Can organophosphate flame retardant chemicals in home products lower a child's IQ?

What's actually in it

Organophosphate esters (OPEs) replaced older brominated flame retardants in furniture, electronics, and building materials when those were restricted. OPEs are now in foam furniture cushions, TV and computer casings, carpets, and insulation. They leach into house dust. People absorb them through dust ingestion, skin contact, and breathing.

OPEs are neurotoxic because they inhibit acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme that clears nerve signals. During fetal and infant brain development, disrupting this enzyme interferes with how neurons form and connect. The brain's prefrontal cortex, which handles reasoning and problem-solving, is especially sensitive.

What the research says

The 2026 SEPAGES cohort study in Environ Res measured OPE metabolites in urine of pregnant women and their children at multiple time points, then tested children's IQ at age 3. Higher OPE exposure during pregnancy and in early childhood was linked to lower IQ scores at the assessment.

The associations were strongest for prenatal exposure, pointing to the fetal period as the critical window. Early childhood exposure also contributed, suggesting the brain remains vulnerable after birth.

The main OPE sources in homes are foam furniture and mattresses not covered by GREENGUARD-certified or CertiPUR-US certified products, older electronics, and carpets. Frequent HEPA vacuuming and hard floors instead of carpet reduce dust exposure. Natural fiber mattresses and furniture made with wool (which is naturally flame-resistant) avoid chemical treatments entirely.