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life. PBDEs appear to interfere with thyroid hormones and vitamin D metabolism, both of which are critical for bone formation.

Since PBDEs have been phased out of new furniture, the biggest exposure comes from older couches, mattresses, and electronics. Replacing old foam furniture, vacuuming with a HEPA filter, and keeping dust levels low all reduce PBDE exposure in the home.