Debra Lynn Dadd

polyester fleece

QUESTION:

Hi Debra,I am curious about your opinion of fleece clothing. I am referring to the garden variety microfleece, not the greener, recycled six pack ring kind. Are there any health risks associated with it? How about children's sleepwear that has NOT been treated with flame retardands? (I understand that polyester is inherently flame resistant and does not require chemical treatment to pass regulations). I have taken all of my children's fleece pajamas out of circulation until I know for sure.
Thank you,
Jennifer Asadow

POSTED BY JENNIFER :: CONNECTICUT USA :: 01/02/2007 6:41 AM

DEBRA'S ANSWER:

I don't recommend polyester at all. While very little research has been done on the health effects of synthetic fibers such as polyester, still they are plastics and outgas. Some types of polyester fabrics, such as woven polyester-cotton sheets, always have formaldehyde finishes.

In addition, polyester can be irritating to the skin and cause skin rashes, particularly on children's delicate skin.

While polyester sleepwear is not the worst thing in the world, I'd provide cotton sleepwear for my children.

Debra :-)

COMMENTS:

I too am a bit concerned about our options. I see that you advise cotton over polyester. Unfortunately for children over nine months most cotton fabrics are treated with flame retardants. Which brings me to the question...

Which is worse? Flame Retardants? or Polyester?

How about cotton & polyester mixes? The ones that are more cotton than polyester.

Thank you!

COMMENT FROM DEBRA: Polyester and cotton/polyester fabrics are all treated with resins that emit formaldehyde. There are some pure cotton bedding items for children that are not treated. Here are some at Naturepedic.

POSTED BY ETHEL :: MASSACHUSETTS USA :: 09/07/2009 3:54 PM

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